What Is a Bilge and What Is a Bilge Pump Used For?
The bilge refers to the lowest part of a ship, located below the engine and boiler rooms and beneath the cargo deck. This area collects water that leaks into the ship as well as oils and other liquids from the engine and boiler rooms. All waste collected in the bilge is pumped into a storage tank using a bilge pump. The collected waste is then transferred to specialized barges at port for proper disposal. Bilge water is separated through chemical and physical processes, treated, and released back into the sea free of contaminants. Solid waste is usually incinerated. Bilge pumps ensure that all collected waste is safely removed and chemically treated before disposal. Releasing untreated bilge water directly into the sea is prohibited by law, and ships violating this rule may be fined or detained until compliance is ensured.
Bilge Disposal Regulations
Failure to follow bilge disposal regulations can result in ships being detained at ports and fined. Beyond financial penalties, the biggest harm is marine pollution. Releasing untreated bilge waste into the sea is a major environmental concern. Regulations prohibit the direct or indirect discharge of bilge waste into the marine environment. Ships must transfer waste to waste reception facilities or waste collection vessels, temporarily store it, and ensure that it is free from all harmful substances. Bilge pumps play a critical role in this process, acting as a key link between waste collection and disposal.
What Is a Bilge Pump?
As mentioned, the bilge is the lowest part of the ship where leaked water and oils accumulate. A bilge pump is a type of pump used on ships, yachts, and fishing boats to remove collected water and oil. Bilge pumps are essential for both routine operation and emergency situations. During maintenance or cleaning in the engine room, water or other liquids may enter the bilge wells, and the bilge pump is used to remove them. Bilge pumps are designed to manage water accumulation and ensure the safety and proper operation of the vessel. Most bilge pumps on ships are either piston-type or centrifugal pumps. They are installed below sea level, and the size and type of the pump are selected based on the ship’s dimensions.
How Does a Bilge Pump Work?
Water entering the ship is removed using the bilge pump. It is recommended to have at least two bilge pumps on board: a smaller one for regular water removal and a larger one for emergency situations. The operating principle of a bilge pump can be summarized as follows:
1. Liquid enters the pump at the center of the impeller and is pushed outward between the impeller blades.
2. The continuous rotation of the impeller increases the liquid’s velocity.
3. The high-speed liquid enters the diffuser, where its kinetic energy is converted into pressure.
4. The pressurized liquid is discharged through the outlet.
5. This process allows bilge waste to be sucked from the bilge area and pumped out efficiently.
How to Connect an Automatic Bilge Pump
In addition to manual bilge pumps, there are automatic bilge pumps. These pumps use a float switch to operate automatically. As water in the bilge rises, the float rises and triggers the switch, starting the pump. When the water level drops, the float lowers and breaks the circuit, stopping the pump.
How to Operate a Bilge Pump
To operate a bilge pump correctly:
1. Open the suction valve before starting the pump.
2. Ensure the discharge valve is closed while opening the suction valve.
3. Start the preparation unit on the suction line and turn on the motor.
4. Slowly open the discharge valve.
5. Adjust the flow rate using the suction valve.
6. When stopping the pump, first turn off the motor, then close both the discharge and suction valves.
This process ensures safe and efficient removal of bilge water, protecting both the vessel and the marine environment.