Graviner MK5 Oil Mist Detector (OMD) – Complete Technical Guide, Maintenance, Troubleshooting, Alarm Functions & Marine Engine Safety System
Graviner MK5 Oil Mist Detector (OMD)
Manufacturer
Graviner Ltd. (Now Part of Kidde Fire Protection)
Country of Origin
United Kingdom (UK)
Product Type
Oil Mist Detection System (OMD)
Marine Application
Marine Diesel Engine Crankcase Monitoring & Explosion Prevention System
Product Introduction
The Graviner MK5 Oil Mist Detector is one of the most respected crankcase safety monitoring systems ever installed on marine diesel engines. Designed to continuously monitor oil mist concentration inside engine crankcases, the MK5 provides critical early warning of dangerous engine conditions before serious mechanical failures occur.
Overheated bearings, lubrication failures, and abnormal friction can generate oil mist within the crankcase. If left undetected, these conditions may result in catastrophic engine damage or even crankcase explosions.
The Graviner MK5 was specifically developed to provide reliable, continuous monitoring and remains in service onboard many vessels around the world.
Original Product Image
The image above shows an actual Graviner MK5 Oil Mist Detector supplied by SM MARINE SERVICE™, complete with mounting brackets, control unit, and connection accessories.
What Is a Graviner MK5 Oil Mist Detector?
The Graviner MK5 is an electronic oil mist detection system designed to monitor the atmosphere inside marine diesel engine crankcases.
Its main purpose is to:
- Detect oil mist formation
- Monitor crankcase conditions
- Provide early warning alarms
- Protect engines from severe damage
- Help prevent crankcase explosions
The system continuously samples crankcase air and measures oil mist concentration using optical sensing technology.
Graviner MK5 System Images
How the Graviner MK5 Works
The MK5 continuously extracts air samples from engine crankcase compartments.
These samples pass through an optical measuring chamber where oil mist particles are detected and analyzed.
The detector continuously compares measured values against preset alarm limits.
When abnormal oil mist levels are detected:
- The detector identifies the condition.
- Alarm thresholds are exceeded.
- Visual and audible alarms activate.
- Engineers are alerted immediately.
- Corrective action can be taken before dangerous conditions develop.
This monitoring process significantly improves engine safety and reliability.
Main Features
Continuous Oil Mist Monitoring
Provides around-the-clock engine protection.
Early Warning Detection
Detects abnormal engine conditions before major failures occur.
Optical Measurement Technology
Provides reliable oil mist concentration analysis.
Compact Marine Design
Suitable for installation in marine engine rooms.
Alarm Monitoring System
Provides clear alarm indication and system status.
Proven Reliability
Successfully installed on thousands of vessels worldwide.
Long Operational Life
Engineered for continuous marine service.
Product & System Images
Main Components
1. MK5 Monitoring Unit
The central processing and alarm device.
Functions
- Oil mist monitoring
- Alarm generation
- System diagnostics
- Sensor management
2. Optical Measuring Chamber
Measures oil mist concentration.
Functions
- Particle detection
- Optical analysis
3. Sampling System
Provides continuous air sampling.
Functions
- Air extraction
- Sample transport
4. Alarm Circuitry
Generates alarm outputs.
Functions
- Visual alarms
- Audible alarms
- Remote alarm transmission
5. Mounting Assembly
Supports secure installation.
Functions
- Equipment mounting
- Vibration resistance
Marine Applications
The Graviner MK5 is widely used onboard:
Main Propulsion Engines
- MAN B&W Engines
- Sulzer Engines
- Wärtsilä Engines
- Mitsubishi Engines
Auxiliary Engines
- Diesel Generators
- Emergency Generators
Vessel Types
- Container Ships
- Bulk Carriers
- Oil Tankers
- Chemical Tankers
- Offshore Support Vessels
- Ro-Ro Ships
Its role is critical in maintaining engine safety and compliance with marine regulations.
Marine Installation Images
Alarm Indications
Typical Graviner MK5 indications include:
Normal Operation
System operating within safe limits.
Alarm Condition
Oil mist concentration exceeds preset alarm level.
Sensor Fault
Internal sensor malfunction detected.
Sampling Fault
Air sampling system problem detected.
Power Supply Fault
Power interruption or voltage issue.
System Failure
Internal diagnostic fault condition.
Common Problems & Troubleshooting
High Oil Mist Alarm
Possible Causes
- Bearing overheating
- Lubrication failure
- Excessive friction
- Internal engine damage
Corrective Actions
- Reduce engine load
- Inspect bearing temperatures
- Verify lubrication system operation
- Follow engine manufacturer's procedures
Sampling Failure
Possible Causes
- Blocked sampling line
- Airflow restriction
- Internal contamination
Corrective Actions
- Clean sampling system
- Inspect tubing
- Verify airflow
Sensor Fault
Possible Causes
- Optical contamination
- Sensor damage
- Electronic malfunction
Corrective Actions
- Clean optical chamber
- Test sensor
- Replace faulty components
False Alarms
Possible Causes
- Dirty measuring chamber
- Calibration drift
- Electrical interference
Corrective Actions
- Clean measuring chamber
- Verify calibration
- Inspect electrical grounding
Maintenance Tips
Daily Checks
- Verify normal operation
- Check alarm indicators
Weekly Checks
- Inspect sampling system
- Verify airflow
Monthly Checks
- Test alarm functionality
- Inspect optical chamber
Quarterly Maintenance
- Clean optical components
- Check electrical connections
Annual Maintenance
- Full operational test
- Calibration verification
- Replace worn parts if necessary
Maintenance Images
Available Stock From SM MARINE SERVICE™
SM MARINE SERVICE™ supplies Graviner MK5 Oil Mist Detectors in:
- Used Condition
- Refurbished Condition
- Reconditioned Condition
Available services include:
- Supply of complete units
- Spare parts sourcing
- Technical support
- Worldwide shipping
All available units can be tested prior to delivery depending on stock availability.
Why Ships Still Use Graviner MK5
Despite newer technologies, many vessels continue using the Graviner MK5 because of:
- Proven UK engineering
- Reliable operation
- Simple maintenance
- Accurate oil mist monitoring
- Long service life
- Global spare parts availability
- Strong safety record
The MK5 remains a trusted engine protection device in the marine industry.
Frequently Asked Questions (FAQ)
What is the purpose of the Graviner MK5?
It continuously monitors oil mist concentration inside marine diesel engine crankcases and provides early warning of dangerous engine conditions.
Why is oil mist detection important?
Oil mist accumulation can lead to crankcase explosions and severe engine damage.
Is the MK5 still used onboard ships?
Yes. Many vessels continue to operate Graviner MK5 systems successfully.
Does the MK5 require calibration?
Periodic calibration verification and maintenance are recommended.
Can spare parts still be supplied?
Yes. Spare parts and replacement units may still be sourced through marine equipment suppliers.
Short Product Description
The Graviner MK5 Oil Mist Detector is a marine crankcase monitoring and engine protection system developed in the United Kingdom. Designed to continuously detect oil mist concentration within diesel engine crankcases, the MK5 provides early warning of dangerous operating conditions and helps prevent crankcase explosions. Its proven reliability and robust marine design have made it a trusted safety system on vessels worldwide.
Assembly Details
Complete System Assembly Includes
1. Monitoring Unit
- Display section
- Alarm processing module
2. Optical Measuring Chamber
- Oil mist sensing components
- Optical analysis system
3. Sampling Assembly
- Air sampling mechanism
- Sample transport system
4. Alarm Module
- Alarm outputs
- Monitoring relays
5. Power Supply Section
- Internal regulation circuitry
- Protection circuits
6. Mounting Hardware
- Brackets
- Installation accessories
7. Connection Interfaces
- Signal connections
- External alarm integration
SM MARINE SERVICE™
Marine Automation & Navigation Equipment Supplier
Available Condition:
• New Equipment
• Used Equipment
• Refurbished Equipment
• Reconditioned Equipment
Stock Location:
• Bangladesh
• China
Services:
• Worldwide Shipping
• Technical Support
• Spare Parts Supply
• Marine Equipment Sourcing
Contact Information
SM MARINE SERVICE™
Samir Market, DT Road, Pahartali, beside CDA Market, Chattogram, Bangladesh
Mobile / WhatsApp / Viber: +88 01818 929292
Email: info@smmarineservice.com
Website: www.smmarineservice.com