Frequently Asked Questions
How is fuel consumption measured?
Fuel consumption can be measured with a flowmeter. Modern engines calculates fuel consumption and can be read via industry interfaces like CAN-bus or Modbus. Blueflow Energy Management System™ supports all common communication standards and flowmeters.
The most common principals for fluid flow metering are:
– Differential meausing
– Direkt Measuring
– Positive displacement flowmeters
– Mass flowmeters
– Turbine flowmeters
What is fuel economy?
The fuel economy of an vessel is the fuel efficiency relationship between the distance traveled and the amount of fuel consumed by the vessel. Consumption can be expressed in terms of volume of fuel to travel a distance, or the distance travelled per unit volume of fuel consumed.
Which are the onboard sources of energy Blueflow measures?
Blueflow Energy Management System™ measures all energy sources onboard:
- Fuel consumption – Propulsion
- Fuel consumption – Auxiliary engines
- Fuel consumption – Boilers/heat energy
- Auxiliary engines – Produced electric energy
- Shore power/shore supply
How are Blueflow storing data in the Cloud?
The data saved in our cloud is far more secure than it is on your own hard drive. Our cloud servers are housed in warehouses offsite and away from employees, and they are heavily guarded. In addition, the data in those servers is encrypted, which makes hacking it a laborious, if not formidable, task for criminals. Whereas a malware infection on your home computer could expose all of your personal data to cybercrooks, and even leave your files vulnerable to ransomeware threats. In fact, we recommend storing files to a cloud service as a hedge against ransomware.
How long time does it take to install Blueflow Onboard™?
Installation time depends on which way fuel consumption should be measured. If flow meters should be installed the installation process takes longer time. If all data already is available the installation takes between 1-2 days.
What equipment is needed onboard?
Most often a Blueflow Bluebox™ will be installed to interface all onboard data. The Bluebox is then connected to a PC which collects all data and transfer it to our cloud servers using an any existing Internet connection. Additional screens can be installed where needed. Most often on the bridge and the engine room.
What kind of computer screen comes with a Blueflow installation?
We use only fully dimmable screens to avoid disturbance when operating in the dark. Our screens can also be equipped with touch functionality.
How can you provide fast support?
All installed Blueflow systems can be accessed safely remote directly from our office. This way quick support can be provided. We also perform software updates remote without disturbing your everday operational work.
Are there documented fuel saving results using Blueflow™?
Yes! We have customers who have documented fuel savings of up to 17%.
How to install Blueflow Energy Management System™?
It is common that the onboard crew install the system. Of course Blueflow crew can assist or perform the entire installation.
How can I access Blueflow Online™?
You just need a device with an Internet browser installed.
Do I have to use and install Blueflow Onboard™?
No. It is possible to just install a Blueflow computer that collects and transfers all data. Blueflow Online™ can then be used to access all vessel data from whereever you are..
Are there additional costs?
No, In the monthly subscription fee all support and software releases/updates are included.
Is support Included?
In the monthly subscription fee all support and software releases/updates are included.
What Is the average payback period of a Blueflow™ Installation?
The exact payback period depends on a number of different factors. Some of the most important factors for a successful energy project is participatory, results orientation and motivation. Action and follow-up are key factors. In a successful fuel saving project the system can be repaid in about 6 months.