Engine monitoring device targets rising costs

Engine monitoring specialist CM Technologies (CMT) is highlighting its PREMETX diesel performance analyser as shipping faces higher bunker costs, ageing vessels and tighter emissions requirements.

The portable device measures cylinder pressure during engine operation, helping crews identify combustion issues and improve machinery efficiency.

With bunker prices reported to have risen 76% since the US war on Iran, while vessels take longer routes to avoid conflict zones, CMT says detailed engine performance data can help operators control fuel consumption and associated emissions costs.

“Shipowners cannot control the carbon price, and they have limited control over the price of bunker fuel, but they can investigate whether their ageing ships and engines are running as efficiently as they can,” said David Fuhlbrügge, joint managing director of CMT.

The PREMETX uses a Kistler PiezoSMART pressure sensor to capture engine pressure data, enabling engineers to examine combustion and identify anomalies. Measurements can be uploaded to CMT’s browser-based PREMET Cloud, while its Fleet Manager tool allows operators to compare performance across sister engines and fleets.

CMT says monitoring is becoming increasingly important as shipping faces additional carbon-related requirements. Shipping is included in the EU Emissions Trading System, while methane and nitrous oxide were added to the scheme in 2026. FuelEU Maritime has also entered its first verification period, alongside continuing Carbon Intensity Indicator requirements for ships of 5,000gt and above.

“Small problems result in significant increases in specific fuel oil consumption and spikes in carbon emissions,” Fuhlbrügge said. “But if crews have reliable cylinder pressure and combustion data, they can make the necessary adjustments to reduce emissions and energy losses.”

The PREMETX can also incorporate an acoustic emission sensor to analyse fuel-injection processes without penetrating high-pressure fuel lines. Engineers can use the data to identify injection timing deviations, late combustion and leaking injectors.

Fuhlbrügge said trending measurements over time was crucial because individual readings provide only a limited picture of engine performance.

CMT says more than 200 companies currently operate its latest-generation PREMETX, with some shipping companies using up to 50 devices.