Unreachable Temperature in the Food Storage Room at MV. Pan Flower

Abstract

Refrigerator machines on board have an essential role in the process of storing foodstuffs so they last. The availability of fresh foodstuffs and the crew's comfort are essential on long voyages. Therefore, it is vital to check the condition of the components in the refrigerator engine. Thus, this study aimed to determine the factors, impacts, and efforts that need to be taken when there is an increase in the food storage space on board. The research method used in this study is qualitative, with the SHEL analysis method. The data sources for this study came from observations, literature studies, and interviews, while the researchers carried out sea practice from 10 June 2021 to 11 June 2022 on the MV. Pan Flower. The results showed that several factors were causing the rise in temperature in the food storage room, including non-compliance in carrying out the Plan Maintenance System, damage to the expansion valve components, dust-contaminated refrigerant cycles, too much dirt in the condenser, and a lack of communication between the crew. The impact of this damage is the disruption of refrigerator performance, the evaporator performance is not optimal, the temperature rises, the condenser performance is not optimal, and the occurrence of overtime to deal with the problem. Efforts are made to prevent such damage by maintaining according to the Plan Maintenance System, spraying the evaporator side, cleaning the condenser, checking the dryer filter, and always carrying out toolbox meetings. Thus, the operation of the cooling machine can be carried out correctly and reduce the risk of incidents that could endanger the ship and crew.