Reviewing experimental and theoretical efforts and key findings regarding hydrodynamic journal bearing geometry

Nader. S. Shokry

DOI NO. https://doi.org/10.59660/48709 Received 05/01/2024, Revised 21/02/2024, Acceptance 11/03/2024, Available online and Published 01/07/2024

Abstract

Journal bearing operation particularly in regard to marine applications is significantly affected by the performance of the most critical operational factors. Specifically, the lubricating oil film within journal bearing is so often than not subject to hazardous deterioration and ultimate failure in real operating conditions. Considering such fact, the current study is intended to carry out a literature survey regarding the efforts towards enhanced journal bearing performance based on proper selection of geometrical design for journal bearing. The aggregated data were thoroughly analyzed and assessed utilizing experimental, theoretical as well as numerical means. The outcomes derived from the conducted review represent firm grounds for carrying out extensive modifications into journal bearing design for marine applications. Further, such data will possibly be employed in future research investigations to extend the capability of journal bearing and its functions to attain the most possible enhanced performance in actual operating conditions. Apparently, the vast majority of both experimental and theoretical studies into journal bearing geometrical designs for enhanced performance, 66 in all, have been focused on surface texture accounting for 26.67 % (29 research studies) and 32.43 % (33 research studies) of the total investigations under study respectively. Regarding the experimental studies, realizing promoted performance of lubricating oil film by working on pressure profile has evidently obtained the largest contribution representing 35.5% of the overall bulk of the reviewed efforts, Figure 6.

Examining the influence of global terminal operators on the performance of container terminals via privatization strategies in the maritime sector

Mohamed Shendy

DOI NO. https://doi.org/10.59660/48707 Received 11/11/2023, Revised 03/01/2024, Acceptance 05/02/2024, Available online and Published 01/07/2024

Abstract

This research navigates the evolving of global trade through an exploration of the strategic evolution of container terminals, with a specific focus on the integral role played by Global Terminal Operators (GTOs) amid prevailing privatization trends. Recognizing container terminals as critical nodes within the maritime supply chain, the study employs a comprehensive approach anchored in SWOT analysis to uncover the nuanced consequences of privatization, accentuating the collaborative influence exerted by GTOs. The research is dedicated to unraveling the intricate dynamics that shape container terminal performance, with a particular emphasis on operational efficiency, financial sustainability, administrative processes, and infrastructure development. In the era of heightened global economic interconnectivity, the study underscores the paramount importance of understanding the implications of privatization strategies. By providing nuanced insights into the strategic role of GTOs, this research transcends the boundaries of individual terminals, offering valuable perspectives for policymakers, industry stakeholders, and academics grappling with the intricacies of maritime infrastructure development in this transformative era.

Implications of the Offshore Oil & Gas Working Environment on Mental Health and Performance of Workers

Hossam Eldin Gadalla, Hesham Helal, Ahmed Saad Nofal

DOI NO. https://doi.org/10.59660/48706 Received 10/10/2023, Revised 02/01/2024, Acceptance 22/01/2024, Available online and Published 01/07/2024

Abstract

This study aimed to investigate the potential effect of the site location on the relationship between the Oil and Gas working environment’s psychosocial hazards, mental health disorders and workers’ Performance. Quantitative methods and deductive approaches have been used. The study’s population was Egyptian Oil & Gas workers, and the study sample included 409 participants. The collected data were statistically analyzed using descriptive analysis, correlation analysis, independent samples t-test, and Structural Equation Modelling (SEM). The results indicated a high levels of psychosocial hazards in the Oil & Gas working environment, where isolation, remoteness and adverse living conditions significantly depicted the highest levels. The presence of mental health disorders was confirmed by screening Depression, Stress and Anxiety among the study sample, where most responses indicated difficulties in their abilities to overcome. Further, the results showed an average level of performance with a noticeably low levels in contextual performance aspects. The study concluded that performance in the offshore Oil & Gas industry is not entirely a functional pattern but can also be influenced by the working environment, where the moderating effect of the site location of the Oil & Gas working environment on workers’ mental health disorders could eventually compromise their performance levels, ultimately harming the interest and sustainability of this vital sector. 

The Future of Coastal Navigation Safety in Egypt: Improving the Reliability of Electronic Charts

Samy Ismail A. M. Youssef, Mohamed Shendy

DOI NO. https://doi.org/10.59660/48702 Received 13/10/2023, Revised 25/12/2023, Acceptance 02/02/2024, Available online and Published 01/07/2024

Abstract

This paper investigates the integrity and reliability of electronic navigation charts (ENCs) used for maritime navigation along the Egyptian coast. Comprehensive assessments were conducted, focusing on critical stretches including the Suez Canal, Strait of Jubal, Aqaba Gulf entrance, and Hurghada Port access channels. The findings expose alarming accuracy gaps in these vital yet confined transit zones, with Category of Zone of Confidence (CATZOC) classification results indicating positional uncertainties exceeding five hundred meters. Such imprecision severely erodes navigational safety buffers for ships amidst intense traffic volumes. Meanwhile, proximity to delicate coral ecosystems and coastal communities raises the stakes for averting accidents. Responding to these urgent threats, promising initiatives are already underway between Egyptian agencies and international hydrographic bodies to systematically address ENC deficiencies through new surveys and data enhancements. Mandatory functionality checks, crew training, and compliance enforcement will also optimize the utilization of existing ECDIS installations. Sustained investments to upgrade this core informational infrastructure will help align the country’s navigational framework with best practices for protecting life, property, and the environment. A multifaceted strategy tackling both human and technical dimensions across ships, ports, and shoreside administrators is essential for eliminating needless risk. Strengthening ENC integrity will provide Egyptian-flagged and visiting vessels with greater situational assurance when transiting confined waterways, while preventing devastating shipping accidents that could damage fragile marine ecosystems.

Collision between supply vessels and offshore installations case cargo handling and personal transferring operation

Khaled Abu Bakr – Hesham Helal – Said Abdelkader

DOI NO. https://doi.org/10.59660/48701 Received 12/08/2023, Revised 28/11/2023, Acceptance 01/01/2024, Available online and Published 01/07/2024

Abstract

This paper presents a systematic methodology aiming at investigating human-error induced collisions between attendant vessels and offshore installations, with focus on three key risk categories: Cargo handling and personnel transferring (CH), loss of station keeping (SK) and ship handling and maneuvers (SH). Because of space limitation, the methodology will be applied here to the first category (CH) only.

The Failure Mode, Effects and Criticality Analysis (FMECA) method was used to identify the hazards. Moreover, the Interpretive Structural Modeling (ISM) of Multi Criteria Decision Making (MCDM) was used for the same purpose and results of both methods were favorably compared. Moreover, the Fault Tree Analysis (FTA) was used to evaluate the root causes of accidents down to the Underling Factors (UFs) benefiting from the revised guidelines for the IMO Formal Safety Assessment (FSA).