More than 60% of all engine room fires have been initiated by a hot spo
Oil leakage hitting hot spots on engines is the most common cause of engine room fires on board ships.
According to DNV casualty statistics, more than 60% of all engine room fires have been initiated by a hot spot.
It is also DNV’s impression that fires caused by oil leakage/hot spots is in general more serious than fires caused by other factors.
Most lubrication, hydraulic and fuel oils have an auto ignition point above 250C. If a liquid hits a surface hotter than its auto ignition temperature, the liquid may ignite spontaneously.
Any such hot spot represents an immediate hazard in the case of oil leakage.
For more information, please see DNV’s brochure on Engine Room Fires
Source: DNV