KISS

Project objective

In the current shipping industry, maintenance is dominated by reactive (corrective) or rigid, time-based intervals. While corrective maintenance only takes effect when a defect occurs, time-based strategies often lead to avoidable costs through the premature replacement of functioning components. Condition-Based Maintenance (CBM) offers an efficient alternative: through continuous monitoring, maintenance measures are initiated safely and as needed, before damage occurs.

Despite mature technologies, high initial investment costs hinder the widespread implementation of CBM. Fraunhofer CML is therefore developing a reference model that makes different maintenance strategies economically comparable. This tool enables maritime industry stakeholders to evaluate the profitability of CBM solutions based on simulations to economically justify the transition to modern, data-driven maintenance concepts.

 

Project subject

Condition-based maintenance strategies promise a reduction in unnecessary interventions, as they trigger measures based on the actual condition of components rather than at fixed intervals. On the other hand, there are higher investment costs for sensor technology, data infrastructure, and diagnostic and prognostic systems. The development of a reference model is intended to enable small and medium-sized enterprises in particular to systematically weigh up the benefits and costs of different maintenance strategies and, based on this, make informed, data-driven decisions. Depending on the type of ship and the components under consideration, it should be possible to determine the optimal strategy mix. In addition to direct costs and availability, logistical constraints and technical conditions should also be taken into account in the evaluation in order to enable the most comprehensive assessment of maintenance strategies possible.

 

CML's tasks within the project

The CML is responsible for the scientific and technical management of the project. In addition, the CML ensures the close involvement of industry partners and the transfer of results to the maritime industry.

 

Project consortium

The CML is supported by the expertise of representatives from the maritime industry. These include shipping companies, shipbuilders, technology manufacturers, service providers, and consulting firms.

Abeking & Rasmussen	MKO Marine Consulting
August Storm GmbH & Co. KG	MTG Marinetechnik GmbH
Bachmann electronic GmbH	O.S. Energy GmbH
Carl Baguhn GmbH & Co KG	PCCG Point Conception Consulting
Carnival Maritime GmbH	RS Heise Schiffs- und Industrietechnik GmbH & Co.
Offen Group	Thyssenkrupp Marine Systems GmbH

 

Funding framework

The IGF project KISS is funded by the BMWE for the period from April 2025 to September 2026.