Elcome International has signed a milestone agreement with a Middle East-based shipowner to retrofit boiler control systems to a mix of ten crude tankers and product carriers.

The deal, which ensures long-term boiler reliability and digital readiness, follows recurring operational issues with older equipment and marks one of Elcome’s most comprehensive retrofit programmes to date.

The contract covers the supply and installation of new ELSYS Boiler Control systems for Alfa Laval Mission/ALTS Boiler control systems for auxiliary and composite boilers on each ship. The original Mission systems using UNISAB II controllers, delivered in 2012, had reached the end of their lifecycle, with parts unavailable and failures becoming increasingly frequent.

Elcome’s scope of supply centres on modern PLC-based control systems for Alfa Laval OL/OC boiler control systems, updated HMIs (human-machine interfaces), SCADA integration, and burner management system.

Each installation includes secure remote connectivity, enabling Elcome’s service team to provide real-time support, software updates, and diagnostics during voyages. This capability reflects the growing role of digitalisation and condition monitoring in ensuring optimum performance, faster intervention and reduced downtime.

“We are pleased to have finalised this new agreement which will provide the owner – a long-standing customer for Elcome, and one of the region’s leading ship operators – with more reliable, efficient boiler operations fleet wide,” said Jimmy Grewal, Elcome’s Managing Director. “The scope of supply is comprehensive, and by integrating remote connectivity we have ensured these vessels will benefit from faster support, reduced downtime, and smarter energy management.”

Two vessels have already been retrofitted, one in Jebel Ali and one while sailing without affecting charter commitments. Each installation takes between five and seven days, demonstrating Elcome’s ability to work within tight operational schedules. Elcome has already delivered the scope of supply to multiple international locations, with the remaining eight retrofits scheduled for completion before the end of the year.

The control systems have passed factory acceptance testing and been approved by classification society Lloyd’s Register. They meet functional safety standards and cybersecurity protocols.

Elcome is also providing crew training and supported by one year of complimentary remote diagnostics and troubleshooting.

Data from the first two installations has already indicated reduced alarms, extended mean time to failure, and a more stable performance, confirming the effectiveness of the upgrade.

“The vessels’ main boiler was originally equipped with a UNISAB II control system installed over 13 years ago. The outdated technology had no remote and onboard diagnostic capability and inefficient combustion control, leading to higher fuel consumption and frequent nuisance trips,” said Pramod Nair, Senior Manager at Elcome’s Automation division.

“The Elcome upgrade demonstrates the value of combining our installation and commissioning expertise with our advanced digital-based technologies. Owners are increasingly looking for solutions that not only resolve technical challenges but also prepare their fleets for a more connected and data-driven future.”

By finalising this agreement, Elcome has strengthened its position as a trusted partner for owners managing both technical obsolescence and digital transformation. The Alfa Laval Mission OL/OC retrofits represent a strategic investment that enhances safety, reliability, and efficiency while laying the foundation for smart fleet operations.