What is International Shore Connection?

The international shore connection is a universal hose connection that is to be provided on all ships as per the SOLAS requirement. The purpose of the International Shore Connection is to keep a standby hose attachment to get a connection from shore or from other ships in case there is a total failure of pumps onboard.

While using International Shore Connection the sea water is supplied at a pre-decided pressure and is connected to ship’s fire main. This coupling is generally kept on the bridge of a ship so that in case of an emergency it is readily available and used.

As per SOLAS, ships above 500 tons gross tonnage and upwards must have atleast one international shore connection. The internationnshore connection has a standard size and is same for all the countries and ships.

The Dimensions of International Shore Coupling are:

Description	Dimension
Outside Diameter (OD)	178mm
Inside Diameter (ID)	64mm
Bolt Circle Diameter (PCD)	132mm
Slots in Flange	4 holes 19mm in diameter spaced equidistanly on a bolt circle of above diametr,slotted to flange periphery.
Flange Thickness	14.5mm minimum
Bolts & Nuts	4, each of 16mm diameter, 50mm in length

 

Basic Requirements for International Shore Connection

The connection should be made up of steel or other suitable material and shall be designed for 1.0 N/mm2 services. The flange should have flat surface on one side and other side should be permanently connected or attached to a coupling which can be easily fitted to ships hydrant and hose connection.

The connection should be kept onboard with a ready gasket of material which can handle a pressure of 1.0 N/mm2 together with four 16mm bolts, 50 mm in length and eight washers so that the connection can be readily used in case of an emergency situation.

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Marine Auxillary Machinery By H.D Mc George

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