Exam Question

### **Marine Growth Protection System (MGPS)**
#### **1. Introduction and Principle of Operation**
A Marine Growth Protection System (MGPS), also known as an Anti-Fouling System (AFS), is an essential piece of equipment installed on vessels to prevent the settlement and growth of marine organisms (bio-fouling) within the ship's internal seawater cooling systems. Unchecked bio-fouling can lead to restricted flow, blockages, overheating of machinery, increased pump load, and accelerated corrosion, resulting in significant operational inefficiency and maintenance costs.
The system operates on the principle of impressed current electrolysis. It consists of a set of anodes, typically made of copper and either aluminum or soft iron, which are installed in the sea chests or main seawater strainers. A dedicated control panel supplies a low-voltage DC current to these anodes, causing them to dissolve at a controlled rate, releasing ions into the incoming seawater.