Efficient incinerators in ship operations are essential for sustainable waste management onboard modern vessels. Shipboard incinerators, such as those provided by Atlas Incinerators, are critical components in marine waste management systems, supporting compliance with strict international environmental regulations and ensuring safe disposal of waste generated during daily ship operations.

Types of waste handled by marine incinerator systems

Marine incinerator systems are designed to handle a variety of waste streams produced on ships, including:

• Oily waste and sludge oil: Generated from engine room operations and machinery spaces.
• Solid waste (garbage): Such as food packaging, plastics, paper, and domestic refuse from crew and passengers.
• Hazardous waste: Including rags soaked in oil, used filters, and chemical containers that cannot be disposed of in the sea.

By incinerating waste onboard, shipowners reduce dependence on port reception facilities, minimise storage needs, and eliminate the risk of non-compliant discharge at sea.

Daily operation and maintenance

Efficient operation and easy maintenance are key for modern marine incinerators. A typical daily workflow includes:

• Loading waste according to manufacturer specifications

• Monitoring combustion temperature and flue gas values

• Removing ash safely and routinely

• Performing regular checks of burners, pumps, and control units

Atlas Incinerators are built with simplicity and durability in mind, enabling safe operation by trained crews and reducing long-term maintenance demands.

Regulations for incinerators on ships: IMO annex V & VI compliance

Compliance with international maritime regulations is non-negotiable. Shipboard incinerators must meet the standards set by:

• IMO MARPOL Annex V: Governing garbage management at sea

• IMO MARPOL Annex VI: Controlling air emissions, including NOx and SOx

Atlas systems are built to exceed these standards:

• Combustion temperatures above 850°C

• No need for external sludge heating, saving fuel

• Flue gas systems that ensure safe and efficient emissions handling

• Protection against burning prohibited materials

Choosing a compliant incinerator ensures operational flexibility and access to global ports.

Atlas Incinerators: Sustainability and total cost of ownership

Atlas Incinerators deliver proven reliability and ease of operation even under challenging conditions at sea. Designed for shipowners who prioritise sustainability and total cost of ownership, our systems deliver robust, cost-effective performance in shipboard waste management. Learn more about our incinerator technology and integrated marine waste solutions on our product page.