Keeping it running since 1981: A story of reliability at sea

When walking into the engine room of the Dana, a vessel built in Aarhus in 1981, you might be surprised to find a a piece of equipment still operating faithfully after more than four decades. Yet, that’s exactly the case with the ship’s Atlas incinerator – installed during construction and still an integral part of daily operations. 

We spoke with Jesper, a crewmember aboard Dana, who is part of the team that keeps this old workhorse running. 

“The incinerator is actually part of the original ship drawings. Based on the manuals, it looks like it was produced in 1980 and installed during construction. So it’s been here since day one.” 
– Jesper, crewmember aboard Dana 

Built to last – and it has 

Despite its age, the incinerator continues to perform reliably. Jesper and his colleagues have only made minimal replacements – a testament to both the quality of the equipment and the care with which it’s been maintained. 

“We’ve only really replaced a few nozzles and a gasket on one of the pumps. That’s it.” – Jesper, crewmember aboard Dana 

Its longevity is partly down to how it’s used. With relatively short voyages, the incinerator typically runs once per trip for a couple of days, handling limited amounts of sludge oil and cardboard waste. 

“We usually fire it up once per trip and let it run for two or three days until the tank is nearly empty.”  – Jesper, crewmember aboard Dana

Operating the incinerator is a skill that relies heavily on experience. The system uses analogue signals and visual cues, with no digital interface. According to Jesper, much of the process depends on knowing the sound of relays and the colour of the flame. 

“It’s very visual. You look at the flame colour – if it turns too orange, it’s not burning clean. It’s like running an old boiler. You need to feel it.” 
— Jesper, crewmember aboard Dana 

Decades of reliable performance – with support to match 

Even after more than 40 years in service, the Atlas incinerator onboard Dana continues to deliver consistent and dependable operation. Jesper highlights how spare parts have remained available over the years, and how the unit still runs smoothly with minimal intervention. 

And when maintenance is needed, support has been easy to access. 

“I contacted Atlas for a gasket. Once I sent the dimensions, there was no doubt it was the right part. It was all very straightforward.” 
— Jesper, crewmember aboard Dana 

This kind of longevity is only possible when a system is designed and built to the highest standards both mechanically and operationally. 

For Jesper and his team, the incinerator is more than just a piece of equipment. It’s a part of the vessel’s rhythm, and a trusted tool that reflects both skilled engineering and the crew’s know-how. 

“It’s like an old car – it has a soul. It’s not just about turning a key. You have to understand it.” 
– Jesper, crewmember aboard Dana 

His advice to others working with long-serving systems? 

“Be patient. Let it warm up. Don’t push it to the limit all the time. And share knowledge – that’s what keeps it running.” 

– Jesper, crewmember aboard Dana 

Final Thoughts 

The story of Dana’s incinerator is a rare example of how durability, good maintenance and thoughtful operation can extend a system’s lifetime far beyond expectations. It’s not only a testament to the crew’s technical skill it’s proof that when you invest in premium solutions, they also keep delivering.