Overview
Schaller Automation VISATRON® VN2020 Oil Mist Detector – Intelligent Protection for Marine Diesel, Dual-Fuel & Gas Engines
The Schaller Automation VISATRON® VN2020 Oil Mist Detector is the latest generation of oil mist monitoring systems developed to provide continuous crankcase protection for large marine diesel, dual-fuel, and gas engines. Designed as the successor to the well-established VISATRON® VN87plus and VISATRON® VN93, the VN2020 incorporates modern electronics, improved diagnostics, simplified maintenance, and faster response times while maintaining the reliability for which Schaller Automation is known.
Oil mist generated by overheated bearings, lubrication failure, excessive friction, or other developing mechanical faults can create hazardous conditions inside an engine crankcase. The VISATRON® VN2020 continuously monitors these conditions, providing early warning so engineers can investigate abnormalities before they develop into serious engine damage or crankcase explosions.
Designed for commercial shipping, offshore installations, and industrial power applications, the VISATRON® VN2020 combines optical measurement technology with intelligent system diagnostics to deliver reliable engine protection throughout the engine's operating life.
At Ship Care Service, we supply genuine Schaller Automation VISATRON® VN2020 Oil Mist Detectors, measuring units, spare parts, accessories, and technical support for shipowners, ship management companies, offshore operators, shipyards, and marine service providers worldwide.
What is the Schaller Automation VISATRON® VN2020?
The VISATRON® VN2020 is an advanced oil mist detection system that continuously monitors oil mist concentration inside marine engine crankcases using an optical measuring system.
Unlike detector-head systems that require individual sensors on every crankcase compartment, the VN2020 continuously extracts crankcase atmosphere through its measuring system, analyzes oil mist concentration, and provides rapid alarm indication whenever abnormal levels are detected. The system has been engineered for long service life with low maintenance requirements and reduced total cost of ownership.
The VISATRON® VN2020 is widely installed on:
Why Oil Mist Detection is Important
Marine engines operate continuously under demanding conditions where even minor mechanical problems can rapidly develop into major failures.
Abnormal oil mist formation may result from:
Continuous monitoring helps operators:
Detect developing faults early
Reduce the risk of crankcase explosions
Protect expensive engine components
Improve crew safety
Reduce unplanned downtime
Support predictive maintenance
Lower long-term repair costs
Early detection allows maintenance teams to investigate problems before severe engine damage occurs.
How the VISATRON® VN2020 Works
The VISATRON® VN2020 continuously monitors crankcase atmosphere during engine operation.
Step 1 – Continuous Air Extraction
The system continuously extracts crankcase atmosphere using the integrated air extraction system to ensure uninterrupted monitoring of engine conditions.
Step 2 – Optical Oil Mist Measurement
The extracted atmosphere passes through an optical measuring chamber where oil mist concentration is determined using precise optical measurement technology.
The optical system continuously evaluates oil mist density and detects even small changes in crankcase conditions.
Step 3 – Continuous Analysis
The electronic control system continuously processes measurement data and compares oil mist concentration against preset alarm thresholds.
Modern SMD electronics provide rapid signal processing while maintaining reliable long-term performance.
Step 4 – Alarm Activation
If oil mist concentration exceeds the programmed alarm level, the VISATRON® VN2020 immediately activates visual and audible alarms, enabling engineers to investigate the affected engine before serious damage develops.
Key Features of the VISATRON® VN2020
Latest Generation Electronics
The VN2020 incorporates modern SMD electronic technology that provides faster response, improved reliability, and simplified servicing compared with earlier generations.
Low Maintenance Design
The system has been engineered to minimize maintenance requirements and reduce operating costs throughout the service life of the engine.
User-Friendly Operation
An improved LED display and simplified operating interface allow engineers to monitor system status, perform testing, and reset alarms quickly and efficiently.
Integrated Communication
The VISATRON® VN2020 supports CANopen and Modbus RTU communication protocols, enabling integration with modern marine automation and engine monitoring systems.
Reduced Total Cost of Ownership
By combining long service life, low maintenance requirements, and simplified operation, the VN2020 helps reduce lifetime operating costs for shipowners and operators.
Worldwide Marine Approval
The system is available with ATEX and IECEx versions and is certified by major marine classification societies for use in appropriate marine applications.
Typical Applications
The VISATRON® VN2020 is suitable for a wide range of marine and industrial engine applications.
Commercial Cargo Ships
Continuous crankcase protection for propulsion and auxiliary engines.
Oil & Chemical Tankers
Reliable engine safety during demanding cargo operations.
Container Ships
Supports uninterrupted engine monitoring during long voyages.
Bulk Carriers
Provides early warning of developing crankcase faults.
Offshore Support Vessels
Reliable oil mist monitoring for offshore propulsion and power generation systems.
Marine Power Generation
Suitable for auxiliary diesel generator engines and onboard electrical power systems.
Industrial Power Plants
Continuous engine protection for stationary diesel and gas engine installations.
Shipyards
Installed during new vessel construction, engine upgrades, and retrofit projects.
Industries We Serve
The VISATRON® VN2020 is widely used across:
Marine Shipping
Offshore Oil & Gas
Ship Management
Marine Engineering
Ship Repair Yards
Marine Power Generation
Industrial Power Plants
Port Operations
Who Uses the VISATRON® VN2020?
Typical users include:
Why Choose the Schaller Automation VISATRON® VN2020?
Marine operators worldwide choose the VISATRON® VN2020 because it offers:
Modern optical oil mist detection
Fast electronic response
Low maintenance requirements
User-friendly operation
CANopen & Modbus RTU communication
Reduced lifecycle costs
Worldwide marine acceptance
Proven Schaller Automation reliability
The VISATRON® VN2020 is designed to provide dependable crankcase monitoring throughout the operational life of modern marine engines while helping operators improve safety, reduce maintenance costs, and support long-term engine reliability.
Technical Overview
The Schaller Automation VISATRON® VN2020 Oil Mist Detector is an advanced crankcase oil mist monitoring system engineered for continuous protection of marine diesel, dual-fuel, gas, and stationary industrial engines. The system combines optical measurement technology, an integrated air extraction system, intelligent electronic processing, and modern communication interfaces to deliver reliable engine monitoring under demanding operating conditions.
The VISATRON® VN2020 continuously monitors oil mist concentration inside the crankcase, helping engineers identify abnormal engine conditions before they develop into major mechanical failures or crankcase explosions.
Note: Technical specifications may vary depending on the engine configuration, installation arrangement, and equipment version. Always verify system details using the equipment nameplate and the official Schaller Automation documentation.
| Specification |
Details |
| Product Name |
Schaller Automation VISATRON® VN2020 |
| Manufacturer |
Schaller Automation |
| Equipment Type |
Marine Oil Mist Detection System |
| Detection Principle |
Optical Oil Mist Measurement |
| Sampling Method |
Continuous Air Extraction |
| Display |
Integrated LED Status Display |
| Communication |
CANopen & Modbus RTU |
| Alarm Function |
Visual & Audible Alarm |
| Installation |
Marine Diesel, Dual-Fuel & Gas Engines |
| Typical Application |
Main & Auxiliary Marine Engines |
Main Components of the VISATRON® VN2020
The VISATRON® VN2020 consists of several integrated components that work together to provide dependable crankcase monitoring.
Electronic Control Unit
The control unit manages all monitoring and diagnostic functions.
Its responsibilities include:
The electronic controller continuously evaluates oil mist measurements while supervising overall system health.
Optical Measuring Unit
The measuring unit is the heart of the VN2020.
Its functions include:
Continuous oil mist measurement
Optical signal processing
High-sensitivity detection
Stable long-term monitoring
The optical measurement principle provides reliable detection of abnormal oil mist concentrations while minimizing false alarms.
Air Extraction System
The VISATRON® VN2020 continuously extracts crankcase atmosphere through its integrated air extraction system.
This provides:
Unlike detector-head systems, the VN2020 uses centralized continuous sampling to monitor crankcase conditions.
LED Display & Status Indicators
The integrated display provides engineers with:
Operating status
Alarm indication
Fault indication
Diagnostic information
System status
The simplified interface supports quick operation during normal service and maintenance.
Communication Interface
The VN2020 supports:
These communication protocols allow integration with:
Working Principle
The VISATRON® VN2020 continuously monitors crankcase atmosphere whenever the engine is operating.
Step 1 – Continuous Air Sampling
The integrated extraction system continuously draws crankcase atmosphere into the measuring system.
This ensures uninterrupted monitoring of engine operating conditions.
Step 2 – Optical Measurement
The extracted air passes through the optical measuring chamber.
Oil mist concentration is determined by measuring changes in light transmission caused by suspended oil particles.
Step 3 – Electronic Signal Processing
The control electronics continuously process measurement data and compare the measured oil mist concentration with programmed alarm thresholds.
The electronic system also supervises overall equipment condition.
Step 4 – Alarm Activation
If oil mist concentration exceeds the configured alarm level, the system immediately activates:
Visual Alarm
Audible Alarm
Alarm Output Signal
Where installed, alarm signals may also be transmitted to the vessel's automation and engine monitoring systems.
Advantages of the VISATRON® VN2020
Continuous Engine Monitoring
The VN2020 continuously monitors crankcase conditions throughout engine operation without interrupting normal engine performance.
Reliable Optical Detection
Optical measurement technology provides dependable oil mist detection with stable long-term performance.
Fast Electronic Processing
Modern electronic design enables rapid detection of abnormal crankcase conditions while maintaining excellent measurement stability.
Simplified Operation
The user-friendly interface allows engineers to quickly monitor system status, acknowledge alarms, and perform routine operational checks.
Integrated Communication
Support for CANopen and Modbus RTU allows straightforward integration into modern vessel automation systems.
Low Maintenance Design
The VN2020 has been engineered to minimize maintenance requirements while supporting long operational service life.
Reliable Marine Construction
The system is designed for demanding engine room environments including:
High temperatures
Continuous vibration
High humidity
Heavy engine loading
Long operating hours
Routine Maintenance
Routine inspection helps maintain reliable system performance.
Before Engine Operation
Inspect:
System status
Display indicators
Alarm condition
Air supply
Electrical power
Ensure that the detector indicates normal operating condition before starting the engine.
Weekly Inspection
Check:
Air extraction system
Display operation
Alarm indicators
Electrical connections
Visible contamination
Inspect the equipment for signs of physical damage or abnormal operation.
Monthly Inspection
Inspect:
Clean accessible components where contamination is present.
Annual Maintenance
Recommended annual maintenance includes:
Complete functional inspection
Optical system inspection
Air extraction system inspection
Electrical inspection
Alarm verification
Communication testing
Calibration verification (if applicable)
Maintenance records should be maintained within the vessel's Planned Maintenance System (PMS).
Common Operational Problems
Although the VISATRON® VN2020 is designed for dependable operation, certain issues may occur during long-term service.
Problem: False Alarm
Possible Causes
Recommended Solution
Inspect the measuring chamber, verify the air extraction system, and confirm correct electrical connections.
Problem: Low Airflow
Possible Causes
Recommended Solution
Inspect filters, verify air supply, and check the extraction system for restrictions.
Problem: Display Not Operating
Possible Causes
Recommended Solution
Verify electrical supply, inspect wiring connections, and check protective devices.
Problem: Communication Failure
Possible Causes
Recommended Solution
Inspect communication wiring, verify CANopen or Modbus configuration, and replace defective components if necessary.
Problem: Frequent Fault Indications
Possible Causes
Recommended Solution
Carry out a complete system inspection and perform maintenance according to manufacturer recommendations.
Calibration Recommendations
To maintain reliable oil mist detection performance, periodic functional testing and calibration verification should be performed according to Schaller Automation maintenance procedures and the vessel's Planned Maintenance System.
Calibration is recommended:
During scheduled maintenance
After replacing major components
Following engine overhaul
After prolonged equipment shutdown
As specified within company maintenance procedures
Genuine Spare Parts Available
Ship Care Service supplies genuine replacement parts for the Schaller Automation VISATRON® VN2020, including:
Availability depends on the equipment version and production series.
Buying Guide
Before purchasing a VISATRON® VN2020 or replacement components, consider the following:
Verify Equipment Compatibility
Confirm compatibility using your engine model and installed oil mist monitoring system.
Confirm Equipment Identification
Providing the model number, serial number, engine manufacturer, and equipment nameplate helps identify compatible replacement units and spare parts.
Select Genuine Components
Using genuine replacement parts helps maintain:
Choose an Experienced Marine Supplier
Work with a supplier capable of providing technical assistance, genuine products, spare parts support, and after-sales service.
Why Marine Operators Choose the VISATRON® VN2020
The Schaller Automation VISATRON® VN2020 is trusted worldwide because it offers:
Continuous crankcase monitoring
Reliable optical detection
Fast electronic response
Low maintenance requirements
Integrated CANopen & Modbus RTU communication
User-friendly operation
Durable marine construction
Proven long-term reliability
