Abstract
Tugboats play a crucial role in the maritime industry by providing towing and maneuvering services, especially in confined harbor environments. At the Port of Aden, the tugboat Wadi Hassan has experienced persistent issues related to elevated low-water temperatures in its port-side main engine. This study investigates the root causes of these thermal anomalies, with a focus on the impact of marine biofouling and potential failures in the cathodic protection system. A comprehensive analysis was conducted using operational data, inspection reports, and a comparative assessment of the port and starboard engines. The findings reveal that the ineffective cathodic protection system led to extensive marine fouling on the heat exchanger surfaces, compromising the engine’s cooling performance. Existing maintenance and protection strategies were evaluated and found to be insufficient in preventing biofouling under the harsh marine conditions of the Red Sea and Gulf of Aden. Based on these findings, the study proposes an integrated mitigation plan to enhance marine energy systems. Key recommendations include upgrading cathodic protection mechanisms, applying advanced anti-fouling coatings, incorporating real-time monitoring systems, and optimizing maintenance schedules. Implementation of these measures is expected to enhance engine reliability, reduce unplanned downtime, lower maintenance costs, and extend the operational lifespan of critical systems.