VETUS, a global leader in innovative boat systems, has collaborated with the National Marine Electronics Association (NMEA®) to extend an existing NMEA 2000® PGN (Parameter Group Number) to include waterlock temperature. This enhancement enables real-time monitoring, trend visualisation and alerts directly on the vessel’s MFD, contributing to smarter and safer onboard systems, and helps users detect changes at an earlier stage. The updated PGN supports measurement of the exhaust-gas and cooling-water mixture temperature at the waterlock inlet. This temperature can be monitored using an optional sensor package available for selected VETUS waterlocks, including the HPWS model within the HPW series. When installed, the sensor and thermowell connect to the NMEA 2000® network to provide temperature data to compatible MFDs.
“Collaborating with NMEA® ensures that new data fields are implemented in a consistent and compatible way.” said Arthur Roeling, Director R&D and Aftersales at VETUS. “By adding waterlock temperature to an existing PGN, we bring valuable exhaust-system information directly to the MFD.” Initial integration targets new-build vessels using an existing NMEA 2000® backbone, with refit support planned for a later phase. The level of detail displayed depends on the capabilities of the selected MFD and the set of standard and extended PGNs it supports. The PGN extension has been developed in alignment with NMEA® working groups and is currently in the development phase. Pilot projects with selected boatyards and installers will begin shortly, after which launch timing will be confirmed. Future development will explore expanding temperature monitoring to additional wet exhaust components and adding support for refit installations.
