UTI (Ullage, Temperature and Interface) systems are critical for measuring cargo tanks safely and accurately on oil, chemical and product tankers. Like any equipment used in demanding marine environments, UTI sensors can develop faults over time due to wear, contamination and continuous service.

Recognising common UTI sensor problems early helps prevent inaccurate measurements, operational delays and unnecessary troubleshooting.

This guide outlines the most common issues encountered on board and when replacement may be the most practical solution.

One of the first signs of a failing UTI sensor is inconsistent or inaccurate ullage readings.

Possible causes include:

• Internal sensor wear
• Electrical connection issues
• Damaged sensor components
• Age-related deterioration

If calibration or inspection does not resolve the issue, replacing the sensor is often the most reliable option.

UTI systems measure cargo temperature alongside ullage.

Typical symptoms include:

• Temperature not displayed
• Unstable temperature values
• Readings that differ significantly from expected values
• Intermittent operation

Temperature faults can result from damaged sensing elements or internal electronic failures.

When measuring oil-water interfaces, accurate interface detection is essential.

Common problems include:

• Failure to detect interface
• False interface alarms
• Delayed response
• Unstable measurements

Contamination, worn sensor components or ageing electronics may contribute to these issues.

Marine cargo operations expose UTI equipment to harsh conditions.

Inspect the sensor for:

• Cracked housings
• Corrosion
• Damaged connectors
• Excessive cable wear
• Mechanical impact damage

Visible damage often indicates that replacement is preferable to repair.

If the sensor works normally on some occasions but fails on others, possible causes include:

• Loose electrical connections
• Moisture ingress
• Connector wear
• Internal electronic faults

Intermittent faults are particularly difficult to diagnose and can interrupt cargo operations unexpectedly.

Installing the wrong sensor model can produce symptoms that resemble equipment failure.

Always confirm compatibility with the installed UTI system before ordering replacement parts.

Common compatible systems include:

• GTEX®
• MK3®
• MMC®
• TFC-02®
• Marsen®
• Seahover®

Using the correct compatible sensor helps ensure straightforward installation and reliable operation.

Replacement should be considered when:

• Faults occur repeatedly
• Measurements become unreliable
• Physical damage is present
• The equipment has reached the end of its service life

Replacing a worn sensor before complete failure can reduce operational disruption during scheduled maintenance.

If you are unsure whether your sensor requires replacement, UTISpares can help identify the correct compatible solution.

Simply send:

• A photograph of the UTI sensor
• A photograph of the PCB instrument
• Any visible model or identification labels
• A brief description of the problem

Our team can recommend the appropriate compatible replacement for your UTI system.

UTISpares supplies compatible replacement UTI sensors and PCB instruments for GTEX®, MK3®, MMC®, TFC-02®, Marsen® and Seahover® systems, with worldwide delivery.