Color Coding of Pipe Lines on Ship

Color coding of pipelines on ships is an essential practice to ensure safety, operational efficiency, and quick identification of different systems. Here’s a brief overview of the color coding scheme typically used on ships.

This color-coding scheme helps in quick identification, ensuring safe operation and maintenance on board the ship. The precise colors and coding standards might vary slightly depending on the regulations of different maritime authorities or shipping companies, but the general principles remain consistent.

Pipe Line	Color Code
Sea Water Line	Green
Fresh Water Line	Blue
Bilge Water Line	Yellow
Sludge Line	Black
Heavy Oil Line	Brown
Diesel Oil Line	Gold
Steam Line	Grey
Air Line	Light Blue
Fire Line	Red

Explanation of Color Codes

Sea Water Line: This line is marked in green and is used for transporting sea water for various purposes including cooling and fire fighting.

Fresh Water Line: Represented in blue, this line is for potable water and other freshwater needs on the ship.

Bilge Water Line: Colored yellow, this line deals with water that has accumulated in the bilge of the ship, which often contains oil, sludge, and other contaminants.

Sludge Line: Black color coding is used for sludge lines which transport waste oil and other waste materials from the ship's engine and machinery spaces.

Heavy Oil Line: Marked in brown, these lines are used for transporting heavy oil used as fuel for the ship's engines.

Diesel Oil Line: These lines, colored gold, carry diesel oil which is used for auxiliary engines and generators on the ship.

Steam Line: Grey lines indicate steam pipes that are used to transport steam for heating and power generation purposes.

Air Line: Light blue coding is used for air lines, which carry compressed air for various machinery and control systems on the ship.

Fire Line: Red lines are for the ship's fire fighting systems, ensuring these lines are easily identifiable in case of an emergency.