HCI Solutions for Maritime Operations
How we deployed ruggedized hyperconverged infrastructure on naval vessels enabling advanced computing capabilities in challenging maritime environments
Project Overview
A major shipping corporation operating a fleet of 50+ vessels required modernization of their onboard IT infrastructure. Traditional server setups were failing due to harsh maritime conditions, limited space, and the need for high availability during long voyages without shore support.
Our mission was to design and deploy a hyperconverged infrastructure (HCI) solution that could withstand maritime conditions while providing enterprise-grade computing capabilities for navigation, operations, crew welfare, and regulatory compliance systems.
Maritime IT Challenges
- Harsh Environment: Constant vibration, salt air corrosion, temperature extremes, and power fluctuations
- Space Constraints: Limited room for traditional server racks in ship compartments
- Connectivity Issues: Intermittent satellite connectivity requiring edge computing capabilities
- Maintenance Challenges: No IT support available during voyages lasting weeks or months
Project Details
Client
International Shipping Corporation
Industry
Maritime & Shipping
Fleet Size
50+ Vessels
Technologies
Maritime HCI Solution
We designed a ruggedized hyperconverged infrastructure specifically optimized for maritime deployment
Ruggedized HCI Nodes
Marinized HPE SimpliVity nodes with vibration dampening, corrosion-resistant coating, and extended temperature tolerance.
Edge Computing Platform
Local processing capabilities for navigation, weather routing, and operational systems without relying on shore connectivity.
Hybrid Connectivity
Intelligent switching between VSAT, 4G/5G, and port Wi-Fi with automatic data synchronization when connected.
Maritime Applications
Containerized deployment of ECDIS, voyage planning, crew management, and regulatory compliance applications.
Automated Failover
Built-in redundancy with automatic failover ensuring critical systems remain operational during component failures.
Remote Management
Shore-based monitoring and management capabilities with satellite link optimization for remote support.
Phased Fleet Deployment
Pilot Deployment
Initial deployment on 3 vessels for different ship types - container, tanker, and bulk carrier
Phase 1 - 2 months
Phase 2 - 4 months
Regional Rollout
Deployment to 15 vessels operating in Asia-Pacific routes with localized support
Fleet-wide Implementation
Full deployment across all 50+ vessels with standardized configurations
Phase 3 - 6 months
Ongoing
Continuous Optimization
AI-driven optimization, predictive maintenance, and feature enhancements
Maritime-Specific Features
Environmental Resilience
- Operating temperature range: -20°C to +55°C
- Vibration resistance up to 2G continuous
- IP65 rated enclosures for salt spray protection
Operational Benefits
- 70% reduction in physical footprint vs traditional servers
- Automated backup and replication between ships in port
- Self-healing capabilities with predictive maintenance
Operational Impact
The HCI deployment transformed maritime IT operations across the fleet
System Uptime
During voyages
Space Savings
In server rooms
Power Reduction
Lower energy consumption
Remote Support
Via satellite link
Operational Achievements
- Zero critical system failures during 18 months of operation across the fleet
- Enabled real-time voyage optimization saving 15% on fuel costs
- Improved crew welfare with reliable internet and entertainment systems
- Achieved full regulatory compliance with automated reporting
“Buffercode's maritime HCI solution has revolutionized our shipboard IT operations. The ruggedized systems have performed flawlessly in the harshest conditions, from Arctic routes to tropical storms. The space and power savings alone justified the investment, but the operational improvements have exceeded all expectations.”
Chief Technology Officer
International Shipping Corporation