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GENERAL ENGINEERING KNOWLEDGE

What interlocks are there on the start air system?
An interlock to prevent fuel being injected
An interlock on turning gear and an interlock CCP system, pitch has to be on zero before starting engine.

What is a shipboard use of stainless steel and the properties that make it appropriate?
Stainless steel could be used for seawater pump shafts. It has good corrosive properties.

What are the differences between cross head and trunk piston engines?

What are the impurities in heavy fuel oil?

Impurities in H.F.O. come in the form of solids and liquids.
Solids-------dirt, rust, and sand.
Liquids----- water and sludge

What is the safety devices fitted to an air compressor?

Low L.O.pressure shutdown
High air temperature shutdown
First stage relief valve
Second stage relief valve
A fusible plug is fitted after the second stage cooler, set at 120 deg cents
If water cooled, a jacket water safety valve is fitted.

Explain heavy fuel oil system from bunker tanks to engine?

Fuel is pumped from the fuel oil D.B.tank via a transfer pump to a F.O sett tank where it is heated. the
F.Opurifiers/centrifuges take suction from the sett tank via purifier heaters, pass through the purifiers,
where any water and impurities are removed and passed on to the serv tank which also has a set of heating
coils.
From the serv tank the fuel then passes via a flow meter to the mixing tank from where the booster pumps
take suction discharging to the F.O.heaters where the correct F.O.temp/viscosity achieved for correct fuel
combustion in the engine, the fuel then passes through the viscosity regulator which controls the heater
temp, then on to the F.O.filter (which are heated) to the fuel pumps then to the fuel injector via double
skin/wall high pressure pipe. Any surplus fuel returns via regulating valve from the fuel pumps back to the
mixing tank.D.O. can also be used in the system and is fed to the system via a 3 way valve.
Note : when diesel is used, no heating is required.

How is leakage in the high-pressure pipeline between the fuel pump and injector detected?
Leakage between the double skin/wall of the high pressure pipe line between the fuel pump and injector is
detected as this space between double skin/walled pipes is led via drain line to a small tank fitted with a
level alarm.

Give an example of the density of H.O, L.O and D.O?

H.F.O. --------- 950 kg/cu.m
L.O --------- 870 kg/cu.m
D.O --------- 880 kg/cu.m

What is the purpose of the scum valve on a boiler?

The scum valve on a boiler is connected to a shallow dish positioned at the normal water level of the boiler
and enables the blowing down or removal of scum and impurities from the water surface.

Why are quick closing valves fitted in a fuel system and how can they fail to operate?
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Quick closing valves are fitted in fuel system so that in the event of a fire in the vicinity of these system or
a fracture or break in these lines the system c an be shutdown rapidly and remotely, this valves are
pneumatically operated. If by any means control air fails to reach the valve the system will fail.

At what temp does the department of trade and industry state the fuels must be kept in the storage tanks?
14 deg cent under their flash points.

Why are weighed cocks fitted to sounding pipes of fuel oil tanks?
To prevent F.O.spills from overflow. They also prevent vapours escaping from tanks.

What are the properties of H.F.O?

High viscosity
Long ignition delay i.e. low cetane index

How does over speed trip work? By shutting the fuel off to the engine.
There arte various types of trips, mechanical types which work on the principle of fly weights, or electrical
types which work on the principle of speed ‘pick up’ operating a stop solenoid

What fittings would you expect to find a start air receiver?

Safety valve, fusible plug, isolation valve to main air start system.
, filling valve from compressor, drain valve, valve to control air, valve to whistle, and pressure gauge

How is the L.O.temp controlled?

By means of a thermostatically controlled valve which will allow L.O.to bypass the cooler when too cold
and divert L.O.through the cooler when too hot. Preset wax elements being incorporated in these valves for
this purpose.

Describe the duties of a duty engineer?

1. Regularly check and record all pressure and temp in the engine room log
2. Pay attention to readings for deviation from normal particular attention being made to exhaust
temp, scavenge temp and pressures and turbocharger r.p.m
3. Adjustments should be made for s.w. Temp, changes to keep correct temp and pressures
4. Checks should be made on the pressure drops across fuel and lub oil filters to see that they are
operating within required limits.
5. Check all oil levels in auxiliary machinery, main engine sump levels, cylinder lubricators,
turbocharger and governors.
6. Check around all bearings and crankcase doors using palm of hand to feel for any increasing temp.
7. ensure that fuel in the daily service tanks is at correct levels and that is sludged and drained of
water
8. depending on type of purifiers fitted sludge and drain , check oil level, signs of vibration and clean
if required
9. Carryout all routine assignment as recommended by engine builders or the company.
10. At all times use sight, smell and hearing and this is often the first sign of a fault developing in the
engine room
11. Check bilge levels, stern gland, air start bottles and maintain correct level a and pressures
12. Record and fuel/lub oil transfer and any irregularities in log.

Why are high and low suction fitted on f.o. serv tank?
The high and low suctions are a safety feature to prevent shutdown of main engines, generators and boilers
due to water contamination of the fuel. Normally the low suction is kept in used if any water should find its
way into the fuel and sevr tank, it will gradually separate towards the tank bottom when it becomes
apparent water is present by finding it at the tank drains or by operation of the engine, it is possible to bring
the high suction into operation and avoid shutdown

What trips are there on a generator?

L.o.low pressure shutdown, j.cw.high temp and over speed shutdown
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What steering gear checks would u do before setting sail?

1) Prior to a ship’s departure from any port the steering gear should be tested to ensure the
satisfactory operation. These tests should include
a) Operation of main steering gear
b) Operation of auxiliary steering gear or the use of the second pump which acts as a
auxiliary
c) Operation of the remote control system from the main bridge steering positions
d) Operation of steering gear using the emergency power supply
e) The r angle indicator reading with respect to actual radar angle should be checked
f) The alarms fitted to the remote control system and steering gear power units should be
checked for correct operation
g) Steering gear header tank levels should be checked.
2. During these tests the radar should be moves through its full travel in both port and
starboard and the various equipment items, linkages etc visually inspected for damage or wear.
The communication system between bridge and steering gear room should also be operated

What would happen if the duty engineer did not report in after answering an alarm?
The dead man alarm would activate which the duty engineer would have to accept in the engine
room, if not accepted the watch keeper on the bridge would send someone to investigate if there
was a problem

Why would the bridge need to be informed that the engine is about to be stopped?
The bridge would need to be informed that the engine was about to be stopped to ensure it was
navigationally safe to do so.ie not in busy shipping lanes or near land.

Draw a 2 stroke-timing diagram

How does the turbocharger work?

The turbocharger mainly consists of a turbine and a compressor assembled as a single unit on a
shaft. The exhaust gas from the engine flows through a water-cooled gas inlet (cooling from
engine j.w. system) to a nozzle ring, which directs gases at the turbine rotor balding. This force
causes a rotor to rotate at high velocity. The gases leaving via a water-cooled gas outlet casing to
an exhaust pipe and atmosphere. The air required for the diesel engine is drawn in by the
compressor via a combined silencer/filter. The entry passage after the filter is then divided onto
splitters which prevent draught losses and guide the air to the compressor and discharge
radially at high velocity to the diffuser, which charges much of the velocity to pressure. From the
diffuser the air passes into the volute casing, changing the rest of the airs kinetic energy to
pressure before being discharged to the charge air cooler and to the engine for combustion.

What would happen if the l.o.pressure just dropped to zero/?

The engine would shutdown on the low l.o.pressure trip.

How is the signal from the bridge when the helm is moved transmitted to the hydraulic rams in
steering flat/?
When the helm on the bridge is moved, electrical impulses are produced. These impulses are transmitted
via an amplifier or control unit to the steering flat. In the steering flat these impulses are relayed to a servo
motor (telemotor) which drives an adjusting gear and floating lever which put the steering gear variable
delivery pump on stroke, thus crating hydraulic pressure in the system which means the rams, thus moving
the tiller and rudder. The pump is only required to deliver oil when the whelm is moved i. e once rudder has
matched the helm angle, the control lever, will put the pump off stroke.

How many starts do you require to get from a receiver without recharging?
On a reversible engine 12 starts
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On engines with CPP propellers 6 starts

What is the maximum compressed air temperature that should leave the air compressor? 93 deg centigrade

What are the pipes used for pumping fuel around the ship-protected by/
Quick closing valves---------which can be operated remotely. In most cases from the bridge or a remote
location from the engine room.

What measuring devices are there on the cylinder head of 4-stroke engine?
Exhaust temperature pyrometer and j.w. Outlet thermometer.

After stripping and cleaning a purifier what do you have to make sure of on reassembly?
The mark on the bowl lock ring lines up with the mark on the bowl.
Also if vertical shaft has been removed that height of shaft is correct

How would you check that there was excess water in the sump?
By using water finding paste

What types of valves are boiler feed check valves and why?
Non return type valves a and are fitted in pairs one being the main and the other the stand by or auxiliary
and they must give an indication of open or closed positions. They are of non-return type to prevent back
flow of boiler pressure down the feed line.

Give a shipboard use of cupro nickel and the properties that make it suitable for this use?
Heat exchanger tubes. It has good corrosive qualities and very good heat transfer qualities.

What is an indication in the exhaust gas of good combustion?

Grey smoke indicated good combustion.

What would cause a crankcase explosion?

A crankcase explosion could be caused by the formation of hot spot i.e. the overheating of a bearing, which
in turn could cause an oil mist to be generated,
. If this oil mist is allowed to build up an explosive condition could occur where the oil mist can be ignited
by piston blow by or the hot spot itself.

Explain a main engine l.o.system?

l.o. for an engine is stored at the bottom of a crankcase known as sump or in a drain tank located beneath
the engine. The oil is drawn from this tank through a strainer by one of two pumps in parallel, one pump
being on stand by. The pump discharges the oil into one of a pair of fine filters it is then passed through a
cooler before entering the engine and being distributed to the various branches pipes. The branch pipe for a
particular unit feed the main bearing, for instance. Some of this oil will pass along a drilled passage in the
crankshaft to the big end bearing and then up a drilled passage in the connecting rod to the gudgeon pin in a
trunk piston engine or a crosshead bearing in a crosshead bearing. An alarm at the end of the distribution
pipe ensures that adequate pressure is maintained by the pump. Pump and filters are arranged in duplicate
with one as stand by. After use in the3 engine the l.o.drain back to the sump or drain tank for reuse.

What limit does the department of trade and industry state that the lower limit of flash point of fuel used
onboard ship should be?
65deg cent

Explain how would you start an air compressor and stop it (after overhauling)
1. Check oil level in crankcase.
2. Then ensure all drains are open. intercooler drain and also unloader
3. Check air intake filters is cleaned
4. Ensure oil pressure gauge is open and that air pressure gauges i.e. first and second stage are
partially open to stop gauge fluctuation.
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5. If water-cooled check valves are open and cooling is supplied also check header tank.
6. Bar machine over by hand to see if its free to turn
7. Start the machine, check there are no unusual noises or vibration and oil pressure is correct.
8. then close drains and unloader
9. If all seem o.k. run for 30 minutes after which can be stopped, covers removed and bearing
checked. If o.k. machine can be started on automatic and run
10. To stop the machine, always make sure the machine is unloaded and drains opened before
stopping unless automatic drains and unloaders are fitted.

What is the purpose of rocker gear on an engine?

To operate the inlet and exhaust valves on the cylinder head

Why does a centrifugal cargo pump have a relief valve?

A centrifugal cargo pump requires a relief valve, as the working pressure of the pump has to tie in with the
working pressure of the cargo pipe work.

Draw the timing diagram of 4-stroke engine?

Crankcase inspection: frequency, procedure and reasons they are carried out?
The frequency may vary from different engine manufacturers but it’s roughly around 5000 hrs.
Also inspection are carried out after any work has taken place in the crankcase
Procedure is as follows:
1. Remove crankcase doors from the both sides of the engine
2. Relief valves can be checked at the same time as the are off
3. Inspect condition of all bolt locking devices, replace any damaged components
4. Turn engine over using turning gear. ENSURE NO ONE is in crankcase while doing this and that
the indicator cocks are open check condition of camshaft driving gears.
5. Start main l.o.pump and check oil flow from bearings and piston cooling parts. Check for any
leakage from internal oil pipes and galleries.
6. Check for any damage of cam shaft lobes
7. Check for any evidence of water leakage from lower cylinder liner ‘o’ rings
8. Replace any damaged crankcase door joints
9. Record any defects

What is the first indication of leaking exhaust valves?

A rise of exhaust gas temp at the outlet of the valve

What instrument measures small changes in crankcase pressure?

A manometer

What is an indication in the exhaust gas of good combustion?

Grey smoke indicates good combustion

If there was no water in gauge glass after blowing down?

Shut down the boiler immediately and use easing gear to relieve boiler pressure

What procedure does the duty engineer follow when answering an alarm on UMS?
Answer alarm; ensure wearing correct clothing before entering engine room
Never use the ship’s lift, if fitted use the stairs
Once in the engine room inform bridge
Answer alarm, rectify problem
Then inform bridge when vacating the engine room

What is the diffuser plate in turbo charger?

It is found on the compressor side, it converts the velocity? Kinetic energy from the compressor into the
pressure
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How can exhaust valve leakage be confirmed?

By taking an indicator card. The card should be taken with fuel ‘ON’ and ‘OFF’ the unit. If the valve is
leaking, the compression pressure and maximum pressure will be low.

How many PPMS can be pumped in marpol restricted areas?

15PPM

What is the purpose of the cylinder relief valve and operating pressure?
It is designed to relieve pressures in excess of 10% – 20%above normal
The operation of this device indicates a fault in the engine which should be discovered and corrected
immediately

What would you do in the event of a scavenge fire?

If a scavenge fire were to start, the 2 main objectives are to confine the scavenge fire to the scavenge space
and to minimize damage to the engine.
In the event of the fire breaking out, inform bridge that the engine is to be brought to dead slow ahead and
also inform the chief engineer.
The fuel should be cut off to that particular cylinder.
The cylinder l.o. should be increased to prevent seizure and wear.
If fixed fire fighting is attached to the scavenge trunking this can be brought into operation, depending on
severity of situation. But in most cases the fire will generally subside within 5 – 15 minutes.
Once the fire is out and navigational circumstances allow it, the engine must be stopped.
Do not open scavenge space doors or crankcase doors before site of fire has cooled down. When opening
up, care must be taken to keep clear of any flame.
After opening up all scavenge spaces must be thoroughly cleaned and all debris removed. The piston rods
and cylinder liner should be examined for surface blemishes, straightness etc, and the diaphragm glands
(stuffing box) examined to ensure that t they are operational and not damaged.
Also piston rings should be checked, as blow by may have been the ignition source of the fire. If possible
the piston head in question should be renewed at the earliest possible moment and the damaged unit
overhauled.
On engines fitted with tie bolts, it may be necessary to retighten the bolts adjacent to the fire.
When starting the engine, care must be taken after switching on the fuel to the cylinder in question, and that
also the cylinder l.o. quantities are reduced to normal.

What causes white smoke from combustion I.e., in the exhaust?

The presence of water

What is the regulation regarding use of evaporators in shore?

Evaporators should not be used within 20 miles from shore, due to risk of pollutants being taken into the
f.w.system

How would you blow down a boiler gauge glass?

Close the water and steam cocks on the gauge glass and open the drain
Then open the steam cock – a strong jet of steam should be seen from the drain.
Close the steam cock
Open the water cock -- a strong jet of water should be observed from the drain
Close the water cock and then close the drain
Then open the water cock, the water will rise in the gauge above normal level
Then open the steam cock, the water should then settle down, finding its correct level.

If only one inch of water was observed in the gauge glass (only one gauge glass) after blowing down the
boiler gauge glass, what would you do?
Reduce firing rate of burner and increase feed water flow to boiler by starting another feed pump.

How would you get water in the combustion spaces?

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From cracked exhaust valve gages, cracked cylinder head and liner, fuel contamination via fuel injector and
under cooling of the charge/scavenge air

What safety devices are fitted to a start air line?

Non return valve, flame traps/arrestors, bursting discs and safety valves

What is the importance of ‘M’ notices?

‘M’ notices are important as they convey very useful information such as,
Merchant shipping notices (MSNs): which will only be used to convey mandatory information, which
must be complied with under British legislation
Merchant guidance notices (MGNs): which will provide advice and guidance to relevant parties in order
to improve the safety of shipping and of life at sea
Marine information notes (MINs): which will provide information to as more limited audience such as
training establishments or equipment manufacturers

What is the correct method of starting and stopping as centrifugal pump?

The correct way to start and stop a centrifugal pump is with the discharge valve from the pump closed, i.e.
less load on the motor when starting and stopping

What are the properties of heavy fuel oil?

High viscosity, long ignition delay i.e., low cetane index

What would cause the level of the l.o.sump or drain tank to rise?
Water entering the oil, or fuel or even a l.o filling valve passing

What are looking when you pull a piston?

When you pull a piston, you are looking for any damage to the piston crown, including cracks,
The condition of piston rings are checked, plus piston ring grooves, check for any scuffing of piston skirt
Check condition of top end bearing, bush and gudgeon pin, p [plus clearance between pin and bush
Check lubrication bores are clear on under side of piston

Draw a boiler gauge glass

What would you do if you had high j.c.w. temperature?

Inform bridge and then reduce engine load and investigate problem which could be insufficient flow
through cooler due to fouled cooler or faulty thermostatic valve

What would be your first indication that there was water in the sump\/
Your first indication would be from your l.o.puriofier or even possibly from water in l.o.tests if done
regularly

What is cross flow scavenging?

In cross flow scavenging, the incoming air is directed upwards, pushing the exhaust gases before it. The
exhaust gases then travel down and out of the exhaust port. Advantage is no exhaust valve.

What safety devices are fitted to the main engine crankcase?

Explosion door/relief valves and oil mist detectors.

How does oil mist detector work?

The oil mist detector uses a photoelectric cell to measure small increases in oil density. A motor driven fan
continuously draws samples of crankcase oil mist through a measuring tube. An increased meter reading
and an alarm will result if any crack case sample contains excessive mist when compared to either clean air
or to the other crankcase compartments. The rotary valve which draces the samples then stops to indicated
the suspect crankcase compartment.
The alarm will cause an engine slowdown or shut down.
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How is 15 PPM reached in an oily water separator?

15 ppm is achieved in an oily water separator by normally passing through a 2 stage separator where in the
first stage oil/water is passed into the coarse separating compartment. Here some oil will rise to the top of
the compartment due to its lower density. Heating coils may aid this. The remaining oil/water will flow
down into the fine separating compartment and moves slowly between catch plates. More oil will separate
out onto the underside of these plates and travel outwards until free water (usually being at 100ppm at this
stage) will then pass to the second stage of the separator which is filter unit comprising of 2 filter units.
The first filter stage removes physical impurities present and promotes some fine separation. The second
stage filter uses coalescer inserts to achieve the final de-oiling, oil/water mixture leaving this stage at less
than 15 ppm.

What could start a scavenge fire?

The main cause of a scavenge fire is the fouling of scavenge spaces by the blow by products of incomplete
combustion caused by incorrect cylinder lubrication, faulty fuel injection equipment, accumulation of such
mixtures in the scavenge space can be set alight by sparks or flame blow by

What would prevent water rushing out of the boiler, if the gauge glass were to break?
A ball valve is fitted below the gauge glass tube to shut off the water

What type of clutch is used on an electrical windlass?

A dog clutch

What can you do to prevent scavenge fires?

Conscientious maintenance of the engine and regular inspection and cleaning of scavenge air spaces will
help prevent scavenge fire up

What are the symptoms of a scavenge fire?

When a scavenge fire has broken out the scavenge air temp and the exhaust temperature of the unit in
question will considerably and in some cases the turbocharger may start surging. Even hot spots on the
scavenge trunking can be found

What are the rough l.o pressure on the following on a 2 stroke engine?
Piston cooling 6 – 7 bar
Cross headbearing 4 – 5 bar
Main bearing 2.5 – 3 bar

What percentage of engine speed does the over speed operate at?
10 – 15 % maximum speed

How often the emergency steering is tested?

At least once in every 3 months

What is the purpose of the crankcase oil mist detector?

To detect the build up of oil mist in the crankcase generated from a hot spot. The detector will then give an
alarm, either shut down or slow the engine down and give and indication of which unit the oil mist is
generated

What procedure would you go through before taking over a watch?

Before taking over a watch a round of the machinery space should be taken, checking various temps and
pressures of machinery. Also checking oil and tank levels.
Check the log book and ensure all parameters are met. Also ensure that you understand any instructions that
are handed over to you i.e, any machinery that might be out of service

How is medium speed engine reverse (without CPP)

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In medium speed diesel engines, reversing is achieved by the use of duplicate cams for the air inlet valves,
exhaust valves and fuel pumps. Air start distributor timing is also changed by means of camshaft movement
or by a directional air supply being admitted to the start air distribution, to reposition cams
To engage correct cams for ahead and astern movements the camshaft slides axially in its bearings. This
movement is controlled by the camshaft reversing gear, which is normally a servo piston. Motion of the
piston being directly transmitted to the camshaft.
Note: in a slow speed, only duplicate fuel cams required.

What does a positive displacement pump require that a centrifugal pump does not?
A relief valve

Procedure for handing over a watch?

The engineer should not vacate the engine room until his relief arrives
He should acquaint the relieving engineer of any abnormal operating conditions that have occurred during
the watch
Any orders from the bridge, recorded in the log book should be pointed out
Instructions from the senior engineer should be passed on
Any repairs should be reported together with information on any machinery that has been dismantled
The presence of any other members of ship’s staff in the engine room should be reported
The engineer much ascertain that his relief if fit and able before vacating the machinery space

What would you do in the case of a crankcase explosion?

When the alarm sounds, the engine speed must be reduced to slow and permission obtained to stop the
engine.
Inform chief engineer
When an engine has stopped under alarm conditions under no circumstances must any doors or inspection
windows be opened
Oil should continue to be circulated and time allowed for the hot spot to cool.
The early opening of doors could cause an explosion due to ingress of air
During cooling down period the engine room staff must keep clear of the side of the engine fitted with
explosion doors.
After a period of at least 20 minutes, stop l.o.pump, cut off all air and engage turning gear
The access doors should then be opened and personal must keep clear of possible flames. Under no
circumstances should naked lights be used nor should anyone be permitted to smoke
Examination should then take place for any squeezed out bearing metal or loose bearing metal in the
crankcase
Heat discolored metal parts or blistering of paintwork must be investigated. The ceiling of the crankcase
and guide bars should also be observed. If the crankcase is clear, the camshaft drive and main thrust bearing
should be inspected for signs of overheating. Should any damage be found, then a permanent repair must be
put in hand immediately
After repair, low should be check for free flow. The engine should then run in i.e, 15 minutes, and then
check components for signs of overheating then half an hour at half speed, again check, the one hour full
speed then check again.
Note: varying times have been quoted for the cooling down period and no set rules are available but the
longer the time taken, the greater the safety factor

What causes blue smoke in combustion i.e. in the exhaust?

Excessive l.o.was being burnt in combustion

How would you know an air start valve was leaking or passing?
The adjacent start air line for that valve would become very hot

What would happen to the amperes of a centrifugal pump if it were with the discharge valve shut?
The amps would drop as there would be no load on the pump

What causes black smoke from combustion i.e. in the exhaust?

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Black smoke would indicate faulty fuel injection equipment or it would indicate insufficient air supply

What would you do the j.c.w.temperature started to rise?

Inform bridge and reduce load on engine, investigate problem, which would be a fouled cooler

How is fuel supplied from fuel pump to the injector?

Through double wall/skin high pressure pipes

What preventive mai9ntenece should be frequently done to diesel engine start air receiver?
They should be drained of accumulated moisture

Name main engine shut downs

Low l.o.pressure
High j.c.w. temperature
High main bearing temperature
Over speed and
Oil mist detector

What is the pressure between the fuel injector and fuel pump?
250 – 350 bar

Why is overlap necessary on air start valves?

Overlap is necessary as if there was no overlap it would be possible for the engine to stop in a position
where no valves are open i.e. unable to start

F.w.supplied for drinking and culinary purposes must meet specified purity standards. How is this
achieved?
These standards are met by passing the few. Through as hydrochorinator where the water is sterilized by an
excess dose of chlorine provides as hypochlorite tablets. It is then dechlorinated in a bed of activated
carbon to remove excess chlorine. Any color, taste and odour which was present in the water, will also be
removed by the carbon.
Another method is to pass the f.w. through an ultraviolet.

Describe the different types of cooling systems i.e. s.w. cooling system and central cooling system
A S.W. cooling system is an arrangement that uses individual coolers for l.o, j.w and the piston c.w. system.
Each cooler being circulated by s.w
As where some modern ships use a central cooling system with only one large S.W. circulated cooler. This
cools a supply of f.w. which then circulates to the other individual coolers. With less equipment in contact
with s.w, the corrosion problems are much reduced in this system.

Why carry out boiler feed water tests?

To prevent and detect contamination of the feed water i.e, a build up of scale occurring, which could reduce
boiler efficiency and can cause serious overheating.
Also to prevent corrosion
Prevent carryover where soluble salts and suspended solids are carried over with steam

How many pumps are there in the engine room that you can pump bilges with?
A bilge pump which is normally positive displacement. The others may vary from ship to ship but can be
the ballast pump, g.s.pump and main S.W. pump. These pumps are only used for pumping bilges in the
event of emergency and have an emergency bilge suction/injection valve connected to them

What could cause an excessive high pressure in a refrigeration system?

High pressure could be caused by lack of cooling or a fouled condenser or even overcharge, but this is
unlikely

What would you do in the event of oil spill?

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Raise the alarm, inform bridge and chief engineer

There should be a set drill for oil spills, which is practiced regularly
If possible contain the spill on deck and start clean up procedures using appropriate oil spill equipment
If the oil has split into the sea: if in port, port authorities should be informed.
If at sea: coast guard should be informed.
The time of spill should be recorded with the place or position of ship at the time of spill along with
approximate quantity and type of oil
Circumstances of discharge or escape would be logged in oil record book and engine room log book

What types of pumps are used for pumping bilges in an emergency?

High capacity centrifugal pumps (mostly main cooling s.w.pump)

What would you do if you had a high chloride level in the boiler?
To reduce the chloride level in the boiler the boiler would be blown down, thus allowing fresh feed to the
boiler

What are the normal j.c.w temperatures and pressures?

Normal j.c.w. pressures are between 2- 3 bar
Temperatures 70 – 80 deg cent
Alarm at 85 deg cent
Shutdown at 90deg cent

Describe the boiler hot well and cascade tank. Why is it fitted and how would you trace an oil leak?
The boiler hot well is where the condensate drains return from the condenser. This condensate may be
contaminated as some of the drains are from f.o.heating systems or tank heating system. Normally these
drains will pass to the hot well via an observation tank, which permits inspection of drain and their
discharge to an oily bilge if contaminated. The hot well tank is also arranged with internal baffles to bring
about preliminary oil separation from any contaminated fuel or drains. The feed water is then passed
through charcoal or cloth filters to complete the cleaning process. Any overflow from the hot well passes to
the feed water tank which provides additional feed water to the system when required. Feed pumps take
suction from the hot well to the boiler.
To trace an oil leak to the system, various heating coils to tanks would be shut off in turn until the leak
stopped, thus indicating which heating coil was leaking.

What is the pressure of a start air receiver?

25 – 40 bar depending on the type of engine

How do you purify h.f.o?

Heavy fuel oils purified using a centrifugal separator, which operated by the principle of centrifugal force
separating 2 liquids in this case fuel oil and water by means of a cylindrical interface between the two. The
positioning of this interface being very important for the correct operation

How would you prepare a main engine for sea?

This may vary from engine to engine
Have a visual check all around the engine
Start the engine l.o.pump; engage turning gear and turn the engine ensuring indicator cocks are open
J.c.w. heating should be on ensuring the engine is warmed through circulate by a circulating pump
The F.O. booster pump should be running, circulating fuel around the system.
Note: if maneuvering on high viscosity F.O. the fuel should be heated and circulated around the injectors to
give the correct viscosity for the grade of the fuel in use.
Ensure fuel injectors are vented and primed. Drain any water from air start receivers and starting air
manifold also control system
Check jacket heater tank level
Check oil levels, sump, governor, turbocharger, cylinder l.o.tank, rocker arm if on 4 stroke.
Operate cylinder lubricators by hand
 12

Check f.o.service tank i.e., drain off water/sludge

Disengage turning gear
Inform bridge that you are about to blow the engine over on air – they will give you permission. Open air
start valve from receiver
Once engine is blown over on air, close indicator cocks start j.c.w pumps, shut off jacket heating and
circulating pump
If two stroke engine, start auxiliary blower
Inform bridge you are ready to start engine
Start engine and s.w .cooling pump
Have a good visual check around the engine and check all parameters are correct
Inform bridge that you are ready for stand by

Why is simultaneous injection of f.o and starting air into main engine cylinder undesirable and how it is
prevented?
As it could lead to an explosion in the start air system
It is prevented by means of interlock, which prevents fuel being injected when the air start auto valve is
open. The interlock operated a stop solenoid, which keeps the fuel rack to zero position

What is the primary function of expansion valve in refrigeration system?

To regulate the flow of refrigerant from the high pressure side to the low pressure side of the system
The pressure drop causes the saturation temperature to drop enabling it to boil off at the low temp of the
evaporator

How would you know a refrigeration system was undercharged?

Undercharge will show as a low compressor pressure and large bubbles in the liquid line sight glass

What is compression and explain what happens AIR IS COMPRESSED?

Compression is where the air that is drawn into the cylinder is compressed on the upward stroke of the
piston both inlet and exhaust valves being closed on this stroke. As the air is compressed by the rise of the
piston the air temp is consequently raised. As the piston reaches the TDC fuel is injected causing ignition
and very rapid rise in pressure of the gases forcing the piston down

What action would you take in the event of the main engine oil sump level rising? What could be the
problem and how would you fix it?
The action to be taken would depend on how fast the level was rising and what was causing it to rise.
It could be due to water or fuel entering the sump, the engine would have to be stopped as soon as it was
safe to do so
Tests should be carried out to tell if tit were water or fuel
If it were fuel, you can normally smell this in the oil, but a flow stick test can be done
Water has a tendency to form the color of the oil, depending on extent of contamination
If it were fuel the most likely cause would be faulty injector therefore it would be changed
It were water it could be coming from cracked liner or liner ‘O’ rings, therefore possible liner change to
solve the problem
The oil may have to be changed depending on extent of contamination but the l.o purifier may be able to
cope with it

How would you know if you had a cracked liner or cylinder head?
Your jacket water header tank would start to fall. Possibly higher temperatures on the unit
On a medium speed 4 stroke engine if the liner was cracked you would get water contamination of the
sump
On a 2 stroke engine there would be possible water leakage from stuffing box drains.

Explain the bilge system from bilge wells to overboard?

How would you test for a leaking air start valve in port?
 13

First ensure all the engine indicator cocks are open for all cylinders then isolate the air supply to the timing
valves, this will ensure no pilot air is supplied to the air start valves when the auto valve is opened. Then
operate the auto valve, any air discharge from the indicator cocks will indicate a leaking or pass8ing air
start valve.

How do you start up/ and parallel a generator?

First check engine oil levels such as l.o.sump, turbocharger oil level, governor oil level, rocker arm bank oil
level (if fitted)
Check j..c.water header tank level
Ensure indicator cocks are open, start up l.o.priming pump then bar engine over (ensure turning bar is
removed)
Kick engine on air close indicator cocks
Start the engine
Check all parameters are correct--- l.o.pressure/temperature, j.c.w. pr/temp
Check s.w cooling pr and rocker arm l.o pr
Allow engine to warm up and when satisfied that everything is o.k
Engine may be paralleled as follows
Ensure the voltage of the machine to be paralleled is the same as the bus bar voltage. Ensure the
frequencies of both machine are same (the frequency of the incoming machine can be adjusted using the
speed control)
Select the machine to tbe paralleled on the synchroscope selector. The synchroscope should then start to
rotate; it should be rotating in a clockwise direction slowly. If it is rotating in an anticlockwise direction,
this means the speed of the incoming machine is too slow or if it is rotating fast clockwise, the speed of the
incoming machine is too fast, this is adjusted using the speed control.
When the needle of the synchroscope is rotating in the clockwise direction slowly, the breaker of the
incoming machine should be closed.
When the needle of the synchroscope is at the 5 to 12 position, this will allow the incoming machine to take
a slight amount of load when coming on the switch board and also prevent the machine tripping on reverse
power

What is the purpose of volute casing in a turbocharger?

To change the air velocity into pressure.
It also ensures a constant velocity of air leaving the turbocharger by accommodating for the gradual
increase in quantity of air that builds up at the circumference of the compressor

How is the j.c.w. temp controlled?

It is controlled by means of a thermostatic valve normally known as an ‘AMOT VALVE’. This operates by
diverting j.w. through the cooler when too hot or by passing the cooler when cooler. The amot valves
normally use wax elements to operate the valve

What are the reasons for not enough scavenge/charge air?

Blocked air filter on turbocharger or a faulty turbocharger

Give a shipboard use for grey cast iron and the properties that make it suitable for this use?fresh water
pump casings
It has fairly good machining qualities and is also inexpensive

What would you do if l.o temp started to fall?

Reduce S.W. cooling flow through the l.o cooler by throttling the S.W. discharge valve from the cooler

What types of water tests would you do on a l.p. auxiliary boiler/economizer?

1. Chloride test
2. PH_- alkalinity test
3. Total dissolved solids test _ using hydrometer
4. Phenolphthalein alkalinity test
5. Hardness test
 14

6. Phosphate reserve

What is the difference between clarifier and purifier?

A purifier removes water as where a clarifier removes solid impurities. In some cases, both are used for
separation purposes, firstly the oil is purified, then clarified

What is the purpose of a fusible plug on an air receiver and at what temp is it designed to melt?
The purpose of fusible plug is to act as a safety feature to release compressed air from the receiver in the
event of a fire in the vicinity.
The fusible plug is designed to melt a t 150 deg cent

What would cause excessive exhaust temp?

On a single cylinder it could be an incorrect fuel pump timing i.e. late injection causing after burn, too
much fuel, leaking fuel injector or burnt out exhaust valve. If all exhaust temps were high, it could be due
to high scavenge temp, charge air cooler fouled, turbocharger air filters dirty or fouled, high engine load

Give a shipboard use of al.bronze and the properties that make it suitable for this use?
Pump impellers
It has good wear, fatigue and corrosive properties

Where on board a ship would you find information on the carriage of hazardous substances?
Information on the carriage of hazardous substances would be found in the IMDG (International Maritime
Dangerous Goods Code) which would normally be found on the bridge.

What are the crankcase pressure relief valves for?

These valves act as a safeguard to relieve excessive crankcase pressures, which may occur from oil vapor
igniting in the occurrence of an engine component overheating. They also prevent flames from being
omitted from the crankcase and must also be self closing to stop the return of atmospheric air into the
crankcase

What would you do if you found that you had a cracked liner or cylinder head?
Inform bridge that engine would have to be stopped and of the situation, also inform chief engineer and
repair the unit as soon as it is safe to do so

Why purge the boiler furnace?

A boiler furnace is purged before burner operations to ensure that there is no unburned fuel or gases in the
furnace, which may cause a blow back. Purging should be carried out for at least two minutes

Give a rough indication of engine speed ranges i.e., slow, medium and high speed
Slow 100 – 150 rpm
Medium 300 – 850 rpm
High 850 – 3000 rpm

What is uniflow scavenging?

With uniflow scavenging the incoming air enters at the lower end of the cylinder and leaves at the top. The
outlet at the top of the cylinder being a large exhaust valve. The advantages of uniflow is the simple design
of the liner and it is the most efficient

What is the critical and barred range of an engine?

This is where the speed of an engine in rpm, at which the resonant condition occurs, and is referred to as
critical speed. The high stresses associated with resonant condition start to build up as critical speed is
approached and do not come back to a safe value until speed is beyond critical speed. The unsafe stresses
either side of critical speed are known as flank stresses either side of of critical speed are known as flank
stresses this is known as the barred speed range. The engine must not be continuously operated at speeds
within the barred range
 15

How does generator l.o.copewith blow by?

Generator l.o. cope with blow by, by having a TBN of 20 – 30 (TBN standing for Total Base Number which
is an indication of the quantity of alkali, i.e., base, which is available to neutralize acids from blow by)

Why is a j.c.w. Safety valve fitted on air compressor?

It is fitted to relieve excess pressure in the cooling system should a cooler tube burst and compressed air
escape

Give a ship board use of spheroidal cast iron and the properties that make it suitable for this use?
Cylinder heads and liners
It has high compressive strength qualities and also good wears resistive qualities

How many PPMS can be pumped in ‘other than’ Marpol restricted areas?
100 PPM

What are the Marpol restricted area?

The Mediterranean sea, Baltic sea, Black sea, Red sea, Gulf areas, North sea, Antarctic, wider Caribbean
region including gulf of Mexico and the Caribbean sea

Name the 2 most common types of coolers

Shell and plate type coolers
Shell being where a tube stack is used and fitted into a shell and closed at either end with end covers
Plate being made up of a number of pressed plates surrounded by seals and held together in a frame

Why is gear pump used for pumping oil, while a centrifugal pump is used for pumping water?
A gear pump is used for pumping oil as it has a high suction lift, is self priming, able to produce the
discharge pressure required by the system and can handle large amounts of vapor or entrained gases. If is
also able to pump high viscous fluids
A centrifugal pump is used for pumping water, as it is unable to pump high viscous fluids such as oil; the
centrifugal pump is not self priming

What should you do to ensure that there is no water leakage into the engine cylinder before preparing main
engine for se?
The engine should be turned using turning gear with indicator cocks open, keeping a close eye on the cocks
for any sign of water discharge
Immediately prior to starting, the engine should be kicked on air
Note: 2 stroke engines should be turned at least one revolution where a 4 stroke should be turned 2
revolutions

Explain your company’s bunkering procedures?

Most companies will have bunkering procedures which will consists of a check list containing procedures
such as
Ensure vessel is securely moored
Scuppers are plugged
There are communications between both parties
No smoking signs placed
No hot work is taking place in the vicinity
Oil spill gear is available
Correct valves are opened for bunkering
The overflow tank is empty
This check list is then signed by both parties and the chief engineer
The time of bunkers starting and finishing are then recorded
The amount to each tank
Place of bunkering
Type of F.O. bunkered, this is also recorded in the Oil Record Book
 16

Note: before bunkering a set of sounding should be taken, also during bunkering to ensure fuel is going to
correct tanks and at the end of bunkering
Sample of fuel bunkered should be taken throughout bunkering for analysis

What are the uses of centrifugal pumps, positive displacement pumps and gear pumps on board a ship?
Centrifugal pumps s.w.cooling pumps,j.c.w. pumps, boiler feed pumps (multistage pumps)
Positive displacement pumps bilge pumps. steering gear pumps, cargo pumps
Gear pumps f.o.booster pumps, f.o.transfer pumps

What would happen if the l.o.pr dropped too low on a pump?

If the l.o.pr were to drop too low on the l.o.pump, the stand by l.o.pump would cut in

What is loop scavenging in a 2 stroke engine?

It is where the incoming air passes over the piston, crown, and then rises towards the cylinder head forcing
exhaust gases down and out the exhaust ports, just above the inlet port. The advantage of loop is that no
exhaust valve is required

What type of safety valve is fitted to a boiler and at what pressure does it lift?
High lift safety valve s and are designed to operate at 10% boiler working pressure and must also be
capable of releasing all the steam the boiler can produce without the pr rising more than 10% over a set
period. 15 min for tank boilers and 7 minutes for water tube. The spring pr once set is fixed and sealed by a
surveyor.
Note: the above test is known as the accumulation of pr test

Give possible reasons why the engine room bilge pump may not be able to empty bilges?
The strum box from the bilge may be fouled. Bilge pump suction filter may be blocked
A valve may be left open from an empty bilge
There could be a hole in the system on the suction side of the pump
Depending on type of bilge pump, the pump suction or discharge valves may need overhauling

SAFETY
What is the purpose of the deck seal on an inert gas system?
To act as a non return valve and prevent the back flow of gases, i.e., hazardous to non hazardous

Regarding the energy bilge injection valve what is its relevant size compared to the main S.W. injection
valve?
The valve size of the emergency bilge injection must not be less than two third the size of the main S.W.
injection valve

What safety equipment should there be at a bunker station?

A foam fire extinguisher, oil spill gear, such as spill absorbent and there should also be communication of
some sort

What is regarded as an enclosed space?

It is a space that can not be assumed to contain oxygen.
There are spaces such as a duct keel, a D.B.tank, a coffer dam, boiler etc

What is the duration of 9 liters foam fire extinguishers?

Approximate duration of around 50 seconds

Once a fire detector has detected or sensed a fire, what happens?

 17

Associated with fire detectors is a circuit connected to an alarm panel, which is usually situated on the
bridge, where the alarm is accepted, usually there is a repeater panel in the engine control room. The panel
giving an indication on which deck and zone the detector was activated. Someone will then be sent to
investigate and verify if it is a fire or a a false alarm

Where would you find heat detector and why?

In places such as the galley, where other types of detectors would give false alarms.

What are boundary cooling and the reasons for it? it should be remembered that a fire exists in 3
dimensions and therefore has 6 sides, there can be transmitted through bulkheads due to radiant heat, i.e.,
causing combustible materials in adjacent compartments to catch fire, therefore this radiant heat is
prevented by boundary cooling of all sides of the compartment on fire, using water spray hoses

Explain the procedure for lowering a life boat with gravity davits?
The life boat is held in against a cradle by ropes called gripes and the cradle is secured by pins, with the
gripes and securing pins (sometimes known as harbor pins) are removed and released, the winch hand
brake can be released to enable the cradle to slide down and over the ship’s side. A ‘Tricing - in Pennant
(wire) bring the life boat close to the ship’s side to enable it to be boarded.
The browsing lines which fasten to each end of the life boat are then used to hold it into the ship’s side, the
‘Tricing – in pennant’ then being released
A painter is then led from the forward end of the life boat and attached somewhere forward of the life boat
on the ship. Life boat plugs are then secured
Once the crews are on board the life boat the browsing lines are released and the life boat is lowered to the
water.
The engine is started, falls released and then the painter

On what type of fire would you use a dry chemical powder fire extinguisher?
On all classes of fire, but it has no cooling effect

How is ‘water hammer prevented?’

In order to prevent water hammer it is necessary too open up drains on steam lines bei9ng brought into use.
The water must be completely drained so it leaves the line clear. The steam valve is then cracked open so
the line is heated and brought up to near working temp. Any condensate found during this process drains
out of the line via the drains previously opened. The valve may then be opened and drains closed.

How do you carryout a face seal check on a breathing apparatus set?

Don face mask, tighten straps properly and turn air supply on. Then switch air supply off and breath in the
mask should stick to face. Note pr gauge should not drop rapidly either. Switch air supply back on.

State the regulations regarding the emergency fire pump?

It is to be located remote from the machinery space and with independent means of power, which could be
a diesel engine or from the emergency switch board

What should be used with breathing apparatus sets when entering a space or compartment?
A time in/ time out board should be used. This board will normally have a built in clock. On this board the
time the wearer enter a space is noted, plus bottle number and pr, the time the wearer is due out is
calculated as the time the low pr whistle operates at. This gives the wearer time to exit.

What is the principle operation of a flame detector?

As flame has a characteristic flicker frequency of 25 Hz, use is made of this fact to trigger an alarm.
Flickering radiation from flames reaching the detector lens/filter unit, which only allows infra red rays to
pass and be focused upon the cell. The signal from the cell goes into the selective amplifier, which is tuned
to 25Hz, then to a time delay unit (to minimize incidence of flame alarms) then to an alarm circuit.
 18

What is a good practice before using a dry chemical powder extinguisher/

It is good practice to give a DCP extinguisher a shake before use, as the extinguisher could have been lying
for a while causing the powder to clog up

What is done to ensure that a life boat engine will start when needed?
At least once every 2 weeks, but better still once a week the life boat engine should be run, all fuel and oil
levels checked and the gear box should be operated i.e., engine run astern and ahead to check operation
Most engines are air cooled, but some are a combination of air and water, in which case water level
checked and if operating in cold climates anti freezing levels also.
Larger life boat engines will be battery started, therefore condition of battery must be checked i.e, specific
gravity of electrolyte and that electrolyte is covering cell plates.

Describe a SCBA set?

Set usually consists of one or two cylinders of compressed air kept in a harness, which is carried on the
back. Cylinders usually being charged to a pressure of around 200 – 240 bar. The high pr air is fed through
a reducing valve and then to a demand valve, which can be set in positive pr mode, that will supply a const
demand of air or in demand mode, which will only supply air as the wearer demands. A non return valve
permits breathing out to atmosphere.
The set incorporates a warming whistle that sounds on low air pr
A standard cylinder will allow for about 20 – 25 mins. Operatrion, but this will also depend on a few
factors, such as work load of wearer.

Describe an inert gas generator?

The inert gas generator burns fuel in designed quantities to produce perfect combustion. This produces an
exhaust gas, which is largely nitrogen and CO 2 with very small oxygen content. The exhaust gases pass to
a cooling and washing chamber to remove sulphur and excess carbon.
The washed or scrubbed gas is now inert and passes to a distribution system for fire fighting. The complete
unit is arranged to be independently operated in order to supply inert gas for as long as the fuel supply lasts.
On tankers the IG can be supplied and used to blanket the oil cargo during discharging operations. Empty
tanks are filled with gas and inert gas is blown out when oil is loaded.

Explain and sketch a funnel inert gas?

In a boiler funnel inert gas system, exhaust gas is taken from the boiler uptakes and passed through a
scrubber tower where the gas is cleaned with sulphur and excess carbon being removed. The gas which by
then is considered inert and mainly contains nitrogen and carbon dioxide with less than 5% oxygen is then
supplied via blowers and deck seal which acts as a non return valve along deck pipes to cargo banks. The
inert gas being used to blanket the oil cargo during discharging operations, empty tanks are filled with gas
and the inert gas is blown out when oil is loaded.

What are the safety features fitted to a battery carbon dioxide system?
A stop valve to stop discharge of carbon dioxide to the machinery space. A safety valve between the
starting cylinders and operating piston. This is to prevent operation o f the system due to leaking starting
bottles
Pr alarm in discharge line to give an indication of an accident escape or leaking carbon dioxide bottle from
the battery

The main engine cyl.l.o.tank is empty oil drums are on the main deck beside run down pipes to the tank and
air is hardy. What do you do?
If need be, the engine should be stopped to allow filling of the tank. Under no circumstances should you
use the air hose to pressurize the drums to speed up the process. Oil drums are not a pressure vessel and it
could lead to a fatality

On what type of vessel would you expect to find a bulk carbon di oxide system and what is normally
incorporated into these systems?
You would normally expect to find a bulk carbon dioxide system on a cargo or Ro – Ro type vessel where
hold areas need fire fighting protection and the cargo space system is normally arranged for smoke
 19

detection, alarm and carbon dioxide flooding. Small air sampling pipes from the individual cargo holds are
fed into a cabinet on the bridge. Air is drawn from each hold by a small fan and each pipe is identified for
its particular hold. If smoke is drawn into the cabinet from one of the holds it will set off an alarm. The
smoke is also passed into the wheel house where it can be detected by personnel on watch.
The location of the fire can be identified in the cabinet and the hold distribution valve below the cabinet is
operated. This valve shuts off the sampling pipe from the cabinet and opens it to the carbon di oxide main,
leading to the bulk carbon dioxide, discharge manifold. A chart indicating the amount of time the release
valve is opened for and this is done by first opening the main discharge valve to the manifold setting off
carbon dioxide alarms

What is the gas analysis after the scrubber tower on an inert gas system?
OXYGEN 0 - 1%
CARBON MONOOXIDE 0%
CARBON DIOXIDE 14 - 15%
NITROGEN 85%

Where is carbon dioxide extinguishers not permitted?

In the living quarters of the accommodation
Note: within the accommodation block carbon di oxide extinguishers are available in the cargo control
room, bridge and radio room where dry powder could damage this apparatus.

What advantage do inert gas producing units used for fire fighting installations have over carbon dioxide
and halon systems?
It has the advantage of being able to continuously produce inert gas. A bottle storage system, such as
carbon dioxide or halon flooding is a ‘one shot’ fire extinguisher which leaves a ship unprotected until
further gas supplies can be found

What is and where would you find the international shore connections?
This is a standard size flange which is fitted with a suitable coupling for the ships fire hoses. The flange is
slotted in order to fit any shore side fire main and enable water to be brought on board ship lying alongside.
Usually located on the bridge.

Why is a hydrostatic release unit fitted to a life boat?

In the event of the vessel sinking, the hydrostatic release operates at a predetermined water depth, releasing
the life raft lashings, allowing the life raft to float free and inflate

What is the principle operation of a heat detector?

This type of heat detector uses 2 bi metallic strips/coils attached to a vertical support bracket. When temp is
present the bimetallic strips will start to move at a fixed temperature. The first strip will hit a stop, the
second strip continuing to move, thus the contact is made and triggers the alarms

Sketch and describe a bulk carbon dioxide system

The system consisting of a large insulated vessel which holds carbon dioxide a working pressure of 21 bars
at around -20 degree centigrade. To maintain this pressure and temperature a refrigeration circuit is
required. One is stand by the other in operation. As it is essential to maintain pressure in the vessel, a heater
is also incorporated. The system will discharge into the engine room and hold a main discharge valve
opening of this valve will shut down ventilation and activate the carbon dioxide alarm, warning personnel
of the imminent discharge of carbon dioxide, all personnel must then be accounted for and space seated
before discharge of carbon dioxide. With this system, the actual line to the engine room and other spaces
where the carbon dioxide is discharged to will have an individual manual valve and as the system is a bulk
system and the spaces being discharged to will have different areas, a chart will predetermine how long
valve will be opened for to give proper discharge coverage for each space

Fires are classified according to the types of materials which are acting as the source, what are these
classifications?
CLASS A fires burning wood, glass fiber, upholstery and furnishings
 20

CLASS B fires burning liquids such as l.o and fuels

CLASS C fires burning gas fuels such as LPG
CLASS D fires burning combustible materials such as magnesium and aluminium
CLASS E fires burning any of the above materials together with high voltage electricity
Carbon dioxide gas black
Foam white
Water red
BCF green

What happens to the carbon dioxide system in dry-dock?

It must be made inoperable

Why should the boiler not be blown down on finding oil contamination?
The boiler should not be blown down, as this will cover all heating surfaces with oil i.e., insulating the
tubes, heating surfaces

What speed does the centrifugal brake on a life boat winch limit the speed of fall of the life boat to?
Speed of fall of the life boat to fall faster than 36 meter/ minute

Halon fire fighting system, describe it

Sketch and describe a dry powder fire extinguisher?

The outer container containing sodium bicarbonate powder. A capsule of carbon dioxide gas is located
beneath a plunger mechanism in the central cap. On depressing the plunger the carbon dioxide gas forces
the powder up a discharge tube and out of the discharge nozzle.

State the capabilities of ships main fire pump

It must be capable of supplying water to at least two hoses and nozzles in the ship and they must produce a
good jet of water simultaneously

What oxygen level would you regard as safe to enter an enclosed space?
20% or above

Sketch and describe a carbon dioxide extinguisher

A carbon dioxide extinguisher coinsists of a very strong container that is used to store liquid carbon dioxide
under pressure. A central tube provides the outlet passage for the carbon dioxide which is released either by
a plunger bursting disc or a valve operated trigger. The liquid changes to a gas as it leaves the extinguisher
and passes through a swivel pipe or hose to a discharge horn

What are the advantages of halon systems over carbon dioxide systems?
Less halon is needed to extinguish a fire than carbon dioxide therefore less storage space is required
Also the atmospheric in a halon flooded space is not toxic although does contain some highly irritant gases
when extinguishing

What are the 2 brakes on a life boat winch?

A centrifugal brake and a weighted brake known as a ‘dead man’s brake’ i.e, once you let go of the braking
lever, the brake will come into action stopping the fall of the life boat

How is the bilge injection valve brought into operation?

To bring the bilge injection valve into operation during an emergency, the valve is opened fully and the sea
injection or suction valve is fully closed. After it is established the bilge injection valve is capable of
lowering water level in the engine room the sea water injection valve or suction valve may be opened
slowly. This should be done in stages so that the tank tops are not pumped dry as this would cause the sea
water pump to loose suction
 21

Sketch and describe the mechanical foam type fire extinguisher

The outer container is fitted with water. The central container holds a carbon dioxide charge and a foam
solution. A plunger mechanism with a safety guard is located above the central container. When the plunger
is depressed the carbon dioxide released and the foam solution and water mix. They are then forced out
through a special nozzle, which creates the mechanical foam. The extinguisher has an internal pipe and is
operated upright

What is the range of foam fire extinguisher?

Roughly 7 meter

Where are the infra red fire detectors best situated

They are best situated in machinery spaces and boiler rooms, where there is a high risk of fire

Briefly explain how high expansion foam is produced

By means of a foam generator, where from foam concentrate and sea water 100 times quantity is achieved.
The generator blows air through a net sprayed with foam concentrate and water. The vastly expanded foam
is then diverted away to the space to protect. The foam is an insulator ands an absorber of radiant heat; it
also excludes oxygen from the fire

What can be fitted over relief valve vents on a bulk carbon dioxide system to give an indication of leakage?
Balloons

Sketch and describe the chemical foam type of extinguisher

The main container is fitted with sodium bicarbonate solution and a long inner polythene container is fitted
with aluminium sulphate. The inner container is sealed by a cap held in place by a plunger. When the
plunger is unlocked by turning it the cap is released. The extinguisher is the inverted for the two liquids to
mix. Carbon dioxide is produced by the reaction, which pressurizes the container and forces out the foam

What testing and maintenance is done regarding sodas acid and foam extinguisher
The extinguisher containers are pressure vessels therefore require testing.
Containers are initially tested to 25 bar every year for 5 years and thereafter at 4 yearly intervals to 20 bars.
On soda type extinguishers 20% of contents should be discharged per year and replenished with foam type
50% where practical the operating mechanism of portable extinguishers should be examined every 3
months

Sketch and explain a foam fire fighting installation

Here an automatic foam induction system is shown. The automatic inductor unit ensures the correct mixing
of water and foam compound which is then pumped to hydrants, deck or machinery space for use. The
foam compound tank is sealed to protect the contents from deterioration and has linked compound supply
and air vent valves. To operate the system, these 2 linked valves are opened and the fire pump started.
Foam mixing is carefully metered by the automatic inductor unit. The fire pump and compound tank must
be located outside the protected space.

Where would you expect to find a soda acid fire extinguisher? (Water)
Accommodation areas

What is the procedure for entering an enclosed space?

An enclosed space entry permit is required which can only be obtained with the permission of a responsible
officer. This permit will list the conditions to one met before entry. The space should be well ventilated
before entry takes place, before entry oxygen levels must be checked using an oxygen meter. (Oxygen
analyzer)
Another person should remain at the entrance while the person is in the space, to summon assistance if
necessary and there should also be means of communications arranged between the person within the space
and the attendant.
Lifelines and harnesses should be available at the entrance to the space
 22

If the occupant appears to be in danger the attendant should first raise the alarm but should not enter the
space unless equipped with breathing apparatus

What is the reentry procedure once a machinery space has been flooded with carbon dioxide or halon?
Once a carbon dioxide or halon flooding has taken place, the space should be continued to the boundary
cooled
Only when the extinguished fire has been left long enough to cool down can the space be reentered. Note:
early reentry can lead to reignition
Reentry should be done by personnel wearing breathing apparatus taking water spray hoses with them to
cool down any hot surfaces. Note: reentry should also take place from the lowest point remote from the seat
of the fire, if possible. Cooling and smoke dispersal are the first priorities to provide an atmosphere in
which others can operate and gradually bring machinery back into service e
Where the machinery space fire involves electrical equipment then the only dry powder or carbon dioxide
extinguishers can be used until the equipment is isolated

What is the principle operation of a smoke detector?

The above detector of the light scatter type uses a photo cell separated by a barrier from a semiconductor
intermittently flashing light source housed in an enclosure whose containment allows smoke but not light
inside. When smoke is present in the enclosure, light is scattered around the barrier on the photocell and an
alarm is triggered.

What are the two types of carbon dioxide fixed installations used on board ships for fire fighting?
Battery and bulk system

How is a life raft launched?

The life raft is simply launched by releasing it from its lashing a painter is secured to the ship and the life
raft container is thrown over the side. Inflation takes place automatically the container bursting open and
the life raft floats clear. A pressurized cylinder of carbon dioxide is used the inflate the raft. Life raft must
normally be boarded from water level dry if possible

What different types of fire fighting foam are there?

AFFF - synthetic type
Protein based foams (Ox’s blood)
Which can be low expansion for use on decks etc for fire fighting or high expansion which can be used in
machinery spaces?

Fire is the 3 combination factors. What are these?

1. a substance that will burn
2. a supply of oxygen usually from air
3. ignition source

What is the duration and range of a 136 liters trolley foam extinguishers?
15 minutes approximately with a range of around 18 meters

Sketch an auto sprinkler system for the ships accommodation and explain?
The sketch shows an auto sprinkler system which provides a network of sprinkler heads throughout
protected accommodation zones
The sprinkler heads in the accommodation both detect and extinguish fires. The sprinkler heads is closed by
a quartazoid bulb, which contains a liquid that expands considerably on heating, i.e., in the event of a fire.
When excessively heated the liquid expands shatters the bulb and water will issue from the sprinkler heat
causes the water to spray out over a large area
The water is supplied initially from a tank pressurized by compressed air and fresh water. Once the tank
pressure falls as a sprinkler head issues water a salt water pump cuts in automatically to maintain the water
supply as long as possible. The system is initially charged with freshwater to reduce corrosion effects.

What is the water fog based on fire fighting installation?

 23

Unlike conventional sprinkler system utilizing water under low pressure in heavy large dia pipes, the water
fog extinguishing system operates by using water under very high pressure in small bore pipes. This
reduces the weight and volume of the system ands permits easy installation on board
The water fog system produces micro droplets of water, thus a very large cooling surface is created with
only small quantities of water. With this system the amount of water required for successful fire
extinguishing is much less than conventional sprinkler systems. This allows for the use of fresh water as the
medium. Also with the water fog system, the water fog is propelled into hidden spaces just like halon or
carbon dioxide providing the most reliable fire extinguishing.
In accommodation areas this system can use a dual purpose nozzle which incorporates a quartazoid bulb for
detection and extinguishing. The water fog system is also suitable for engine room

What does the opening of the carbon dioxide release cabinet do?
It sets off an alarm in the engine room to warn personnel that the release of carbon dioxide is eminent.
It also stops all ventilation

What checks should be carried out on a breathing set before entering a smoke filled compartment?
The checks should be carried out,
Ensure the bottle is full
Check operation of low pressure whistle and
Face seal check should be carried out

Why is an alarm sounded when carbon dioxide is released into the engine room?
An alarm is sounded to inform personnel in the engine room that the release of carbon dioxide is imminent.
The type of alarm will be visual and sound different from engine room alarm and general alarm.
Carbon dioxide cannot support life

Where would you expect to find a dry powder extinguisher?

It is usually located near electrical equipment in the machinery space and elsewhere on the ship

What must the capability of gravity davits be with regards heel of ship?
The davits must be able to lower the life boats when the ship is heeled to 15 degree on either side

Would you enter an enclosed space if the oxygen levels were recorded as 19% or below?
No

What are the alarms fitted to a bulk carbon dioxide system?

Low level alarm (loss of 5% volume)
High level alarm (increase of contents over 98% volume)
Leakage alarm past main discharge valve alarm when main discharge valve is opened

With regards carbon dioxide extinguishers what testing and maintenance is carried out?
Being a pressure vessel the carbon dioxide extinguisher is initially tested to 207 bar and after every 10
years and after 2 such tests every 5 years
Carbon dioxide extinguisher should also be weighed every 6 months to check for leakage

What can you tell me about halon systems with regards to new installations and existing ones?
SOLAS prohibits the installations of new or portable systems in all ships from 1 st October 1994 and
providing existing fixed installations and portable extinguishers remain serviceable and fit to purposes, they
may remain in place (ref. mgn80 (AUGUST 1998))

What type of detector should be fitted in conjunction with an infra red type fire detector?
It should be used in conjunction with a smoke detector to give an early warning of fire

What are ‘water hammer’ and its danger?

When steam lines are shut down it is possible from various causes for them to fill with water. If steam is
allowed to enter a line with water, the steam starts to move the water down the line. The steam in contact
 24

with the water eventually condenses and a vacuum is formed causing the water to be pulled back to the
valve which has just been opened and striking it with a heavy blow, often fracturing the valve. If the valve
with a heavy blow often fracturing the valve. If the valve fractures it may end disastrously with risk of loss
of life

Is the code of safe working practices law?

Yes it is law

What percentage halon is required to extinguish a fire in a compartment?

5%

What is the purpose of the 2 sets of relief valves on a bulk carbon dioxide system?
the purpose of the 2 sets of relief valves on a bulk carbon dioxide system is that one set being a low
pressure set being set at 24.5 bars and designed to relieve excess pressure to atmosphere in the event of
over pressure. The high pressure set is at 27 bars and is required to discharge into the compartment this
causes a rapid rise in pressure and in theory carbon dioxide will discharge into the compartment
extinguishing the fire

What survival equipment would you expect to find in a life boat?

Oars, a boat hook, a compass, distress rockets, first aid equipments, rations and fresh water

What does SOLAS stand for?

Safety of Life At Sea

Sketch & describe the battery CO2 system?

The above system shows a battery CO 2 system for a machinery space. On opening the release cabinet, this
will sound the alarm in the engine room, warning personnel that release is imminent and that they should
vacate the engine room. Opening of the cabinet will also stop ventilation. Before release of CO 2 a head
count must be done to see all personnel are accounted for and the machinery space must be sealed
When the operating handle is pulled this opens a set of CO 2 starting bottles which in turn supply CO2 to
operation piston via a safety valve. The piston in turn allows the battery of CO 2 bottles to be released to the
engine room. This is known as a ‘ONE SHOT’ method

What are the requirements of a fixed CO2 fire fighting installation?

The system must give 40% saturation of the compartment to be filled.
85% of the co2 charge must be discharged into the compartment within the first 2 minutes

Once a fire detector has detected or sensed a fire what happened?

Associated with fire detectors is a circuit connected to an alarm panel, which is usually situated on the
bridge, where the alarm is accepted usually there is repeater panel in the ECR. The panel giving an
indication on which deck and zone the detector was activated. Someone will then be sent to investigate and
verify if it is a fire or a false alarm

How much foam is produced from a 9L foam extinguisher?

72L of foam

What are the advantages of CO2 systems compared to halon system?

CO2 is more environmentally friendly also halon system are being phased out

What is the bilge injection valve?

The bilge injection is a valve that enables the engine room bilges to be pumped out directly over board in
the event of an emergency such a flooding. The valve is normally fitted to the end of a branch connection
with the main sea water suction line. This enables large main sea water cooling pumps to be used as a bilge
pump in an emergency

Describe and sketch a soda acid extinguisher

 25

The container of the extinguisher holds a sodium bicarbonate solution. The screw on cap contains a plunger
mechanism covered by a safety guard. Below the plunger is a glass phial containing sulphuric acid. When
the plunger is struck, the glass phial is broken and the acid and sodium bicarbonate mix. The resulting
chemical reaction produces CO2 gas, which pressurizes the space above the liquid, forcing it out through
the internal pipe to the muzzle

What does AFFF stand for and where would you use the type of extinguisher?
AFFF stands for: Aqueous Film Forming Foam.
This would be used on class B fires, fires burning liquids such as L.O. and fuels

What can you tell me about halon system, with regards to new installations and existing ones?
SOLAS prohibits the installation of new or portable system in all ships from 1 st October 1994 and provides
existing fixed installations and portable extinguishers remain serviceable and fit for purposes, they may
remain in place (ref: MGN 80 (august 1998)

What type of fire detection equipment did you have on board ship?
Flame detector, smoke detector and heat detector

Why are CO2 extinguishers not permitted in the accommodation?

Because if used in a confined space, it could be lethal

What action would you take in the event of fire breaking out in the machinery space?
If a fire breaks out, the alarm should be raised and the bridge informed immediately. If the ship in port, the
local fire authority should be called. If possible an attempt should be made to extinguish or limit the fire by
any means of possible (a fire in its first few minutes can usually be readily extinguished)
Ventilation fans should be stopped (should stop automatically on activation of fire alarm). Openings to the
space should be sealed to reduce the supply of air to the fire and to prevent it spreading. Any fuel lines
feeding the fire or threatened by it should be isolated. If practicable, combustible materials adjacent to the
fire should be removed
After the fire as been extinguished precautions should be taken against spontaneous reignition
Personnel unless wearing SCBA should not reenter a space in which a fire has occurred before it has been
fully ventilated

What are the 4 principle types of portable fire extinguishers found on board ships?
Water? Soda acid type extinguishers
Foam extinguishers
Dry powder
CO2

What advantage do inert gas producing units used for fire fighting installations have over CO 2 and halon
system
Inert gas producing units have the advantage of being able to continuously produce inert gas. A bottle
storage system such as CO2 or halon flooding is a ‘one shot’ fire extinguisher which leaves a ship
unprotected until further gas supplies can be found

What are the various cutouts and alarms in a funnel inert gas system high O2 level (above 5%)
Loss of S.W. pressure /flow
Fan/blower failure
High gas temp alarm

What are the dangers of excessive lubrication in start air compressors?

There is a danger that excessive cylinder lubrication in start air compressors could lead to explosions in air
start lines/manifolds. Excessive lubrication can lead to carry over with compressed air, being deposited in
the receiver then transferred to the air start manifold, where a leaking air start valve may allow hot gases
from combustion into the air start manifold, ignite the oil vapour, causing explosion
 26

What is fitted in a foam or water type fire extinguishers that ensures liquid, not gases comes out on
discharge
A dip lobe or internal pipe is fitted in the fire extinguisher which is connected to the extinguisher hose and
travels to the bottom of the extinguisher

How is a life raft launched?

A life raft simply launched by releasing it from its lashings a painter is secured to the ship and the life raft
container is thrown over the side. Inflation takes place automatically, the container bursting open ant the
life raft floats clear. A pressurized cylinder of CO2 is used to inflate the raft; life rafts must normally be
boarded from water level dry if possible

How does a foam nozzle work?

A foam nozzle works on the venturi principle where air is drawn into the nozzle aerating the foam solution
for good quality fire fighting foam

What type of fire for CO2 EXTINGUISHER?

Class B&C and electrical

What is the duration of a 9l foam fire extinguisher?

Approximately 50 seconds

Explain how the emergency generator starts up in the event of total power failure
The start up of the emergency generator is initiated by an electrical relay which monitors the normal mains
power supply. Falling mains frequency or voltage causes the ‘start up’ relay to operate the generator
starting equipment. The prime mover may be electrically cranked for its own 24 v battery and starter motor
or air started from its own air reservoir fitted local to the generator engine. A manual start up may also be
initiate by push buttons in the main control room and in the emergency generator room. Also when power
loss occurs, the breaker feeding the emergency switch board from the main switch board opens. This
breaker is interlocked with the emergency generator breaker which is normally open under normal
circumstances but in the event of total power failure this breaker will close when the breaker feeding the
emergency generator will feed the emergency switch board

Name the trips found on a generator circuit breaker

Over current, under voltage, reverse power

When working on batteries, what precautions should be taken?

Ensure the space is well ventilated, do not smoke or use naked lights and also wear protection clothing such
as apron, gloves and face shield

What is meant by the term type Ex’p?’

ex’p’ – pressurization
This is where equipment is pressurized to prevent any gases entering equipment

Would you enter an enclosed space if the O2 levels were recorded as 19% or below?
No

What is the purpose of the over current protection trip

The purpose of the over current protection trip is to trip the generator in over load situations. The trip is
usually set at 150% operating capacity and has a time delay of usually 20 sec. this allows for short periods
of overload currents. If also protects against a short circuit in the generator

Electrical
 27

What is done to ensure emergency generator is always available and will start
The system should be checked regularly and operated weekly to ensure its availability if required. Fuel
tanks should be kept full, ample cooling water in radiator cooling system and starting equipment should be
functional i.e, batteries should be charged fully or air receiver full

Describe how a self excited a.c.generator would work

The self excited a.c.generator basically consists of a synchronis motor where 3 phase supply is generated an
a.c. exciter and a rotary rectifier and a static excitation device. The rotating diodes change a.c. into D.C. for
the d.c.excitation current, which is supplied through bushes. The exciter in conjunction with the AVR is
used to monitor the correct voltage under load changes

How do you ensure that batteries are always in good working order?
Where lead acid batteries are used they require a constant trickle charge, but for both types of batteries a
regular charge of up is necessary
Check state of battery reaching a hydrometer; lead acid – specific gravity 1270. Alkaline is 1190 but SB for
alkaline batteries does not change much during charge or discharge
Ensure cells are covered with electrolyte if not top up with distilled water. Keep batteries dry and clean
Terminals should be smeared with petroleum jelly

How would you know about earth fault in the system?

Finding an earth fault would be by the process of elimination i.e., circuit breakers would be opened and
closed until earth fault disappeared, taking care which breaker were being opened and closed as they may
be supply essential at the time. It would be good practice to start with places such as the galley and laundry
where fault are common

What conditions are necessary to parallel two generators?

The speed of both machines must be same i.e., the frequency and the voltages must be same in phase

What are the causes of single phasing?

Single phasing can be caused when one of the three back up fuses blows or if one of the conductor
conducts is in open circuit

What are the advantage and disadvantages of alkaline batteries?

The advantages of alkaline batteries are that they retain charge on open circuit and even if discharged, it can
be left for long periods without adverse effects
The disadvantages are that they require a greater number of cells to produce a particular voltage
They are also more expensive than lead acid batteries

What is sequential starting?

Sequential starting is the automatic starting of essential equipment when power is returned after a power
failure, i.e. equipment such a steering gear

Describe how synchronizing lamps are sued to parallel a generator

This is normally used as a back up alternative way to the synchroscope; the lamps are connected between
the incoming generator and the bus bars
The sequence method is the most preferred one as it displays a rotation of lamp brightness, which indicates
whether the incoming machine is running fast (clockwise) or slow (anticlockwise). As with the
synchroscope the lamp sequence must appear to rotate slowly clockwise. Correct synchrosnisation occurs
when the top or keys lamp is dark and the two bottom lamps are equally bright

What gas is given off by batteries while charging

Hydrogen

Draw a star 3 phase connection

 28

What are the two main types of batteries commonly used on board ships
Lead acid and alkaline

What is meant by preference tripping

Preference tripping is the tripping of non essential load when an overload condition occurs on a generator.
If a generator overload develops the preference trip relay operates an alarm and acts to trip selected non
essential loads. These load may trip at set intervals depending on how essential the .load first trip 5 sec,
second trip 10 sec

What arte the essentials supplied by the emergency switch board

Essentials are emergency lighting, alarm, communication, water tight doors and other services necessary to
maintain safety and to permit safe evacuation of the ship by life boats. Also you will find a steering gear
motor, emergency air start compressor, and emergency fire pump motor are supplied from the emergency
switch board

Describe how an ac motor works

Most ac motors on ships and the induction or squirrel cage motor types, the principle of operation for which
is as follows. The starter is made up of 3 separately phased windings, to which a 3 phase supply is
connected. The rotor has a series of copper conductors along its axis, which are joined by rings at the ends
to form a cage. When the motor is started, the rotating magnetic field induces an EMF in the cage and thus
a current flow. The current carrying conductor in a magnetic field produces the motor effect, which turns
the rotor. The motor speed builds up to a value just less than the speed of rotation of the magnetic field. The
motor speed depends upon the EMF induced in the rotor and this depends upon the difference in speed
between the conductors and the magnetic field
The number of different fixed speeds is possible by changing the number of poles (conductors)

What would you do if you found an engineer in electric shock?

First raise alarm then isolate or switch off the current. If this is not possible, pull or push the victim away
from the source, taking care not to make electrical contact with the victim or the electrical source, i.e., use
something non conductive
Once the victim has been removed from the electrical source if the breathing is feasible or ceased artificial
respiration should be started at once. Delay on starting artificial respiration can prove fatal
Note: if artificial respiration is started once 70% of the victims recover. If there is 3 minutes delay only
20% of the victims recover

What is the AVR?

The function of the AVR is to regulate the exciter fields current automatically, comparing the generator
terminal voltage with the standard set voltage and thus maintaining the generator terminal voltage to a
constant value regardless of load changes

What loads are considered as non essentials?

Loads considered as non essentials are air conditioning and ventilation, laundry, galley, refrigeration and
deck equipment

What is single phasing of motor?

Single phasing is where are the 3 phases supplying the motor becomes disconnected. The motor will
continue to run it this happens and can result in motor burnout. The effect of single phasing is to increase
the current in the two remaining lines and cause the motor to become very noisy due to uneven torque
produced

Name the trips found in a generator circuit breaker

Over current
Under voltage
Reverse power
 29

Explain regulation regarding power supply for steering gear

The electrical supply must b e from two widely separated supplies i.e., one from the main switch board and
the other from emergency board
Electrical leafs and fuses are allow 100% over load, giving only short circuit protection
If failure does occur on one system, the standby system will cut in within 45 sec
The steering motor will have sequential starting

What would you consider a minimum insulation reading resistance?

Insulation resistance must be kept above at least 1 MW, the higher the insulation resistance the better,
companies have their own regulation but most companies only allow reading above 5 M ohms

What is meant by the term type Ex’e?’

Ex’e’ - increased safety equipment
Increased safety equipment is based primarily on the elimination of ‘open sparking’ i.e., equipment does
not have contacts

What is the purpose of the over current protection trip

It is to trip the generator in overload situations. The trip ix usually set at 150% operating capacity and has a
time delay of usually 20 sec. this allows for short periods of overload currents. It also protects against a
short circuit in the generator

What is minimum current can be regarded as fatal;

A shock current as low as 15 mA ac or dc can be fatal

How can you reverse the direction of motor?

By swapping any two supply line connections over

Draw and explain how earth lamps works

A direct earth on one pole coil short circuit its lamp causing the other two to shine brightly

What is load sharing?

It is equal balance of loads between generators irrespective of load changes

When working on batteries what precautions should be taken?

Ensure the space is well ventilated, do not smoke or use naked lights and also wear protective clothing such
as apron, gloves and face shields

What is the normal reading on and insulati0n test meter?

Infinity is normal reading, but reading should be kept above 5 ohms

What is meant by protection discrimination?

This is the ability of a protection system to disconnect only faulty circuits and to maintain the electrical
supplies to healthy one
Discrimination is advised by coordinating the current ratings and the time settings of the fuses and over
current relays used between the generator and the load
The devices nearest the load having the lowest current rating and shortest operating time; these nearest the
generator having the highest current rating and the longest operating time i.e., a motor fault on a centrifugal
pump would not cause the generator breaker to trip

What is the term Ex’I?’

Ex’I’ – intrinsically safe
Equipment with circuits that do not generate enough heat to ignite a gas. This generally means limiting
circuits to less than 30v. 50mA

Draw a delta 3 phase connection

 30

Why do you require earth lamps on 220v distribution board when you have them on the main switch board?
You require earth lamps on the 220v distribution board as well the main switch board, due to the air gap in
step down transformer i.e., 440v earth lamps cannot detect earth on 220v systems due to the gap

When would a star/delta starter used on a motor

Where slow moving high criteria load obis involves the starting time must be considered because of the
heating effect of the starting current and in this case a star/delta starter would be used
The star/delta starter first connects the starter windings in star and when running charges over to delta. The
star connection results in about 58% line voltage being applied to each phase with therefore a reduction in
starting current. The starting torque reduced to about 1/3 of its direct on line value

What sort of starting current do you get with a direct on line starter?
6 – 8 times full load current
What is meant by the terms type Ex’p’
ex’p’; - pressurization
This is where equipment is pressurized to prevent any gases entering equipment

What is meant by the term Ex’d’

Ex’d’ – flame proof enclosure
this is an enclosure that will withstand an internal explosion of flammable gas within itself and dissipate
heat from that explosion before reaching outside atmosphere, which could ignite the gas in surrounding
atmosphere i.e., a ship’s battery locker should be classed as Ex’d’

What is reverse power protection for?

Generators intended to operate in parallel must have a reverse power protection trip. A reverse power relay
monitors the direction of power flowing between the generator and the switch board
If a prime mover failure occurred the generator would act as a motor. The reverse power relay detects the
fault and acts to trip the generator circuit breaker

What is the purpose of under voltage trip?

It is fitted to all generator breakers. Its main function is to trip the breaker when severe voltage dip (around
50%0. the under voltage trip on a generator circuit breaker also prevents it trip on a generator circuit
breaker also prevents it being closed when the generator voltage is very low or absent

What is the function of fuse?

The function of the fuse is to give short circuit protection and also over load protection and operates in
milliseconds

Explain what would happen if you were to lose a generator

First the standby generator set would start up and automatically put itself on the board. If this did not
happen, the ship would ‘black out’ and after a time delay usually 30 seconds the eme

What is the function of a circuit breaker?

The circuit breaker is an isolating switch that also acts as a fuse. It has two designed ratings: one normal
safe working current and the other against overload, which may also have a time delay

What is battery used for an board ships

they are used for supplying essential power to radio equipment, telephone exchange, fire detection, general
alarm circuit etc. these system are after supplied from two sets of batteries worked on a regular
charge/discharge cycle
they are also used as emergency supplies i.e., emergency generator startup and emergency lighting being
used in this case in a ‘stand by’ role to give power when main supplies fail

Where on the ship is the emergency generator located

The emergency generator is located remotely from the engine room, usually on the accommodation in deck
or at weather deck level or above
 31

What are disadvantages and advantages of a lead acid battery?

The advantages of a lead acid battery are they require fewer cells to achieve particular voltage an d are
reasonably priced
The disadvantages are they require regular attention to keep fully charged, always require a trickle charge
and they discharge on open circuit

3xplain how the emergency generator starts up in the event of total power failure
The start up of the emergency generator is initiated by an electrical relay, which monitors the normal mains
power supply. Failing mains frequency or voltage causes the ‘start up’ relay to operate the generator
starting equipment. The prime movers may be electrically cranked from its own 24v battery and starter
motor or air started from its own air reservoir filled local to the generator engine. A manual start up may
also be initiated by push buttons in the main control room and in the emergency generator room
Also when power loss occurs, the breaker feeding the emergency switch board from the main switch board
opens. This breaker is interlocked with the emergency generator breaker, which is normally open under
normal circumstances, but in the event of total power failure, this breaker will close when the breaker
feeding the emergency board from the main board opens. Thus the emergency generator will feed the
emergency switch board.