DieselShip's Online Content Library

Q1. Write a report to the engineering superintendent regarding the failure at sea of a crosshead main engine bottom end bearing. The report must explain how the defect was detected, the immediate action taken to prevent further engine damage, the subsequent action taken to ensure that the vessel was able to continue on passage to the next port, probable cause of the bearing failure and other checks made on the engine. (16)

Q2. a) Explain why methanol can be used as a fuel for marine diesel engines, indicating the properties of methanol which make it useful as a fuel. (2)

b) Explain why methanol must be treated with caution when used on board a ship. (4)

c) Describe how methanol may be used in a marine fuel in four-stroke diesel engines. (10)

Q3. a) State, with reasons, the properties required of a lubricating oil for a trunk piston type, medium speed engine, indicating why some properties differ from those required of a lubricating oil used in the crankcase of a crosshead diesel engine. (6)

b) Describe, with the aid of a sketch, the lubrication system of a trunk piston medium speed engine, explaining how lubrication effectiveness is assured. (10)

Q4. With reference to turbocharger systems:

a) Describe how performance of the system is monitored and how the information gathered is used to assess performance. (8)

b) Describe the arrangements for maintaining the systems in good condition. (8)

Q5. (a) Describe, with the aid of a sketch, a diesel engine air start system and the devices which are fitted to prevent or limit damage in the event of an explosion. (8)

(b) Explain how an explosion in a diesel engine air start system might occur. (4)

(c) As Chief Engineer Officer, outline the actions that should be taken to ensure that an explosion from the causes explained in part (b) may be avoided. (4)

Q6. With reference to cylinder liner scuffing:

(a) Explain how it is caused, stating the method of detection. (6)

(b) Explain the effects of cylinder liner scuffing. (4)

(c) Explain how minor scuffing may be treated in order to avoid the need for liner replacement. (6)

Q7. (a) Sketch a main engine electronically controlled fuel injection system (6)

(b) Explain how fuel injector quantity and timing is changed in the fuel injection system sketched in part (a) (6)

(c) State why it may be necessary to change engine fuel timing (4)

Q8. With reference to the local control of a main engine following failure of the automatic control system, explain how the engine can be monitored and controlled. (16)

Q9. (a) Describe, with the aid of a sketch, a waste heat recovery system for electrical generation using main engine exhaust gas in combined gas/steam turbine systems. (8)

(b) Describe the operation of the waste heat recovery system described in part (a) whilst the associated main engine is running. (8)