Q6 (16 Marks) Engine Construction & Components
MEP • Written Exam

Describe the action you would take and outline possible reasons for failure in both the following cases:

(a) The engine fails to turn on starting air.

(b) The engine turns on starting air but fails to fire.

Appeared In: Apr 2018

✓ Verified Model Answer (Text Solution)

Structured for DG Shipping MEO Class II examination scoring criteria.

Exam Ready
(a) When the Engine Fails to Turn on Starting Air, Actions to Take:
  • Ensure the air bottle pressure is sufficient. If it's low, start the air compressor to fill the air bottles.
  • Check control air pressure. If it's too low, check for leaks in the control air line and rectify any issues.
  • Ensure all valves in the starting airline are open and set correctly to supply air to the engine.
  • Inspect the auto start valve for malfunctions. If faulty, troubleshoot or replace the valve.
  • Confirm that the turning gear is disengaged. If the interlock is activated or the limit switch malfunctions, rectify the fault.
  • If the start air distributor is wrongly adjusted, make the necessary adjustments as per the manufacturer's manual.
  • If the Pneumatic control valve malfunctions, overhaul or replace it as needed.
  • Investigate any safety interlocks (e.g., low lube oil pressure) that might be preventing the engine from turning. Rectify any faults found.
  • Check the Engine control switch and set it if incorrect.
  • If the auxiliary blower isn't running or is in manual mode, switch it to auto mode.
  • If the engine hasn’t reversed correctly, inspect and rectify the reversing mechanism.
Possible Reasons for Failure:
  • Low air bottle pressure
  • Insufficient control of air pressure
  • Incorrect air supply setup
  • Malfunctioning auto start valve
  • Activated turning gear interlock
  • Misadjusted start air distributor
  • Sticking the piston in the air distributor
  • Faulty control valve
  • Activated safety interlock
  • Incorrect engine control switch setting
  • Inactive auxiliary blower
  • Faulty reversing process

(b) When the Engine Turns on Starting Air but Fails to Fire, Actions to Take:
  • Inspect the puncture valve to ensure it is properly vented. Identify and rectify any issues.
  • Check the manoeuvring gear for correct adjustment. Adjust as necessary.
  • Inspect the governor for any faults. Troubleshoot and rectify according to the manual.
  • Ensure the fuel lever on the local manoeuvring stand is correctly adjusted. Make adjustments if needed.
  • Check the fuel filter for blockages. Clean or replace the filter if necessary.
  • Verify that fuel oil pressure is adequate and that the fuel line inlet valve is open. Troubleshoot the fuel pump if pressure is low.
  • Ensure the control air signal to the governor is not restricted and that it's set at the correct level. Rectify any issues.
  • Inspect the fuel pump and injectors for any faults. Overhaul and rectify as necessary.
  • Ensure the correct grade of fuel is being used at the proper temperature. Check the fuel purification system for water contamination.
  • Check for jamming or sticking in the fuel linkage. Lubricate and ease up as needed.
Possible Reasons for Failure:
  • Improperly vented puncture valve
  • Faulty adjustment of manoeuvring gear
  • Governor malfunction
  • Incorrect fuel lever adjustment
  • Blocked fuel filter
  • Low fuel oil pressure or no fuel supply
  • Restricted control air signal to the governor
  • Faulty fuel injection system
  • Incorrect fuel grade, low temperature, or water contamination
  • Jammed or stuck fuel linkage

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