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Fuel Optimization Techniques

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10 views16 pages

Fuel Optimization Techniques

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kumbhar1238
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© © All Rights Reserved
We take content rights seriously. If you suspect this is your content, claim it here.
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FUEL OPTIMIZATION TECHNIQUES:- Fuel optimization in shipping is a critical focus area for

reducing operational costs, minimizing environmental impact, and meeting regulatory requirements.

Here are some proven and emerging techniques for improving fuel efficiency in shipping:

 Azipod propellers are podded, electrically driven propulsion systems that offer enhanced
maneuverability and reduce hydrodynamic drag. Their efficient design can lower fuel consumption by
up to 20% compared to conventional systems.
 Hull Form Optimization: Designing or retrofitting hulls to minimize water resistance (e.g., bulbous
bows, optimized stern shapes).
 Air Lubrication Systems: Creating a layer of air bubbles beneath the hull to reduce friction.
 Waste Heat Recovery Systems: Capturing and reusing heat from engine exhausts to power auxiliary
systems or provide propulsion assistance.
 Wind-Assisted Propulsion: Utilizing sails, kites, or rotor sails to harness wind energy and reduce
engine power demand.
 Cold ironing (or shore power) involves supplying a docked ship with electricity from the shore,
allowing its engines to be turned off. This reduces fuel consumption and emissions during port stays,
improving environmental performance.
 Route Optimization: Leveraging advanced navigation systems and weather routing tools to find the
most fuel-efficient paths.

AZIPOD PROPULSION:- It is an advanced system where the propeller is mounted on a pod that can
rotate 360 degrees. It is powered by an electric motor inside the pod, eliminating the need for a traditional
rudder and shaft.

Advantages:-

 Better Maneuverability: The rotating pod allows ships to turn easily, especially in tight spaces.
 Fuel Efficiency: Azipods reduce fuel consumption by up to 20% compared to traditional propulsion
systems.
 Lower Emissions: Improved efficiency means less pollution.
 Reduced Noise and Vibrations: Makes the system ideal for passenger ships.
 Flexibility: Suitable for various types of vessels, including cruise ships and icebreakers.
ALCAP PURIFIER:- is a high-efficiency centrifugal separator developed by Alfa Laval, primarily
used in marine and industrial settings for fuel and lube oil purification. It stands out because it eliminates the
need for a traditional gravity disc, allowing it to automatically adjust to different fuel densities. This makes
it particularly useful for handling heavy fuels with high densities or variable fuel types without manual
adjustments.

Here’s how it works:

 Automatic Adjustment: ALCAP uses sensors (transducers) to monitor the oil and water interface.
When water levels increase, the control system either triggers a water drain or initiates desludging to
maintain purity.
 Centrifugal Separation: Impurities and water are removed by centrifugal force, with clean oil
discharged for use while water and sludge are separated for disposal.
 Efficiency and Maintenance: The system is automated and requires less manual intervention compared
to traditional separators, improving uptime and reducing operational costs

ALCAP systems are widely used on ships for engine protection by ensuring the fuel and lubrication oils are
free of contaminants, which is critical for efficient and reliable engine operation.

REASON FOR PURIFIER VIBRATIONS:- In shipboard purifiers vibrations can be caused by


several mechanical or operational issues, which can lead to reduced performance and damage if not
addressed.

Here are the common reasons:

 Unbalanced Bowl Assembly


 Damaged or Worn Bearings
 Misalignment of Drive Components
 Improper Cleaning or Assembly
 Overloading
 Foreign Objects
 Faulty Drive Mechanism
 Bowl Speed
 Inadequate Mounting or Foundation
DIFFERENCE BETWEEN PURIFIER AND CLARIFIER

Feature Purifier Clarifier


Separation
Water + Solids Solids only
Type
Disc Type Gravity disc Clarifier disc
Water Removal Yes (separate outlet for water) No
Fuel oil (water and solids Lubricating oil (minimal
Oil Type
present) water)
Applications Fuel cleaning Lubricating oil cleaning

UNLOADER VALVE:- in an air compressor is crucial for ensuring efficient operation, particularly during
startup and idle periods. Here’s its purpose:

 Pressure Relief During Startup:


The unloader valve releases the pressure trapped in the compressor’s discharge line and cylinder head
when the compressor stops. This prevents the motor from struggling against high backpressure during
the next startup, reducing the risk of motor overload or failure.
 Enabling Idle Operation:
In compressors with load/unload cycles, the valve helps switch the compressor to an idle state by
venting excess pressure. This conserves energy and reduces wear on the compressor components when
full-pressure operation isn’t needed.
 Protecting the System:
By relieving pressure during non-operational phases, the unloader valve protects the compressor system
from potential damage caused by overpressurization.
 Maintaining Efficiency:
It ensures smoother and faster restarts, enhancing the compressor’s overall efficiency and extending its
service life.

OWS:- An Oil Water Separator is a critical piece of equipment on ships designed to remove oil from bilge
water before discharging it overboard, ensuring compliance with marine pollution regulations like
MARPOL Annex I. Its purpose is to prevent environmental pollution caused by oily wastewater from engine
rooms and other ship operations.

Key Components and Working Principle

 Collection of Bilge Water:- Bilge water, which contains a mixture of water, oil, and other contaminants,
is collected from the ship's engine room and bilge spaces.
 Separation Process:- The OWS uses physical and mechanical methods (gravity separation and
coalescence) to separate oil from water. Oil, being less dense than water, rises to the top, while water
settles at the bottom.
 Three Stages of an OWS:

1. Primary Separation: Removes large oil droplets and solid impurities.


2. Secondary Treatment: Uses filters or coalescers to remove finer oil particles and emulsified oil.
3. Tertiary Treatment: Often includes an oil content monitor (OCM) to ensure discharged water has an
oil content below the regulatory limit (usually 15 ppm).

 Oil Discharge and Monitoring:- The separated oil is stored in a dedicated sludge tank for proper
disposal. The treated water is monitored by the OCM before being discharged overboard.
ELECTRICAL DECK CRANE CONTROL PANEL:- It is the central system that manages the
operations of deck cranes on ships. It facilitates the crane's movements—lifting, lowering, slewing, and
trolley operations—via user inputs, and ensures safe and efficient handling of cargo.

Here's are some safety features of it:-

 Overload Protection:
 Limit Switches:
 Emergency Stop Buttons:
 Overcurrent and Overheating Protection:
 Anti-Collision System:
 Brake Systems:
 Slewing and Luffing Lock:
 Deadman Control:
 Proximity Sensors:
 Alarm and Warning Systems:

INTERLOCKS FOR THE HYDRAULIC PUMP IN A CRANE ON SHIPS:- are crucial


safety and operational features designed to ensure the system operates within safe and predefined parameters.
They prevent equipment damage and accidents caused by improper use or system failures.

Here are the typical interlocks for a hydraulic pump used in a shipboard crane:

 Low Oil Level Interlock


 High Oil Temperature Interlock
 Overpressure Interlock
 Emergency Stop Interlock
 Load Monitoring Interlock
 Oil Filter Clogging Interlock
 Slewing, Hoisting, and Luffing Interlocks
 Motor Overload or Fault Interlock
 Start-Up Sequence Interlock
 Crane Parking/Locking Interlock

DECK CRANE:- It is a type of lifting equipment installed on ships to handle cargo, containers, or other
heavy loads. These cranes are vital for ships that lack access to port facilities with shore-based cranes or for
handling cargo in remote locations. Deck cranes are designed to operate in marine environments and are
built to withstand harsh weather conditions and dynamic loads caused by vessel movements.

Types of Deck Crane Operations

 Lifting (Hoisting and Lowering)


 Slewing
 Luffing
 Trolleying
 Grabbing
 Tandem or Dual-Lift Operations
 Maintenance/Support Operations
DECK CRANE INTERLOCKS FOR STARTING MOTORS ARE:-

 Power Supply Interlock


 Hydraulic Oil Level Interlock
 Oil Temperature Interlock
 Emergency Stop Interlock
 Overpressure Interlock
 System Reset Interlock
 Load Safety Interlock
 Wind Speed Interlock
 Parking Brake Interlock
 Control System Interlock
 Cooling System Interlock
 Slewing Lock Interlock

# As an ETO (Electro-Technical Officer), when lifting a main engine piston and a power failure occurs.
The outcome and my actions depend largely on the electromagnetic brake system installed in the crane.

What Happens to the Piston?

 Electromagnetic Brake Activation (fail-safe brakes):- Electromagnetic brakes are spring-applied and
electrically released. In the event of a power failure: The loss of electrical power automatically activates
the spring mechanism, engaging the brake and holding the load (piston) in place. This ensures the
piston does not drop and remains safely suspended at its current position.
 No Movement of the Crane:- Both the hoist and trolley movements will stop because the motors
driving these systems also lose power. The load (piston) will remain stationary unless there is a failure
in the braking system.

What Can You Do?

 Secure the Area


 Assess the Power Failure
 Switch to Emergency Power (if available)
 Use Manual Brake Release (if necessary)
 Inform the Chief Engineer
 Restore Power

Once power is restored, confirm the crane is fully operational before resuming work.

# COMPRESSOR MOTOR RUNNING IN REVERSE DIRECTION could occur due to several reasons,
which can lead to serious operational issues if not identified and rectified quickly. Below are the common
causes for a compressor motor running in reverse:

 Incorrect Motor Wiring:- Cause: If the electrical connections to the motor are reversed (incorrect
phase wiring), the motor will run in the opposite direction.

 Effect: The compressor will fail to perform its intended function as it may not generate the necessary
pressure or suction.
 Solution: Check the wiring connections and ensure the motor’s phase sequence is correct. This can
be rectified by reversing two of the three phase wires if using a three-phase motor.

 Motor Protection Circuit Malfunction


 Incorrect Installation or Maintenance
 Motor Control Fault (Reversed Contactors or Switches), etc.
# CENTRIFUGAL CLUTCH:- is a clutch mechanism that utilises centrifugal force to link the engine's
drive shaft to the transmission shaft, typically positioned between the engine's flywheel and the
transmission system. Its primary purpose is to establish a connection between the engine and transmission
shafts, and it operates with greater efficiency at higher speeds.

Its operation relies entirely on the centrifugal


force generated by the driving member, such as
an engine or motor. This centrifugal force is
harnessed to engage the clutch with the driven
shaft. When the engine initiates rotation, it
generates a centrifugal force that causes the
sliding shoes to move outward. This, in turn,
connects the friction lining of the shoes to the
inner surface of the drum, initiating its motion.
As the drum is linked to the driven
shaft, power is consequently transmitted from
the engine shaft to the transmission shaft,
ultimately driving the load. When the engine is
in motion, the internal components of the centrifugal clutch begin to undergo rotational motion while the
drum remains stationary, resulting in no power transmission. At lower speeds, the generated centrifugal
force isn't sufficient to overcome the opposing spring force, keeping the clutch disengaged. However, as the
speed increases, the centrifugal force surpasses the spring force. This enables the sliding shoes to move
outward, engaging with the inner surface of the drum. Consequently, the drum commences rotation,
facilitating the transfer of rotational power from the engine to the transmission's driven shaft. When the
engine encounters an increased load, its speed decreases, causing the clutch to disengage.

# THREE-ELEMENT BOILER DRUM LEVEL CONTROL SYSTEM:- is a sophisticated mechanism


designed to maintain a stable water level within a boiler's drum, despite fluctuations in steam demand and
feedwater supply.

It achieves this by considering three key variables:

 Drum Level: This is the primary variable, directly indicating the water level in the drum.
 Steam Flow: This secondary variable reflects the rate at which steam is being withdrawn from the
boiler.
 Feedwater Flow: This third variable represents the rate at which water is being fed into the boiler.

The system utilizes a control algorithm that analyzes these three variables to adjust the position of the
feedwater control valve. This valve regulates the flow of feedwater into the drum.

 Direct Action: When the drum level drops,


the controller increases the feedwater flow to
replenish the water.
 Indirect Action: Conversely, when the drum
level rises, the controller decreases the
feedwater flow to prevent overflow.
BOILER:- It is a closed vessel used to generate steam by heating water or other fluids. The steam
produced is then used for various purposes such as propulsion, heating, or powering machinery. Boilers are
critical in marine engines, industrial settings, and power generation.

PURGING:- It is the process of clearing out flammable gases or unburned fuel from the furnace before
ignition. It prevents the risk of an explosion when the fuel is introduced for combustion. Purging is typically
done by forcing air through the furnace to displace any accumulated gases.

 Pre-Purge: Performed before the start of the boiler to ensure that no unburned gases are present.
 Post-Purge: Performed after the combustion process to clear any remaining gases.

BOILER MOUNTINGS:- are essential safety and operational components attached to a boiler to
regulate its operation and ensure safety. They are typically installed on the body of the boiler. The key
mountings include:

 Safety Valve: Prevents excessive pressure buildup by releasing steam if the pressure exceeds a safe
level.
 Pressure Gauge: Measures the internal pressure of the boiler.
 Water Level Indicator: Shows the water level inside the boiler, which is crucial for safe operation.
 Steam Stop Valve: Controls the flow of steam from the boiler.
 Blow-off Valve: Used to remove impurities and sediment from the bottom of the boiler.
 Feed Check Valve: Regulates the flow of feedwater into the boiler.
 Try Cock: Used to test the water level in the boiler.

FIRING SEQUENCE:- It refers to the order in which fuel is introduced into the furnace and
combustion process is initiated. In marine boilers and industrial boilers, a correct firing sequence is crucial
for optimal combustion and efficiency.

It typically includes:

 Pre-purging the furnace to clear any residual gases.


 Ignition: The burner is lit after the air supply is established.
 Main Firing: Fuel is fed into the furnace at a controlled rate for full combustion.
 Continuous Monitoring: Combustion is monitored for air-to-fuel ratio, pressure, and temperature.

BACKFIRE:- in a boiler occurs when the flame ignites in the wrong direction, often caused by a sudden
failure in the fuel-air mixture or the ignition system. It can result in a reverse flame, where the combustion
process occurs outside of the intended burner, potentially causing damage or a safety hazard.

Causes of Backfire:

 Incorrect fuel-air ratio.


 Poor burner maintenance.
 Faulty ignition system or delayed ignition.

Consequences: Backfire can cause damage to the burner, boiler tubes, and potentially lead to a fire hazard.
It can also cause overheating and malfunctioning of the boiler components.

BOILER SAFETIES:- Safety Valve, Pressure Gauge, Water Level Indicator, Low Water Level Alarm,
Low Water Level Trip, Flame Failure Detection, Low Fuel Oil Pressure Safety, High Steam Temperature
Alarm, High Pressure Trip, Overheating Protection, Burner and Combustion Safeties, Blow-off Valve, Vent
Valve, etc.
BOILER FEED WATER SYSTEM DIAGRAM:-
OIL MIST DETECTOR:- It is a critical safety device used on ships and in industrial settings to
monitor and detect oil mist in the crankcase of large engines. The presence of oil mist indicates the
possibility of overheating or abnormal conditions that could lead to crankcase explosions, a serious hazard in
marine and industrial engines.

Purpose of Oil Mist Detector:

 Prevent Crankcase Explosions:- Oil mist is created when lubricating oil comes into contact with hot
surfaces due to overheating, friction, or component failure. A high concentration of oil mist can become
explosive if exposed to an ignition source.
 Early Warning:- The OMD provides early detection of abnormal conditions, allowing the crew to take
corrective actions before a catastrophic failure occurs.

Working Principle of an Oil Mist Detector:- An OMD works on the principle of detecting oil mist density
in the engine crankcase. The process typically involves:

 Air Sampling:- Samples of air are drawn from various points in the crankcase.
 Oil Mist Detection:- The sampled air passes through a detection chamber where the density of the oil
mist is measured, usually by:

1. Photoelectric (Light Scattering): Light beams detect the concentration of oil mist particles in the air. A
high density of oil mist scatters light, triggering an alarm.
2. Capacitance Measurement: Measures changes in dielectric properties due to oil mist presence.

 Alarm Activation:- If the oil mist density exceeds the safe limit, an alarm is triggered, and the engine
may automatically shut down to prevent further damage or explosion.

REASON OF CRANKCASE EXPLOSIONS:-


Oil mist is created when lubricating oil comes into contact with excessively hot surfaces inside the crankcase.
Common sources of heat include:

 Overheated bearings: Due to lack of lubrication, misalignment, or excessive load.


 Hot spots on piston surfaces: Caused by scuffing, sticking, or overheating.
 Blow-by gases: High-temperature combustion gases leaking past piston rings into the crankcase.

Crankcase Explosion Sequence:-

 Primary Explosion: Initial ignition of the oil mist creates a pressure wave.
 Secondary Explosion: If the crankcase relief valves fail or are unable to vent the pressure effectively,
additional oil mist can ignite, leading to a larger explosion.
INTERLOCKS IN A MAIN ENGINE:- are safety mechanisms designed to ensure safe operation
by preventing incorrect or unsafe actions. These systems are essential for protecting both the engine and the
crew from potential hazards during operation, starting, or stopping of the engine.

Interlocks can be electrical, pneumatic, hydraulic, or mechanical, and they function by inhibiting certain
operations unless specific conditions are met.

Common Interlocks in a Main Engine

Interlock Purpose
Prevents the engine from starting unless all required systems (air
Starting Air Interlock
pressure, direction) are ready.
Turning Gear Interlock Prevents engine starting when the turning gear is engaged.
Ensures the correct running direction is selected before allowing fuel
Running Direction Interlock
injection or starting.
Low Lubricating Oil Pressure Stops the engine or prevents starting if lube oil pressure is too low to
Interlock avoid damage.
Prevents the engine from starting if the crankcase door is open to avoid
Crankcase Door Interlock
explosion risk.
Emergency Stop Interlock Prevents starting if the engine is in an emergency stop condition.
Ensures that the camshaft is in the correct position for the intended
Camshaft Position Interlock
running direction.
Cooling Water Low Pressure Stops the engine if cooling water pressure is insufficient to avoid
Interlock overheating.

Explanation of Running Direction Interlock

Purpose:- The running direction interlock ensures that the engine runs in the correct direction (ahead or
astern) as per the operator’s command, particularly on reversible engines. This is crucial to prevent engine
damage and ensure operational safety during maneuvers like docking or emergency stops.

Functionality:

 The main engine’s starting air distributor sets the engine to run in a specific direction (ahead or astern).
 The running direction interlock prevents the engine from injecting fuel or starting until the direction
selector matches the actual running direction of the engine.
 On reversible engines, the interlock ensures the proper alignment of:

Fuel Injection Timing, Exhaust Valve Timing, Starting Air Valve Timing

Operation:

 Reversible Engines:- If the engine is set to run in the "ahead" direction but the system detects "astern,"
fuel injection and starting air are blocked until the correct direction is confirmed. This prevents damage
caused by injecting fuel with incorrect timing or misaligned valves.
 Non-Reversible Engines:- The running direction interlock ensures that air or fuel injection happens
only when the propulsion system (e.g., controllable pitch propeller or fixed gear) matches the desired
direction of the engine.
SCAVENGE MANIFOLD: PRESSURE SWITCH, ELECTRICAL BLOWER, AND AUTO MODE

The scavenge manifold is a critical component of a two-stroke marine engine, responsible for supplying
fresh air to the cylinders for combustion. To ensure proper operation and protect the engine, various control
and safety devices are installed, including pressure switches and electric blowers. Here’s an explanation of
their functions and why the system is typically kept in auto mode.

Pressure Switch in the Scavenge Manifold:- The pressure switch is installed in the scavenge manifold to
monitor the air pressure within the manifold.

 Function:- Monitors the pressure of scavenge air delivered to the cylinders. Triggers an alarm or
activates the blowers if the pressure falls below a preset value.
 Purpose:- Ensures there is sufficient air pressure for proper combustion in the cylinders. Prevents
conditions like under-scavenging, which can lead to poor combustion or cylinder overheating. Acts as
an input for starting or stopping the auxiliary blowers (electric blowers).

Electrical Blower: Starting and Stopping

 Electrical blowers (also known as auxiliary blowers) provide scavenge air under certain conditions,
especially when the main engine-driven turbochargers cannot supply enough air. Here's how they
operate:
 Starting:- The electrical blower starts automatically when the scavenge air pressure drops below the
preset level. This can occur:

 Stopping:- The blower stops automatically when the scavenge air pressure reaches or exceeds the set
threshold, indicating that the turbocharger is supplying adequate air.

Why the Blower System is Kept in Auto Mode

The auto mode is essential for ensuring efficient and safe engine operation without requiring constant
manual intervention. Here’s why:

 Seamless Transition:- The system automatically engages the blower when scavenge air pressure drops
and disengages it when pressure is restored. This ensures there is always adequate air for combustion,
regardless of engine load or operational phase.
 Fuel Efficiency:- At high engine loads, when the turbocharger can provide sufficient air, the blower
stops, saving electrical energy and reducing overall fuel consumption.
 Protection Against Under-Scavenging:- Under-scavenging can lead to incomplete combustion,
causing increased fuel consumption, carbon deposits, and potential damage to the engine. Auto mode
ensures that air supply is adjusted dynamically to prevent such conditions.
 Safety:- Automatic operation eliminates the risk of human error, ensuring that the blower operates
precisely when needed, especially during critical phases like engine start-up or stopping.

# In a ship's steering system, three control modes are typically used to maneuver the vessel: Follow-Up
(FU), Non-Follow-Up (NFU), and Auto Pilot.

 Follow-Up (FU) Mode:-In this the rudder moves to match the desired rudder angle set on the steering
wheel or control lever. The movement is automated and precisely controlled by the system.
 Non-Follow-Up (NFU) Mode:- In this the rudder moves in the direction the control lever is pushed and
stops when the lever is released. It does not "follow" a preset angle.
 Auto Pilot Mode:- It automates steering by maintaining a preset course. It uses input from navigation
systems like gyroscopes, compasses, or GPS to keep the vessel on track.
COMPARISON OF MODES FOLLOW-UP, NON- FOLLOW UP AND AUTO PILOT MODE

Feature Follow-Up Mode Non-Follow-Up Mode Auto Pilot Mode


Control Type Rudder follows preset angle Direct rudder movement Automated course steering
Feedback System Yes No Yes
Operation Precise and smooth Manual and momentary Automated adjustments
Use Case Normal operations Emergencies or manual backup Long voyages/open sea

Here is the comparison of 2-RAM & 4-RAM STEERING GEAR SYSTEMS:-

Aspect 2-Ram Steering Gear 4-Ram Steering Gear


Number of Rams Two hydraulic rams Four hydraulic rams

Limited redundancy: If one ram fails, the High redundancy: If one ram fails, the other three can
Redundancy
system may lose functionality. maintain steering.
Requires two independent power units to meet redundancy
Power Units Typically uses one or two power units.
requirements.
Hydraulic Two hydraulic cylinders are used to move the
Four hydraulic cylinders provide added force and safety.
Cylinders rudder.
Force Generates adequate force for medium-size
Generates greater force, suitable for larger vessels.
Generation vessels.
Complexity Simpler in design and maintenance. More complex due to additional components and piping.

Used on medium-sized vessels with less Commonly used on larger vessels (e.g., tankers, bulk
Applications
demanding steering requirements. carriers) that require higher steering power.
Space Occupies less space compared to the 4-ram
Requires more space due to additional rams and components.
Requirement system.
More expensive due to the extra components and higher
Cost Cheaper to install and maintain.
redundancy.
Safety Lower safety margin in case of failure. Higher safety margin due to redundancy and distributed load.
MOORING WINCH HYDRAULIC CIRCUIT:- controls the forward and reverse operations of a
mooring winch, which is used to manage the mooring ropes during docking or undocking of a ship. Below is
an explanation of the hydraulic circuit used for forward and reverse motion.

Forward Operation- When the control lever is moved to the forward position, the directional control valve
(DCV) routes the hydraulic fluid from the pump to one side of the hydraulic motor. The pressurized fluid
drives the motor in a specific direction, causing the winch drum to rotate and reel in the mooring line. The
return fluid from the hydraulic motor flows back to the reservoir through the DCV.

Reverse Operation:- When the control lever is moved to the reverse position, the Directional Control
Valve directs the hydraulic fluid to the opposite side of the hydraulic motor. This reverses the rotation of the
motor, causing the winch drum to rotate in the opposite direction and pay out the mooring line.The return
fluid flows back to the reservoir through the DCV.

Neutral Position- In the neutral position, the DCV blocks the flow of hydraulic fluid to the motor,
effectively stopping the rotation of the winch drum. The hydraulic fluid is circulated back to the reservoir
without engaging the motor.
REFRIGERATION SYSTEM:- on ships is essential for preserving perishable goods such as meat,
fish, vegetables, and dairy products. Typically, this system is divided into different zones based on the type
of goods being stored, each with specific temperature requirements. Here's an overview of the domestic
refrigeration system, including the meat room, fish room, and vegetable room.

Components of a Ship's Refrigeration System

 Compressor: Compresses refrigerant gas to a high pressure and temperature.


 Condenser: Condenses the refrigerant gas into a liquid by cooling it with seawater or air.
 Receiver: Stores the condensed refrigerant.
 Expansion Valve: Regulates the flow of refrigerant to the evaporator.
 Evaporator: Absorbs heat from the refrigerated space, cooling the air inside.
 Temperature Controller: Maintains the desired temperature in each room.
 Insulated Rooms: Prevents heat ingress into the refrigerated spaces.

Types of Refrigerated Rooms and Their Temperatures

Room Purpose Typical Temperature


Meat Room Stores frozen meat -14°C to -20°C
Fish Room Stores frozen fish -14°C to -20°C
Vegetable Room Stores fresh vegetables and fruits +2°C to +5°C
Domestic Fridge Used for food and beverages (kitchen) +4°C to +8°C

Each room is equipped with its own evaporator coil and temperature control system to ensure the specific
requirements for the stored products are met.

Working of the Refrigeration System:-The operation is based on the vapor-compression cycle, which
involves four key steps:

 Compression:- The refrigerant gas is compressed in the compressor, increasing its temperature and
pressure.
 Condensation:- The high-pressure refrigerant passes through the condenser, where it loses heat and
turns into a high-pressure liquid.
 Expansion:- The liquid refrigerant flows through the expansion valve, where its pressure drops, turning
it into a low-pressure, low-temperature liquid.
 Evaporation:- The refrigerant enters the evaporator, absorbs heat from the room, and evaporates,
cooling the air in the process.

The cycle repeats continuously to maintain the desired temperatures.

Temperature Control for Each Room:- Each refrigerated room has separate temperature controls and
monitoring systems:

 Thermostatic Expansion Valves (TXVs): Regulate refrigerant flow to maintain the desired
temperature.
 Defrost Systems: Prevent ice build-up on the evaporator coils, which can reduce efficiency.
 Alarms and Sensors: Alert the crew if temperatures deviate from preset values.

Maintenance Considerations:- Leak Checks, Defrosting, Seawater Cooling, Calibration.


LEAK DETECTION TECHNIQUES IN REFRIGERATION SYSTEMS

Refrigerant leaks in refrigeration systems can compromise efficiency, damage components, and harm the
environment.

Here are the most common techniques to detect leaks:

 Soap Solution Method (Bubble Test)


 Electronic Leak Detectors
 Ultraviolet (UV) Dye Detection
 Halide Torch
 Pressure Testing (Vacuum or Nitrogen Test)
 Acoustic Detection
 Infrared Leak Detectors

BACK PRESSURE VALVE IN REFRIGERATION SYSTEMS

Back Pressure Valve (BPV) is a control valve used in refrigeration systems to maintain a constant pressure
in the evaporator, ensuring the desired operating conditions are met.

Purpose of Back Pressure Valve

 Pressure Regulation:- Maintains a set pressure in the evaporator to prevent freezing or ensure efficient
cooling. Ensures that specific evaporators operate independently in multi-evaporator systems.
 Temperature Control:- By maintaining pressure, it indirectly controls the evaporator temperature,
which depends on the pressure-temperature relationship of the refrigerant.
 Efficiency Optimization:- Prevents overloading of the compressor by maintaining pressure balance.

Working Principle-

 When the evaporator pressure exceeds the set value, the BPV opens, allowing the refrigerant to flow out
of the evaporator.
 When the pressure drops below the set value, the valve closes, retaining refrigerant and maintaining the
desired pressure.

SAFTEY DEVICE ON REFRIGERATION SYSTEM:-

 Low Pressure Cut off


 Low Oil Cut off
 Solenoid Valve
 Oil Heaters
 High pressure Cut off
 Thermostatic Expansion Valve

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