Practical Marine Electrical Knowledge: Program 7. Electrical Survey Requirements

Introduction

This tutorial provides essential steps and guidelines for preparing for an electrical survey on board a ship. It is based on Program 7 of the Practical Marine Electrical Knowledge series. Understanding these requirements is crucial for sea-going personnel to ensure the safe operation, testing, and maintenance of marine electrical systems, adhering to international safety regulations.

Step 1: Understand the Electrical Safety Golden Rule

• Before any work is carried out on electrical installations:
  • Isolate the circuit by removing supply fuses or locking the circuit-breaker in the open position.
  • Post a warning sign to alert others that work is being conducted on the circuit.
  • Prove the circuit is dead using a voltmeter or an approved line tester.

Step 2: Conduct a Comprehensive Survey of Electrical Equipment

• Review all ship's electrical equipment to ensure compliance with safety regulations.
• Familiarize yourself with the layout of the main and emergency switchboards.

Step 3: Follow Electrical Survey Guidance

• Adhere to guidelines set by the International Maritime Organization and the International Electrotechnical Convention regarding safe electrical practices.

Step 4: Prepare Insulation Test Reports

• Ensure insulation test reports are available, as they are critical for assessing the condition of electrical systems.

Step 5: Inspect Generator Windings and Instruments

• Check the condition of generator windings and associated instrumentation.
• Look for signs of wear or damage that could affect performance.

Step 6: Test Synchronizing and Running in Parallel

• Perform tests to verify that generators can synchronize and run in parallel effectively.

Step 7: Test Emergency Generator Systems

• Test the automatic start-up system for the emergency generator.
• Switch the emergency generator to the main switchboard to ensure functionality.

Step 8: Check Main Switchboard Connections

• Inspect all connections in the main switchboard for security and integrity.
• Verify busbar connections to ensure they are properly secured.

Step 9: Assess Circuit-Breakers Condition

• Examine the condition of all circuit-breakers, ensuring they operate correctly and safely.

Step 10: Test Reverse Power Relay and Referential Trip Relay

• Conduct tests on reverse power relays and referential trip relays to confirm they function as intended.

Step 11: Examine Starters and Motor Stator Windings

• Check starters for proper operation.
• Inspect the condition of motor stator windings for any signs of damage or wear.

Step 12: Review Steering Gear System and Electric Supplies

• Assess the steering gear system for any faults.
• Ensure both main and alternative electric supplies are operational.

Step 13: Check Rudder Position Indicator and Emergency Batteries

• Verify the functionality of the rudder position indicator.
• Inspect emergency batteries to ensure they are charged and operational.

Step 14: Inspect Navigation Light Panel and External Lighting

• Test the navigation light panel and ensure all external floodlight fittings are working correctly.

Step 15: Review Cabling and Alarm Systems

• Inspect all cabling for wear or damage.
• Ensure the alarm systems in the engine room are functioning properly.

Step 16: Verify Spare Parts Requirements

• Assess the inventory of spare parts to ensure that critical components are available for maintenance and repairs.

Conclusion

By following the outlined steps, sea-going personnel can effectively prepare for an electrical survey, ensuring compliance with safety standards and the proper functioning of electrical systems on board. Familiarity with the ship's electrical layout and adherence to safety protocols are key to successful maintenance and troubleshooting. For further learning, consider exploring additional programs in the Practical Marine Electrical Knowledge series.