10 Useful Tips for Efficient Electronic Marine Engine Operation

The “electronic era” has already begun in the maritime industry. Today, nearly all maritime machinery is equipped with electronic and automation technologies, ranging from remote controlled operations to cutting-edge pollution control techniques. The two stroke main engines of the ships have significantly benefited from “electronic improvements.” The fundamental idea behind how marine engines generate power is the same in electronic versions. The main engine’s performance and efficiency are improved by the electrical system. Today, many ships are equipped with electronic marine engines, therefore marine engineers must thoroughly comprehend these engines before operating them.

Upkeep of the mechanical parts

Marine engines will always have mechanical moving parts, regardless of how technologically advanced the ships get. Ensure that all mechanical components of marine engines receive the appropriate regular maintenance at regular intervals.

Maintain the interface between mechanical and electronic

The sensors, which are coupled to a mechanically moving or stationary component, supply all of the signals to the electronic engine. For instance, the Injection control unit, which receives its signal from the “Injection quantity piston,” will be the primary electronic control unit in the fuel injection system. Make sure that this mechanical component is free to move and well-maintained. Any obstruction in the motion or stuck motion will cause the control unit to get an incorrect or error signal.

Control the neighborhood

Temperature is a sensitive factor in all electronic systems. An air conditioning unit is used to maintain a  comfortable temperature for the controls that are installed inside the engine control room. Near the engine are numerous control panels. Make sure there is adequate airflow close to the control units. Additionally, check to see that the units are securely fastened, as vibration can cause irregular readings and harm the electrical components.

Upkeep of the sensors

The engine is equipped with a variety of sensors, including pressure, temperature, crank angle, and rpm sensors. All of these sensors must be routinely inspected for debris, deposits, and misalignment, and they must all undergo periodic calibration. Another crucial aspect that needs to be routinely monitored is the distance between the sensor tip and the object.

Verify the Connections and Cables

Cables that are attached to both the sensors and the control units transmit the readings obtained by the sensors to the latter. These cables need to have their connections and continuity checked on a regular basis, and any abnormalities need to be fixed very away.

Make Sure There Are Enough PLCs and Electronic Spares Available

An electronic engine’s troubleshooting process can get exceedingly intricate. When a PLC malfunctions, it may be necessary to “blind-shoot” the process by switching out other PLCs and sensors because only highly qualified experts can accurately identify these problems. Therefore, make sure there are enough of these crucial spares onboard at all times.

Browse manuals

The de facto guide for troubleshooting on ships is the manual. It’s essential to have solid knowledge and comprehension of how to read circuit diagrams and electronic systems. When you have some free time, make sure to read all the key engine control manuals that have been handed to the engine room and become familiar with the system.

Keep an eye on your hard drive space

Modern electronic engines’ hard disks are designed to hold historical data with a storage capacity of several GBs. One day it will eventually fill up, at which point a “no space” warning will appear. Keep track of the hard drive space on a frequent basis and alert the office as soon as it is about to fill up.

Avoid using an electric arc welder

Always avoid employing electric-arc welding if it’s necessary to weld in or close to the electronically controlled primary engine since it could harm the engine’s electronic circuitry. Additionally, the earthing cable needs to be close to the welding area itself to prevent the effects of stray current.

Magnetic Field Electron

Installation of the engine electronic circuit must keep its component cable away from the 440 V high tension cable. The electromagnetic field created by the 440 volt wire will interfere with the signal from the electronic circuit and result in an incorrect input or output.