Diagnostics of Vessel Power Plants

In this paper, the problems of diagnostics of main propulsion marine engines are presented. Diesel or turbine engines are used for main propulsion of vessel power plants. Marine engine is a complex technical object. For the purpose of diagnostics it is convenient to divide the engine into several units – subsystems such as: piston –crank assembly; working medium exchange system, fuel supply system, lubricating system, cooling system, starting up – reversing system; combustion chamber. The organization of the marine engine diagnostic process can usually come down to two stages, general diagnostics and damage location. Most popular in marine engine diagnostics have been the periodic run analyzers, called pressure analyzers, electronic indicators or MIP (Mean Indicated Pressure) calculators. Marine turbine engine operation requires professional technical supervision. The basic diagnostic system of marine turbine engine is able to assess the current engine condition and give forecast concerning its future operation in a complex way with the use of computer technology. Working out operating decision was based on proper preparation of operational parameters which were processed in a computer according to defined algorithms. Diesel engine diagnostic systems of merchant vessel engines are discussed. Finally, description of diagnostic methods implemented in turbine and piston engines in Polish Navy ships are introduced.