The responsibilities of
the marine engineer are rarely confined
to the machinery space. Different companies have different practices, but usually
all shipboard machinery, with the exception of radio equipment, is maintained
by the marine engineer. Electrical engineers may be carried on very large
ships, but if not, the electrical equipment is also maintained by the engineer.
A broad-based theoretical and practical training is therefore necessary for a
marine engineer. He must be a mechanical, electrical, air conditioning,
ventilation and refrigeration engineer, as the need arises. Unlike his
shore-based opposite number in these occupations, he must also deal with the
specialised requirements of a floating platform in a most corrosive
environment. Furthermore he must be self sufficient and capable of getting the
job done with the facilities at his disposal.
The modern ship is a
complex collection of self-sustaining machinery providing the facilities to support
a small community for a considerable period of time. To simplify the
understanding of all this equipment is the purpose here. This equipment is
dealt with either as a complete system comprising small items or individual
larger items. In the latter case, especially, the choices are often
considerable. A knowledge of machinery and equipment operation provides the
basis for effective maintenance.
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