Be Prepared: Essential Steps for a Blackout and Emergency Generator

Table of Contents

1. Introduction
2. Emergency Generator
   • 2.1 Capacity and Essential Loads
3. Steps to Take During a Blackout
   • 3.1 Stay Calm
   • 3.2 Wait for the Emergency Generator
   • 3.3 Checking the Alarm and Monitoring System
4. Restarting the Main Power
   • 4.1 Closing Non-Essential Loads
   • 4.2 Troubleshooting the Blackout Cause
   • 4.3 Running the Main Power from the Switchboard
5. Starting the Emergency Generator
   • 5.1 Automatic Start
   • 5.2 Manual Start using the Battery
   • 5.3 Manual Start using the Hydraulic System
6. Load Testing the Emergency Generator
7. Troubleshooting Emergency Switchboard Issues
8. Restoring Power and System Readiness
9. Conclusion

Article

Introduction

Welcome back to my YouTube channel! In today's video, we will discuss what to do in case of a blackout on a vessel. Blackouts can be challenging, especially if it's your first time experiencing one. However, staying calm and following the appropriate steps will help you navigate through this situation with ease.

Emergency Generator

The vessel is equipped with an emergency generator that has a capacity of around 480 kilowatts. This generator is sufficient to supply all the essential loads, including navigational equipment and other critical systems that ensure the vessel's safety. Let's explore the steps you need to take during a blackout to restore the main power.

Steps to Take During a Blackout

3.1 Stay Calm

The first and most important thing to do during a blackout is to stay calm. Panicking will only hinder the proper execution of the emergency procedures. Remember that the vessel is equipped with a system that automatically runs during blackouts, so there is no need to panic. Take a deep breath and focus on the next steps.

3.2 Wait for the Emergency Generator

The emergency generator should take over within 45 seconds of the blackout. As an engineer, your primary task is to wait patiently during this time. Trust the automated system to restore the power. However, if the emergency generator fails to start within 45 seconds, a different scenario will arise, which we will address later.

3.3 Checking the Alarm and Monitoring System

Once the emergency generator is running, it's essential to check the alarm and monitoring system. This system will indicate the cause of the blackout. Identify the last alarm triggered and use it as a starting point for troubleshooting. This step is crucial in understanding the root cause of the blackout.

Restarting the Main Power

4.1 Closing Non-Essential Loads

To restore the power to the main switchboard, close the steam for non-essential loads. This action will ensure that enough steam is available for the main engine to operate. Closing non-essential loads is a responsibility of the engineers, and it plays a crucial role in the overall restoration process.

4.2 Troubleshooting the Blackout Cause

With the alarm and monitoring system providing insights into the blackout cause, it's time to start troubleshooting. Following the established protocols, investigate the equipment or system that triggered the alarm. Once identified, take the necessary steps to rectify the issue and prevent similar blackouts in the future.

4.3 Running the Main Power from the Switchboard

The main objective during a blackout is to restore power from the main switchboard supplied by the main generator. This switchboard houses essential loads, including navigational equipment, backup supply voltage, propulsion system, and fire alarm system, among others. Ensure that the power is successfully restored to the main switchboard before proceeding.

Starting the Emergency Generator

5.1 Automatic Start

In ideal scenarios, the emergency generator starts automatically within 45 seconds. If this happens, the system will smoothly transition to the emergency generator. Regular weekly maintenance and preventive measures will ensure the automatic start runs seamlessly.

5.2 Manual Start using the Battery

If the emergency generator fails to start automatically within the designated time, a backup plan using the battery is available. Switch the lever to manual mode and check the position of the switch (battery or hydraulic). By following the correct steps, the emergency generator can be manually started using the battery.

5.3 Manual Start using the Hydraulic System

In worst-case scenarios where both the automatic start and the battery fail, the emergency generator can still be started using the hydraulic system. Change the lever to manual mode, verify the switch position (hydraulic), and check the pressure on the line. By applying hydraulic pressure using the handle, the generator will start.

Load Testing the Emergency Generator

After successfully starting the emergency generator, it is essential to conduct a load test. This test ensures that the generator can handle the necessary loads and provide power uninterrupted. However, it's crucial to conduct the load test when the main engine is not running to avoid any interference with essential loads.

Troubleshooting Emergency Switchboard Issues

There might be instances where the emergency generator is running, but it fails to supply power to the emergency switchboard. To address this issue, check the circuit breaker connecting the emergency generator to the switchboard. This breaker has an interlock with the pass tie to the main switchboard, and if not properly configured, it can disrupt power supply. Ensure the breaker is closed or open as required.

Restoring Power and System Readiness

Once the cause of the blackout is identified, rectified, and power is restored, it's time to stop the emergency generator. Switch the emergency switchboard back to the main switchboard and set everything in automatic operation. This ensures that the system is ready to handle any future emergencies effectively.

Conclusion

In summary, experiencing a blackout on a vessel can be challenging but manageable. By staying calm, waiting for the emergency generator, troubleshooting the cause, and restoring the main power, you can navigate through this situation successfully. Regular maintenance and adherence to protocols will ensure the smooth operation of the emergency generator system. Remember to subscribe, comment, and share your thoughts on what you'd like to learn next in the maritime industry. See you in the next video!

Highlights

• Learn the essential steps to take during a blackout on a vessel
• Understand the role of the emergency generator in restoring power
• Stay calm and allow the automated system to function during a blackout
• Troubleshoot the cause of the blackout using the alarm and monitoring system
• Close non-essential loads to conserve steam for the main engine
• Start the emergency generator automatically, manually using the battery, or manually using the hydraulic system
• Conduct load testing to ensure the emergency generator can handle necessary loads
• Troubleshoot issues with the emergency switchboard and circuit breaker
• Restore power and system readiness for future emergencies
• Regular maintenance and preventive measures are crucial for seamless operation.

FAQ

Q: What should I do if the emergency generator fails to start automatically? A: If the emergency generator fails to start within 45 seconds, you can try starting it manually using the battery or the hydraulic system.

Q: How can I identify the cause of a blackout? A: You can identify the cause of a blackout by checking the alarm and monitoring system, which will indicate the last triggered alarm.

Q: What should I do if the emergency generator is running but not supplying power to the emergency switchboard? A: Check the circuit breaker connecting the emergency generator to the switchboard. Ensure it is closed or open as required and has the proper interlock with the pass tie to the main switchboard.

Q: When should I conduct a load test on the emergency generator? A: Conduct a load test on the emergency generator when the main engine is not running to avoid interference with essential loads.