You must be on the alert for even the most minor sign of faulty operation of machinery. Pay particular and continuous attention to the following symptoms of malfunctioning:

- Unusual noises

- Vibrations

- Abnormal temperatures

- Abnormal pressures

- Abnormal operating speeds

- Leakage from systems or associated equipment

You should become thoroughly familiar with the normal operating temperatures, pressures, and speeds of equipment specified for each condition of operation; departures from normal will then be readily apparent. NEVER assume that an abnormal reading on a gauge or other indicating instrument is due to a problem with the instrument. Investigate each case to learn the cause of the abnormal reading. Substitute a spare instrument or perform a calibration test to quickly show whether an instrument error exists. Trace abnormal readings that are not caused by faulty instruments to their source. Some specific advance warnings of failure are outlined in the following paragraphs.

The safety factor commonly incorporated in pumps and similar equipment can allow a considerable loss of capacity before you see any external evidence of trouble. In pressure-governor-controlled equipment, view changes in operating speeds from normal for the existing load with suspicion. Variations from normal in chest pressures, lubricating oil temperatures, and system pressures indicate either improper operation or poor condition of the machinery. When a material failure occurs in any unit, promptly inspect all similar units to determine whether they are subject to the same type of failure. Prompt inspection may eliminate a wave of similar casualties.

Abnormal wear, fatigue, erosion, or corrosion of a part may indicate that the equipment is not being operated within its designed limits of loading, speed, and lubrication. It also may indicate a design or material deficiency. If any of these symptoms have appeared, you should routinely carry out special inspections to detect damage unless you can take action to ensure that such a condition will not recur.

ENGINE-ROOM CASUALTIES

Even with the best-trained personnel and the best-planned maintenance programs, casualties will occur. WHEN COMBATING AN ENGINE-ROOM CASUALTY, USE YOUR EOCC.

DIESEL ENGINE CASUALTIES

The Enginemans duties concerning engineering casualties and their control depend upon the type of shipwhich may be anything from a torpedo weapons retriever (TWR) to a carrier. An Engineman operates engines of various sizes, made by various manufacturers, and intended for different types of services.

Some examples of the types of engineering casualties that may occur and the action to be taken are given in the sections that follow. The observance of all necessary safety precautions is essential in all casualty control procedures.

1. Inoperative speed governor

a. Control the engine manually, if possible.

b. Notify the engineer officer and the bridge, and request permission to secure the engine for repairs.

c. When you get permission, check the governor control mechanism.

d.Check the linkage for binding or sticking.

e. Check the lubrication; flush the governor sump and refill it with proper oil.

f. Check the setting of the needle valve.

g.Make repairs. When you have completed the repairs, start the engine and check its operation. When it is operating properly, notify the engineer officer and the bridge.

2. Engine cooling water temperature above the allowed limit

a. Notify the bridge.

b. Reduce the load and the speed of the engine.

c. Check the freshwater level in the expansion tank

d. Check the saltwater discharge pressure.

e. Check the sea suction and the discharge valves.

f. Vent the freshwater and the saltwater pumps.

g. Check the setting and operation of the temperature regulating valve,

3. Failed main engine lube oil pressure

a. Secure the engine immediately.

b.Notify the engineer officer and the bridge.

c. Check the sump oil level, the piping, the filters, the strainers, and the lube oil pump capacity. Make the repairs.

d.After you have completed the repairs, notify the engineer officer and the bridge.

For more generalized examples of main engine (diesel-drive) casualties, refer to Damage Control Engineering Casualty Control, Chapter 079, Volume 3, of NSTM.

To obtain detailed information on diesel engine casualty control procedures, refer to the manufacturers instructions, the pertinent type commanders instructions, and the ships Engineering Casualty Control Manual.