SUBJECT: Increase in Fuel Consumption of Main Engine, MT Aimsmaritime Through The Master, MT Aimsmaritime

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Question 9

Your vessel, which had recently been dry docked, is showing a significant increase in fuel oil
consumption. Frame a report, in the format of an e-mail message, addressed to the Engineer
Superintendent. Discuss the related inspections made, findings established and suggestions for repair, if
any.

To
[email protected]
cc : [email protected]
bcc : [email protected]

SUBJECT: Increase in Fuel consumption of Main Engine, MT Aimsmaritime

Through the Master, MT Aimsmaritime

Respected Sir,

Subsequent to the email sent on 16/04/2016 and reference telephonic


conversation, the cause of increase in fuel oil consumption for main engine was studied and
following conclusions reached for remedies. On 11/04/2016, MT Aframax undocked from
Colombo dry dock. All surveys had been completed to Class satisfaction. The vessel
commenced her ballast voyage to Fujairah for loading.

After 24 hrs of sailing, Main engine was stopped for short interval, for all relevant
checks to be made, especially on main propulsion plant.

On 14 04-2016 at 1200 hrs it was noticed that the main engine fuel oil
consumption has increased by 20% as compared to earlier (normal) ballast voyage
consumption at a steady speed of 80 RPM. After rechecking the FO flow meter to confirm
that it was not malfunctioning. It was decided to carry out detailed check to ascertain the
reason for increase in consumption.

A Set of indicator card was taken and compared with those taken earlier during
ballast voyages as well as at the time of sea trials. It was found that the Pmax of all units
had increase by around 25% for the same engine speed (80rpm) and the fuel index
readings were higher.

On 15-04-2016 all the checks were made on main engine, VIT setting, Turbocharger,
FO pumps, Thrust bearings, bottom end bearings, and crosshead bearings. After comparing
with earlier data, all reading were found satisfactory with no visible defect noticed.
Vessel proceeded to load port at low speed with continuous monitoring of engine
parameters. The Vessel was anchored and expected time at the anchorage will be of about
24 hrs. As requested a diver team was arranged by the local agent to inspect hull and
propeller. It was found that the trailing edges of the 2 adjacent blades where distorted. It
was suspected that the propeller had struck some under water object, while undocking, as
some vibrations were felt at the time.

The damaged areas of the propeller can be seen in the underwater photograph taken. The
relevant area are also been marked in the drawing of the propeller, which is scanned and
attached with this mail.

The vessel is in ballast, it could be trimmed by head to access the propeller blades for
repair. The agent had confirmed the anchorage period to be minimum 24 hrs and the
necessary port clearances to carry out the repair work at anchorage were obtainable. He
was asked to make the necessary arrangements for an approved workshop to carry out
trimming operation on the propeller blades. Trimming off the blades will be accomplished
by using pneumatic tools and care will be taken to do so without damaging the propeller.

Expected duration of the repair work is 6 hrs. Details of the cost/workshop


expenses incurred will be reverted to you through the agents. We estimate the entire repair
work should be completed at least 4 hrs before berthing at the port. As such the vessel
would not be delayed on account of this repair. Details of the performance test carried out
have been recorded in the performance test sheet of 16-04-2016.

A detailed work done report will be couriered. The Class surveyor will be present
throughout the repair, so that all work can be carried out under his direct supervision.
Awaiting your permission to go ahead with the same.

Thanking you
Your Sincerely
Chief Engineer
XYZ
MT Aimsmaritime

Attachments:

a. Detailed reports of main engine fuel pump checks, VIT racks and scavenge
space inspection
b. The crank shaft deflection reading taken on 16-04-2016 as well as those
taken before drydock.
c. All bearing clearances report
d. Diver report and workshop plan.
e. Mail requesting class surveyor attendance
f. Workshop quotation for the job.

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