(Mars 201914) The vessel was inbound and the master/pilot exchange had just been completed. Suddenly, the auto emergency slowdown alarm for the main engine sounded and the RPMs began dropping.
As the vessel was in the channel and there was traffic nearby the emergency slowdown override was activated and vessel was steered clear off all traffic. Then, in consultation with the pilot, the main engine telegraph was brought to Stop.
Crew already stationed at the bow were asked to lower the starboard anchor to water level for immediate use. The bridge was then informed that the automatic slowdown was caused by a crack in the main engine unit number two cylinder jacket cover, which had caused a loss of pressure in the cooling water system. The vessel was maintained in safe waters on the bank of the channel using the bow thruster and helm.
Tugs were called for additional safety. The propulsion was restored by isolating the number two unit and the vessel brought to berth.
Lessons Learned
- The investigation found that one of the four screws that secured the jacket had not been tightened correctly. This in turn had affected the gap between the cooling jacket and the screw head, causing the cooling jacket to crack.
- Irrespective of the actual cause of the failure, the bridge team reacted with aplomb by overriding the automatic slowdown for the time needed to place the ship in a secure position, avoiding any further damage.
MARS Reports
This is one of the February MARS Reports that are part of Report Number 316. A selection of this Report has also been published in SWZ|Maritime’s March issue.
Acknowledgement
Through the kind intermediary of The Nautical Institute we gratefully acknowledge sponsorship provided by:
American Bureau of Shipping, AR Brink & Associates, Britannia P&I Club, Cargill, Class NK, DNV, Gard, IHS Fairplay Safety at Sea International, International Institute of Marine Surveying, Lairdside Maritime Centre, London Offshore Consultants, MOL Tankship Management (Europe) Ltd, Noble Denton, North of England P&I Club, Sail Training International, Shipowners Club, The Marine Society and Sea Cadets, The Swedish Club, UK Hydrographic Office, West of England P&I Club
Submit a Mars Report
More reports are needed to keep the scheme interesting and informative. All reports are read only by the Mars coordinator and are treated in the strictest confidence. To submit a report, please use the Mars report form and send it to mars@nautinst.org.
