To:

The Superintendent,

MV. The Great,

Alpha Pvt. Ltd.,

Singapore.

From: (Name/Rank)

Date:

Subject: Breakdown of Main Refrigeration Plant – Cargo Provisions

Dear Sir,

This report details the breakdown of the main refrigeration plant for cargo provisions on DD/MM/YYYY at 0900 hours.

The duty engineer discovered a low refrigerant level in the system and initiated a charging procedure. However, during charging from the low-pressure (LP) side, the liquid valve on the refrigerant gas bottle was inadvertently opened instead of the gas valve. Upon starting the compressor, abnormal noise was detected, resulting in the compressor tripping.

A subsequent inspection revealed the following:

• The compressor was difficult to turn manually.
• Examination of the crankcase revealed a bent connecting rod and fragments of piston rings.
• Complete dismantling of the compressor showed damage to the connecting rod, piston assembly, liner, and valve plate. The crankshaft was found to be undamaged.

The following repair actions were undertaken:

• The crankshaft was checked for bending and trueness and found to be in good condition.
• All compressor parts were thoroughly cleaned.
• The attached lubricating oil (L.O.) pump assembly was inspected and found to be in good working order.
• The piston and connecting rod assembly, liner, and valve plate were replaced with new parts.
• All separators and filter dryers were cleaned.
• The compressor was reassembled.
• The compressor oil was renewed.
• The system was purged of air.

The primary cause of the breakdown was the incorrect operation of the valves on the refrigerant gas bottle, leading to liquid refrigerant entering the compressor.

To prevent similar incidents, the following measures have been implemented:

• The valves on all refrigerant gas bottles have been clearly marked with different colours and labels to improve identification.
• All crew and engineers have received further instruction and briefing on the correct procedure for refrigerant charging. Particular emphasis was placed on the dangers of introducing liquid refrigerant into the compressor.
• A copy of the approved refrigerant charging procedure is now prominently displayed near the compressor and gas bottles.
• Close monitoring of the refrigeration plant will be maintained. Regular checks and detailed logs will be recorded.
• No refrigerant charging will be undertaken without prior notification and authorisation from the Chief Engineer or Second Engineer.

Yours Sincerely,

(Your Name/Rank)