Question

Briefly describe your action plan on following exigencies:

(a) Leaky economizer tube, while at sea.

(b) Leaky intercooler of main air compressor, while maneuvering.

Answer 1

Part (a)

Immediately inform the wheelhouse to stop the engine.
Take control of the Engine Control Room (ECR).
Maintain boiler water circulation pump operation. If the hot well level is low, top it up.
Open the turbocharger drain to check for water ingress and leave it open.
After 30-60 minutes (depending on leak severity), stop the boiler water circulating pump.
Locate the leaking tube by opening the EGB side door, restarting the circulating pump briefly to identify the leak, then stopping the pump and closing relevant valves.
Use manufacturer-supplied steel plugs to seal both ends of the leaking tube using offset plugs. Steam pressure will hold them in place.
Restart the circulating pump, vent the economizer, and verify no further leaks.
Close the door.
Run the circulating pump for 1-2 hours before restarting the main engine.

Part (b)

Immediately notify the wheelhouse about the issue to minimize engine movements, if operationally feasible, and avoid frequent start/stop cycles of the engine.
Shut down all non-essential services that use compressed air to reduce the demand on the main air compressor (MAC).

If a standby MAC is available:
- Isolate the affected compressor.
- Start and use the standby MAC to meet air requirements.
- Begin troubleshooting and repairs on the faulty intercooler.
If no standby MAC is available:
- Operate the compressor manually as needed to ensure sufficient compressed air supply.
- Shut the water valve before stopping to prevent water ingress into the air side.
- Start the compressor first and then open the water valve to ensure no water enters the air passages.
At the earliest safe opportunity, open the air compressor to locate and repair the leak to restore full functionality and prevent further issues.

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