Class 2 (2nd Engineer) MEKG 📅 Feb 2023

Exam Question

Misalignment of the main shafting between engine and propller causes bearing overloads and shaft stress.

(a) State the difficulties associated with checking shaft alignment and the reasons why results are unreliable due to external factors

(b) Explain with a simple sketch how a bearing load is assessed

Reference Answer

### (a) Difficulties in Checking Shaft Alignment and Reasons for Unreliability
#### Difficulties Associated with Checking Shaft Alignment
Checking the alignment of a vessel's main propulsion shafting is a complex task fraught with inherent difficulties, both during initial installation and throughout the vessel's service life.
* **Static vs. Dynamic State:** The fundamental difficulty lies in aligning a system that is designed to operate dynamically while the checks are performed under static conditions. The ship's hull is a flexible structure, and its shape changes significantly between the berthed/dry-dock condition and the afloat, loaded condition. Hydrostatic pressures, cargo distribution, and ballast all influence the hull girder's deflection.

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