Exam Question
During the watch main engine crank case mist detector alarm has sounded
(a) List the steps to be taken to meet this emergency situation. (8)
(b) Subsequent inspection and action required to put the engine on normal operation (8)
Class 4 (4th Engineer)
MEP
📅 Sep 2022
Reference Answer
The sounding of a main engine crankcase mist detector alarm signifies a critical emergency situation due to the potential for a crankcase explosion. This alarm indicates the formation of an oil mist within the crankcase, typically caused by overheating of internal components such as bearings, pistons, or connecting rods. The oil mist, when mixed with air, forms a highly flammable atmosphere, and if a hot spot's temperature exceeds the auto-ignition temperature of the oil mist, a violent explosion can occur. The following steps are to be taken:
**(a) Steps to be taken to meet this emergency situation (8 marks):**
Upon a crankcase oil mist detector alarm, immediate and decisive action is paramount to prevent a catastrophic explosion. The steps are as follows:
* **1. Acknowledge and Verify Alarm:** Immediately acknowledge the alarm on the engine room alarm panel and confirm it is indeed the crankcase oil mist detector. Note the specific unit or zone indicated by the alarm.
**(a) Steps to be taken to meet this emergency situation (8 marks):**
Upon a crankcase oil mist detector alarm, immediate and decisive action is paramount to prevent a catastrophic explosion. The steps are as follows:
* **1. Acknowledge and Verify Alarm:** Immediately acknowledge the alarm on the engine room alarm panel and confirm it is indeed the crankcase oil mist detector. Note the specific unit or zone indicated by the alarm.
Full answer on MeoMock — surveyor-grade reference answers for 7,000+ written exam questions.
Prepare on Android — MeoMock on Google Play