Ways of starting and testing emergency generator

Emergency generator on ship provides power in case the main generators of the ship fails and creates a “dead or blackout condition”. According to general requirement, at least two modes of starting an emergency generator should be available. The two modes should be – battery start and hydraulic or pneumatic start.

The Port state control (PSC) might detain a ship or provide some time to correct any kind of deficiency found if the second mode of starting is not operating.

Testing of Emergency Generator

The testing of ship’s emergency generator is done every week (as part of weekly checks) by running it unloaded to check if it starts on battery mode. The hydraulic start is done every month to ensure that it is working fine. Also every month automatic start of generator is also done to check its automatic operation and to see whether it comes on load.

Procedure for Battery Start

1. Go to the emergency generator room and find the panel for emergency generator.
2. Put the switch on the test mode from automatic mode. The generator will start automatically but will not come on load.
3. Check voltage and frequency in the meter.
4. Keep the generator running for 10-15 min and check the exhaust temp and other parameters.
5. Check the sump level.
6. For stopping the generator, put the switch in manual and then stop the generator.

Procedure for Hydraulic Start

1. Out the switch in manual mode as stated above and check the pressure gauge for sufficient oil pressure.
2. Open the valve from accumulator to generator.
3. Push the spring loaded valve and the generator should start.
4. Check voltage and frequency.
5. Keep the generator running for 10-15 min and check the exhaust temp and other parameters.
6. Check the sump level
7. For stopping, use the manual stop button from the panel.
8. After stopping the generator, pressurize the hydraulic accumulator to desired pressure.
9. Close the valve from accumulator to generator.

Procedure for Automatic Start

1. For automatic start, we know that there is a breaker which connects Emergency Switch Board (ESB) and Main Switch Board (MSB); and there is also an interlock provided due to which the emergency generator and Main power of the ship cannot be supplied together.
2. Therefore, we simulate by opening the breaker from the tie line, which can be done from the MSB or the ESB panel.
3. After opening the breaker, the emergency generator starts automatically with the help of batteries and will supply essential power to machinery and pumps connected to ESB.
4. For stopping the generator, the breaker is closed again and due to the interlock the generator becomes off load.
5. Now again put the switch to manual mode to stop the generator.
6. Press stop and the generator will stop.

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