Chapter 4 Engineering Operations

CHAPTER 4 ENGINEERING OPERATIONS When you have read and understood this chapter, you should be able to answer the following learning objectives. . Describe the scope of engineering operations. l . Explain the use of engineering performance standards. l l Explain the purpose of engineering readiness l trials and inspections. Define the function of the Propulsion Examining Board. Define the function of the Board of Inspection and Survey. Explain the use of the engineering operating programs; EOSS, EOP, and EOCC. The Chief of Naval Operation (CNO) establishes the standards of readiness and preparedness for war required of all U.S. Navy ships. The standards require that the ship’s organization, its material readiness, and the state of training be such that the ship performs its mission effectively and efficiently. Each type commander designates the trials, inspections, and exercises the ships under his command need to maintain readiness and meet standards. The type commanders also present Battle Efficiency awards as incentives toward greater efficiency through competition. These awards are earned for merit in readiness evaluation, competitive exercises, and day-to-day operations. The awards are presented according to OPNAVINST 3590.4 and usually are presented annually. CNO may authorize additional awards for type commands, and he may suspend awards during periods of national emergency. See the type commander’s directives for information concerning the Battle Efficiency requirements for a particular ship. Engineering readiness (including damage control) plays a major role in the battle efficiency of any ship. The following list shows the principal components of engineering readiness: l l l l Reliability Fuel performance Feedwater and freshwater performance Trial performance 4-1 . Ability to control damage and engineering casualties. This chapter provides detailed information on (1) sound engineering practices, both recommended and mandatory, (2) engineering trials and readiness inspections scheduled by the type commanders, and (3) material inspections and ship surveys conducted by the Board of Inspection and Survey (INSURV). This chapter deals mainly with steam propulsion plants, but parts of it also apply to diesel and gas turbine propulsion plants. SOUND ENGINEERING PRACTICES The engineer officer is responsible for sound engineering practices within the engineering department, and he informs the commanding officer of casualties and other events that affect the ship’s operations. Although the engineering officer is responsible overall, this chapter applies to all supervisory personnel in the engineering department who may be responsible for any of the duties described in the chapter. Those who apply sound engineering practices and follow operational directives will enjoy a safe, economical, efficient, and reliable plant. They’ll also need less time to maintain it in that condition. This chapter deals with a steam plant, but parts of it also apply to diesel and gas turbine propulsion plants.