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Dhiraj ETO Oral Question Set

The document contains questions and answers related to electrical systems on ships. It discusses lifeboat starter circuits, logic gates in generators, autopilot systems, definitions of air gap and clearance in generators, causes of different amperage when generators run in parallel, IP ratings, components like IGBTs, soft starters, Ex rated enclosures and their uses, PLC features and fault finding, uses of optocouplers in PLCs, reactive power, and paralleling faults.

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100% found this document useful (2 votes)
1K views

Dhiraj ETO Oral Question Set

The document contains questions and answers related to electrical systems on ships. It discusses lifeboat starter circuits, logic gates in generators, autopilot systems, definitions of air gap and clearance in generators, causes of different amperage when generators run in parallel, IP ratings, components like IGBTs, soft starters, Ex rated enclosures and their uses, PLC features and fault finding, uses of optocouplers in PLCs, reactive power, and paralleling faults.

Uploaded by

Saro
Copyright
© © All Rights Reserved
We take content rights seriously. If you suspect this is your content, claim it here.
Available Formats
Download as DOCX, PDF, TXT or read online on Scribd
You are on page 1/ 108

ETO ORALS QUESTIONS AND ANSWERS

Q) Life boat starter ckt?


A) Life boat starter negative phase is body of engine through switch to axial starter

Q) Use of logic gates in generator?


A) LO pressure low trip, HT high trip, over speed are connected as OR gate logic.

Q) Auto pilot working?


A) Gyro heading used to steer ship.

Q) Why it is called air gap not clearance in the generator


A) Air Gap and Clearance are two different definitions. Air gap is an Electrical gap measured
only in case of Alternators/ motors because it’s actually not an empty gap but full of
magnetic field between Rotor and Stator. If the air gap is unequal the motor or Alternator
will not start. Clearance is only a distance between shaft and Rotor for a mechanical free
movement /rotation.

Q) If two generators running in parallel the kw are same but ampere is different. What could
be the reason?
A) Power factor differences. Adjust excitation

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ETO ORALS QUESTIONS AND ANSWERS

Q) IP rating?

IP 6 8

First Digit:
“Ingress
Solids Second Digit: Liquids Protection
Protection”
Protection

Object size
Level protected Effective against
against
0 Not protected No protection against contact and ingress of objects
Any large surface of the body, such as the back of the hand, but no
1 >50mm
protection against deliberate contact with a body part.
2 >12.5mm Fingers or similar objects.
3 >2.5mm Tools, thick wires, etc.
4 >1mm Most wires, screws, etc.
Ingress of dust is not entirely prevented, but it must not enter in
5 Dust Protected sufficient quantity to interfere with the satisfactory operation of the
equipment; complete protection against contact.
6 Dust Tight No ingress of dust; complete protection against contact.

Object size
Level protected Effective against
against
0 Not protected –
1 Dripping water (vertically falling drops) shall have no harmfull effect.
Dripping water

Dripping water Vertically dripping water shall have no harmful effect when the
2
when tilted up enclosure is tilted at an angle up to 15° from its normal position.
to 15°
Water falling as a spray at any angle up to 60° from the vertical shall
3 Spraying water
have no harmful effect.
Splashing Water splashing against the enclosure from any direction shall have no
4
water harmful effect.
Water projected by a nozzle (6.3mm) against enclosure from any
5 Water jets
direction shall have no harmful effects.
Powerful water Water projected in powerful jets (12.5mm nozzle) against the
6
jets enclosure from any direction shall have no harmful effects.
7 Immersion up Ingress of water in harmful quantity shall not be possible when the

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ETO ORALS QUESTIONS AND ANSWERS

Object size
Level protected Effective against
against
enclosure is immersed in water under defined conditions of pressure
to 1m
and time (up to 1 m of submersion).
The equipment is suitable for continuous immersion in water under
conditions which shall be specified by the manufacturer. Normally, this
Immersion
8 will mean that the equipment is hermetically sealed. However, with
beyond 1m
certain types of equipment, it can mean that water can enter but only
in such a manner that it produces no harmful effects.

Q) IGBT and
A) An insulated-gate bipolar transistor (IGBT) is a three-terminal power semiconductor
device primarily used as an electronic switch high efficiency and fast switching. The IGBT is
used in medium- to high-power

Insulated Gate Bipolar Transistor

Q) Soft starter
A) Soft starting method of supplying a gradually increasing a.c. voltage during start-up
generally refers to an efficient electronic switching technique. A basic method is to use back-
to-back connected thyristors or triacs in the supply lines which are "gated" to delay "turn-
on, within each a.c. half-cycle. This delayed switching applies a reduced average a.c. voltage
to the motor. The applied motor voltage is gradually ramped up by the starter software
program until the full voltage level is reached. To achieve maximum efficiency, the
electronic switching circuit can now be bypassed for normal running. A "soft" starter may be
further adapted to become a voltage controller over the motor operating load range. In this
type of efficient "energy manager" application, the controller monitors the motor power
factor which is a measure of the motor loading. On light load and full voltage, the power
factor is low so the controller reduces the motor voltage which reduces current while

DHIRAJ A. SAIJARE Page 3


ETO ORALS QUESTIONS AND ANSWERS

improving power factor and efficiency. Note, this type of "soft starter /energy manager" is
not a speed controller. To electrically change the speed of an induction motor it is necessary
to vary the applied frequency.

Q) Ex types and uses

Exd flameproof enclosure switch gear and transformer, lighting fixture


Exi intrinsic safetv actuators, sensors, profibus, dp, rs485
Exe increased safety terminal and terminal boxes
Exn non-sparking PLC
Exq powder filled Strip heater, capacitor
Exo oil immersed transformer and switching devices
Exp pressurisation control cabinet, switch gear
Exm encapsulation sensor and switching device

Q) Plc features and fault finding and


A )A PROGRAMMABLE LOGIC CONTROLLER (PLC) is an industrial computer control system
that continuously monitors the state of input devices and makes decisions based upon a
custom program to control the state of output devices. The main difference from other
computers is that PLCs are armoured for severe conditions 
Input Scan: Detects the state of all input devices that are connected to the PLC
Program Scan: Executes the user created program logic
Output Scan: Energizes or de-energize all output devices that are connected to the PLC
Housekeeping: This step includes communications with programming terminals,
internal diagnostics, etc.

Ladder Diagram (LD) Traditional ladder logic is graphical programming language. Initially
programmed with simple contacts that simulated the opening and closing of relays, Ladder
Logic programming has been expanded to include such functions as counters, timers, shift
registers, and math operations.

Q) Use of optocoupler in plc.


A)An Optocoupler, also known as an Opto-isolator or Photo-coupler, is an electronic
components that interconnects two separate electrical circuits by means of a light sensitive
optical interface.
The basic design of an optocoupler consists of an LED that produces infra-red light and a
semiconductor photo-sensitive device that is used to detect the emitted infra-red beam.
Both the LED and photo-sensitive device are enclosed in a light-tight body or package with
metal legs for the electrical connections.
An optocoupler or opto-isolator consists of a light emitter, the LED and a light sensitive
receiver which can be a single photo-diode, photo-transistor, photo-resistor, photo-SCR, or
a photo-TRIAC

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ETO ORALS QUESTIONS AND ANSWERS

Assume a photo-transistor device as shown. Current from the source signal passes through
the input LED which emits an infra-red light whose intensity is proportional to the electrical
signal.

This emitted light falls upon the base of the photo-transistor, causing it to switch-ON and
conduct in a similar way to a normal bipolar transistor.

Individual opto-couplers are required for isolating each sensor channel of plc. Opto-couplers
used for isolation. Safe interface between high-voltage components and low-voltage
devices.

Q) Reactive power
A) Reactive power exists in an AC circuit when the current and voltage are not in phase.
Capacitance, inductance, the reactive power regulates the voltage in the system. If the
reactive power is too low, inductive loads such as transformers will be unable to maintain
voltages necessary for the generation of electromagnetic fields, leading to a "voltage
collapse" that creates blackouts. Therefore reactive power is essential to move active power
through transmission and distribution systems to the customer. However if reactive power
in a system is too high, there is increased heat loss in transmission lines and loads as the
current flowing through the system is much higher, creating a potentially hazardous
breakdown situation. The power factor of a load tells us what fraction of the apparent
power is in the form of real power and performs actual work. A high power factor is
desirable since it minimizes the amount of reactive power needed by the load, reducing
heat losses and maximizing efficiency.

Q) Paralleling faults.
A) Parallel running is achieved in the two stages of Synchronising then Load Sharing
To achieve smooth manual synchronising, the incomer must be brought up to
speed to obtain approximately the same frequency as shown on the bus-bar
frequency meter e.g. 60 Hz.
The incoming generator voltage is set by its AVR or manually trimmed (if available) to be
equal to the bus-bar voltage.

DHIRAJ A. SAIJARE Page 5


ETO ORALS QUESTIONS AND ANSWERS

Q) Switch board safety


1. Main Switch Board or MSB to be installed on a raised platform.
2. The location where Switch Board or MSB is installed should have good ventilation,
illumination and affected by minimum vibration.
3. No water or oil pipes should pass above the Switch Board or MSB.
4. There should be adequate space around allowing comfortable operation and
maintenance.
5. The operating floor space in front and behind the Switch Board or MSB should be
covered with anti skid, insulated rubber mats with a minimum thickness of 15 mm.
6. Panel doors should be in locked position.
7. Door opening mechanism should be interlocked with power supply.
8. The enclosure should be drip proof.
9. MSB should be dead front type. (i.e. All the live conductor should pass behind MSB)
10. Every equipment onboard must be properly earthed. Also MSB must be properly
earthed.
11. Every incoming and outgoing feed must be protected by a switch fuse or circuit breaker.
12. Insulation resistance should not be less than 1 Mega Ohm in any case. Insulation
Resistance (IR) to be checked and records are maintained.
13. All meters must be calibrated periodically and records are maintained.
14. All the meters, switches, fuses, push button, indicating lamps, etc. should be in working
condition and identified with individual name plate or tag.
15. All the interlocks must be in working condition.
16. Operating switch gear, tools such as circuit breaker handle, fuse puller, lamp grip, etc.
must be readily available and to be used.
17. Red tag / name plate indicating high voltage and danger sign should be fitted
18. Appropriate ready to use fire extinguishers should be positioned nearby. (CO 2and DCP)
19. Charts indicating drill procedures in case of electric shocks must be displayed near MSB.
20. Wiring diagram laminated or framed indicating supply system must be displayed nearby.
21. All the appropriate spares should be properly preserved and protected, individually
packed and identified, and should be readily available for use.
22. Earth fault indication should be fitted and displayed in front panel.
23. 24 volt battery supply emergency light should be provided near MSB.

Q) Breaker safety
A) Protection relays are used to monitor over current, over/under voltage, over/under
frequency, earth leakage, unbalanced loading, over-temperature, reverse power (for
generators) etc.
Circuit breakers: A circuit breaker is an auto shut down device which activates during an
abnormality in the electrical circuit. Especially during overloading or short circuit, the circuit
breaker opens the faulty circuit from MSB and thus protects the MSB.
Fuses: Fuses are mainly used for short circuit protection and comes in various ratings. If the
current passing through the circuit exceeds the safe value, the fuse material melts and
isolates the MSB from the default system. Normally fuses are used with 1.5 times of full load
current.

DHIRAJ A. SAIJARE Page 6


ETO ORALS QUESTIONS AND ANSWERS

Over current relay: OCR is used mainly on the local panel and MSB for protection from high
current. They are installed where a low power signal is a controller. Normally relays are set
equivalent to full load current with time delay.
Under voltage protection: An under voltage (U/V) release mechanism is fitted to all
generator breakers and some main feeder circuit-breakers. Its main function is to trip the
breaker when a severe voltage dip (around 50 %) occurs.

Q) Skin effect
A) The tendency of a high-frequency alternating current to flow through only the outer layer
of a conductor. Skin effect is the tendency of an alternating electric current (AC) to become
distributed within a conductor such that the current density is largest near the surface of
the conductor, and decreases with greater depths in the conductor. The electric current
flows mainly at the "skin" of the conductor, between the outer surface and a level called the
skin depth.

Q) Finding ways to connect 6 wires of unmarked cable's of three phase induction motor.
A) We assume this is a 6 leads out untagged. First we will get the continuity of each leads by
using a multimeter. Assuming we have done the continuity test, by then we can get three
pairs with continuity. First we marked the first pair as U1 & U2 as our reference, leaving the
two pairs untagged. We then get one pair of the untagged and connect one end to U2. We
will supply U1 & U2 with a voltage lower than the rated voltage of the motor,
ex. if the rated voltage of the motor is 440V then we will supply it with 220V or lower. We
now measure the voltage from U1 and the other end of the untagged pair not connected to
U2. If the voltage is more than the supply voltage then the phase is right if not reverse the
connection then put
marking V1 & V2. Do this procedure for the remaining untagged pair. Assuming we already
done our phasing we test run the motor with a lower voltage again to avoid burning the
motor and measure if the currents in each phase are the same.
A)First of all you separate all the wires and then you do this...
You first find the winding ends using a continuity meter marking each winding end as "A"
"AA", "B", "BB", "C" , "CC". use a 6 volt battery and a centre zero galvanometer, connect the
galvanometer to one pair and noting which ends are connected to the + and - of the meter,
mark the winding ends as you have connected them to the meter.
Connect one of the other winding ends to one terminal of the battery and just touch the
other end to the other terminal of the battery and note which way the needle of the meter
moves, either to the left of the right, repeat until all the windings are done and with each
test the meter needle moves in the same direction. This is called a "flick test" and if you
leave the battery connected to the winding the meter will not move hence you only quickly
touch the battery terminal with the winding end.

DHIRAJ A. SAIJARE Page 7


ETO ORALS QUESTIONS AND ANSWERS

You now have found the correct polarity of all three windings, so you should have three
ends with a +, and three with -. Make your star point from the three + ends and connect the
other three ends to your supply.
Or if you need a delta configuration, you connect "+" to "-",until you have a loop and
connect your power supply to the three junctions

Q) Boiler water level control.

Boiler Level Control

A regulated supply of water must exist for a boiler generating steam. With the system in
balance without leaks the flow of water to the boiler will be equal to the flow of steam.
When there is a change in steam demand then the flow of water will have to be changed.

One Element

The water level is measured using a suitable device. This level is sent to the controller as a
measured value. The controller compares this measured value against a set point. Any
deviation from this set point caused a demand signal to be generated.

Two Elements

A single element controller is considered suitable for only the smallest of boilers. The reason
for this is the effect of stepped load changes

Should there be a sudden demand for increase steam flow there will be a requirement to
increase the firing rate. The increased firing rate increases the ebullition or bubble
formation in the water and the volume of water increases or swells. This will be seen as an
immediate increase in the water level.

For a single term controller the tendency will be to close the feed supply valve. However,
the increased firing rate will generate more steam flow from the boiler and in reality an
increase in water flow would be required

For a stepped load increase there will be tendency for the water level to rise due to swell as
described. The Water level controller will give a reduced demand signal. The steam flow
transmitter will detect an increase in steam flow and send an increase demand signal via a
conditioner which adjusts this signal to suit the system. These two signals pass through a
Summator. The resultant effect will prevent any immediate sharp change in the demand
signal to the feed flow control valve.

Three Element

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ETO ORALS QUESTIONS AND ANSWERS

Variations in feed pressure will vary the true feedflow rate to valve demand signal. For
improved control an additional feed water flow element may be added. This is the case only
when the cost and complexity can be justified due to improved plant efficiency and critical
water level control.

Q) Earth fault detection in 220 v panel without lamp method or megger.


Check the trueness of the alarm.
Isolate the complete Group start panel for a lighting division one by one.
Check the Earth Fault indicator for status (still faulty or normal).
If faulty, then put on the breaker which is put off earlier and isolate other group start panel
for lighting circuit.
Once the group start panel is identified, then individual lighting switches are turned off one
by one and checked for the alarm condition.
When any switch when turned off and thus the condition becomes normal, then this lighting
circuit is marked and then inspection is done on the particular light for abnormalities.

Instead of turning off breakers one by one for the lighting circuit, I followed a method where
I turned off all lighting circuit of a particular doubted area. This method helps usually when
there are two or more earth faults in 220V lighting circuit. By turning off all the breakers of a
particular area, then switching on the breaker one by one will eliminate multiple earth
faults.

When I turned off lighting switches one by one, it was difficult for me to identify multiple
earth faults.

Q) Generator connection is starting or delta? Why star connected


 It is very important for an alternator to have a neutral point. This neutral point is to be
grounded through a resistor, for stability purposes. The neutral allows a path for
circulating currents under unbalanced loaded conditions, and also during faults. If there
was no path for the flow of fault current, and a line to ground fault occurs in one of the
three phases, there would be a rise in voltages in the other two healthy phases and
eventually, it would cause insulation failure in the other two phases and the line to
ground fault would lead to a 3 phase fault. A neutral point would avoid all this and limit
the fault condition to one phase only.
 In star connection, line V= root 3 of phase Voltage. Since the induced emf in the phase
winding of an alternator is directly proportional to the number of turns, a star connected
alternator will require lesser number of turns than a delta connected alternator for the
same line voltage.

DHIRAJ A. SAIJARE Page 9


ETO ORALS QUESTIONS AND ANSWERS

 In star connection, if the neutral is grounded then it also provides a path for the Zero-
Sequence currents during faults, whereas in the delta connection the zero sequence
currents flow within the delta circuit and hence increasing load on the winding.

Q) Rotor wound induction motor schematic diagram?


A) A crude form of speed control is provided by the wound rotor induction motor. The rotor
has a 3-phase winding (similar to its stator winding) which is connected to 3 slip rings
mounted on the shaft. An external 3-phase resistor bank is connected to brushes on the
rotor slip rings. During motor start up a set of contactors or a slide wiper (for small motors)
varies the amount of resistance added to the rotor circuit. Increasing the value of external
resistance decreases the rotor speed. This has the benefits of reducing the starting current
surge while providing a high starting torque. The wound-rotor arrangement is more
expensive than an equivalent cage-rotor machine. It requires more maintenance on account
of the slip rings and the external resistor bank which may require special cooling facilities.

Q) Trips on diesel engine?


A) Trips:
 Lube oil pressure trip, 
 Cam shaft and governor oil low pressure trip, 
 Over speed trip, 
 piston cooling oil high temp trip,(& non flow)
 Turbocharger cooling water high temp Trip, 
 Turbocharger lube oil low pressure trip, 
 Control air Low trip,
 Expansion tank low level alarm
 Control air is also used for stopping the engine
 Thrust bearing high temp trip
 Jacket cooling water high temp alarm
 High exhaust alarm,
 High scavenge air temp alarm and slow down,
 Oil Mist Detector alarm and slow down crankcase relief valve
 Thrust bearing high temp alarm
 Axial vibration

Alarms:

 Cooling water High temperature alarm,


 Jacket cooling water low pressure alarm,
 Air cooler high temperature alarm,
 Fuel oil high temp,
 Fuel oil Low pressure

Q) Draw schematic diagram of synchronoscope motor


This is a three phase motor that produces a magnetic field rotating at a speed of
DHIRAJ A. SAIJARE Page 10
ETO ORALS QUESTIONS AND ANSWERS

N= f/p (rev/s) just like the induction motor type. The rotor has a set of magnetic poles with
d.c. excitation which locks in synchronism with the stator rotating flux. This means that the
shaft is always running at the synchronous speed set by the supply frequency. To start the
motor from standstill can be a problem - it is either:
Pulsed forward at a very low frequency with the rotor poles excited,
or
Dragged up to slip speed as an induction motor with an embedded cage rotor then locked
into synchronism by energising the d.c. rotor field.
For normal running, the operating power factor of a synchronous motor can be
lagging or leading as this is determined by the size of the d.c. excitation field current.

Q) Why does motor takes high current at starting


A) In ac induction motor it takes starting current around 7 times the full load current. The
reason is during starting when we applied a voltage to stator it produce a rotating magnetic
field which is rotating with its synchronous speed. The rotor speed is zero and slip is 100%
so a large amount of magnetic field cuts the rotor surface and produce heavy current to
flow from its and when the rotor catch its speed the amount of field cutting the rotor reduce
and slip is also low and current become normal.

Q) How voltage is generated in alternator


A) Electricity is produced in alternators by electromagnetic induction.
Rotor and Armature coils are the 2 main parts of an alternator. Rotor produces a rotating
magnetic field. Armature coils are stationary and rotating magnetic flux associated with the
rotor induces electricity in the armature coils.

Q) Static discharge & effects on tanker,


A) Electrostatic discharge (ESD) is the sudden flow of electricity between two electrically
charged objects caused by contact. ESD occurs when two different materials rub together.
One of the materials becomes positively charged; the other becomes negatively charged.
The positively-charged material now has an electrostatic charge. When that charge comes
into contact with the right material, it is transferred and we have an Electrostatic discharge

Tankers
The flow of liquids ,  the ejection of steam from a nozzle , the splashing or agitation of a
liquid against a solid surface, the vigorous rubbing together of certain synthetic polymers
(e.g. the sliding of a polypropylene rope through PVC gloved hands). Working tools

Between sampling apparatus lowered into a tank and the surface of charged petroleum
liquid.    Between unearthed equipment suspended in a tank and the adjacent tank
structure  

The most important countermeasure that must be taken to prevent an electrostatic hazard
is to bond all metal objects together. Bonding eliminates the risk of discharges between
metal objects, To avoid discharges from conductors to earth, it is normal practice to earth

DHIRAJ A. SAIJARE Page 11


ETO ORALS QUESTIONS AND ANSWERS

( grounding). On ships, bonding to earth is effectively accomplished by connecting metallic


objects to the metal structure of the ship, which is naturally earthed through the sea.

Q. Function of AVR
A) AVR- automatic voltage regulator
AVR regulates the voltage of a generator.
When voltage drops, due to load increase, The AVR senses the generator output Voltage
and acts to alter the field current to maintain the voltage at its set value.
An AVR will control the generator's voltage to +-2.5% (or better) of its set value over the full
load range. Transient voltage dip is usually limited to 15% for a specified sudden load
change with recovery back to rated voltage within 1.5 seconds.

Q) Synchronization procedure & synchroscope drawing


A) The generator already on-the-bars is called the running machine and the generator to be
brought into service is the incoming machine.
For smoothly parallel the incoming generator, it must be synchronised with the live bus-
bars. Incoming must brought up to speed to obtain approximately the same frequency as
shown on the bus-bar frequency meter e.g. 60 Hz.
The incoming generator voltage is set by its AVR or manually trimmed (if available) to be
equal to the bus-bar voltage.
he incomer is adjusted so that the synchroscope indicator rotates slowly clockwise (fast
direction) at about 4 seconds per indicator revolution. Whether the incoming machine is
running fast (clockwise) or slow (anti-clockwise). The circuit-breaker should be closed as the
indicator approaches the 12 o'clock (in-phase) position. Breaker closing between 5-to and 5-
past the 12 o'clock synchroscope position is satisfactory as long as the pointer rotation is
fairly.
Three lamp method
In each case the lamps are connected between the incoming generator and the bus-bars.
The sequence method, is preferred as it displays a rotation of lamp brightness which
indicates whether the incoming machine is running fast (clockwise) or slow (anti-clockwise).
As with the synchroscope, the lamp sequence must appear to rotate slowly clockwise.
Correct synchronisation occurs when the top or key lamp is dark and the two bottom lamps
are equally bright.

Connect a voltmeter (expect up to 500 V on a 440 V system) across one pole of the open
incoming generator circuit breaker. This procedure is more easily (and safely) performed at
the synchroscope terminals behind the door of the synchronising panel at the front of the
main switchboard. Check the circuit diagrams before such testing. Adjust the generator
speed until the voltmeter very slowly fluctuates from zero to maximum. Close the breaker
when the voltmeter indication passes through zero. Note, for this operation, an analogue
(pointer and scale) meter is easier to follow than digital type.
Auto-synchronising of an incoming generator does everything an operator would do - senses
and controls the voltage and frequency then initiates a circuit-breaker close signal at the
correct instant. The auto-synchronising equipment uses electronic circuits to monitor the

DHIRAJ A. SAIJARE Page 12


ETO ORALS QUESTIONS AND ANSWERS

size of voltage, frequency and phase angle difference, and then acts to regulate them until
they are equal to the existing
bus-bar conditions.

Q) Acb safeties & settings


A) Protection relays are used to monitor, over current, over/under voltage, over/under
frequency, earth leakage, unbalanced loading, over-temperature, reverse power (for
generators) etc.
Over current= full load current.
Fuse protection=short circuit fault (2-3 times FLC)
Under voltage= voltage dip around 50%
Reverse power = 5-15 %( diesel prime mover), 2-3 % turbine time delay 0.5-3 sec
The Over Current Inverse Time I>:0.7-2. In, ( In : normal rated generator current) and t: 1-
10s

Over current (instantaneous) I > : 2-10.In, and t: 0.1-1s


Negative Phase Sequence ( unbalance) current setting is low at around 0.2.In.
Differential Current settings about 0.1.In.
Earth Leakage current setting 1-5A with a time delay of 0.1-0.5 s.
0.8.Un and 1.2.Un respectively (Un : rated voltage)
Under and Over Frequency settings are typically 58 Hz and 62 Hz for a 60 Hz

Q) Navigation lights requirement, regulation, angle, safeties during bulb changing on main
mast.
International Maritime Organization (IMO) in their "International Regulations for Preventing
Collisions at Sea" to have five specially designed navigation running lights referred to as
 Foremast, Mainmast, Port, Starboard and Stern.
 Two anchor lights, fitted forward and aft.
 The side lights are red for Port and green for Starboard while the other lights are white.
 For vessels length more than 50 metres, the masthead light(s) must be visible from a
range of six nautical miles and the other navigation lights from three nautical miles.
 Typical power rating of 65 W but 60 W and 40 W.
 Two lamps and lamp holders within a special dual fitting.
 Each light is separately supplied, switched, fused and monitored from a Navigation Light
Panel in the wheelhouse.
 The electric power is provided usually at 220 V a.c. with a main and An alternative
standby power supply is fed from the emergency switchboard.
 A changeover switch on the Navigation Light Panel selects the main or standby power
supply.
 The Navigation Light Panel has indicator lamps and an audible alarm to warn of any lamp
or lamp-circuit failure.
 Each lamp circuit has an alarm relay which monitors the lamp current. Various signal
lights with red green, white and blue colours are arranged on the signal mast.

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ETO ORALS QUESTIONS AND ANSWERS

 These lights are switched to give particular combinations to signal states relating to
various international and national regulations. Pilot age requirements, health, dangerous
cargo conditions, etc., are signalled with these lights.
 White Morse-Code flashing lights may also be fitted on the signal mast
 The NUC (Not under Command) state is two all-round red lights vertically mounted at
least 2 m apart. Such important lights are fed from the 24V d.c. emergency supply.

 Sidelights are red (port) and green (starboard) and shine from dead ahead to 112.5° aft
on either side.
 Stern lights are white and shine aft and 67.5° forward on each side. (Thus, the sidelights
and stern light create a full circle of light.)
 All-round lights are white and shine through 360°.
 Masthead lights are white and shine from 112.5° on the port side through dead ahead to
112.5° on the starboard side. They must be above the sidelights.

Q) Safeties during bulb changing on main mast


 Aloft area permit.
 Whether stable, sea calm, no wind, no rolling or pitching.
 Safety harness.
 Standby person.
 Radar off and air horn off, air drain.
 Inform duty officer, notice men at work.

Q) Gates: And & Not, truth table


A) AND: A HIGH output (1) results only if both the inputs to the AND gate are HIGH (1).

 OR: A HIGH output (1) results if one or both the inputs to the gate are HIGH (1). If
neither input is high, a LOW output (0) results.

 A NOT gate (also often called Inverter) is a logic gate.

 NAND gate (negative-AND) is a logic gate which produces an output is false only if all its
inputs are true; thus its output is complement to that of the AND gate.

 The NOR gate. A HIGH output (1) results if both the inputs to the gate are LOW (0); if
one or both input is HIGH (1), a LOW output (0) results. NOR is the result of the negation
of the OR .

Q) Thermocouple & RTD sensor

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ETO ORALS QUESTIONS AND ANSWERS

A) A thermoelectric device for measuring temperature, consisting of two wires of different


metals connected at two points, a voltage being developed between the two junctions in
proportion to the temperature difference.

RTD
 Resistance temperature detectors (RTDs), are sensors used to measure temperature.
The RTD wire is a pure material, typically platinum, nickel, or copper. The material has
an accurate resistance/temperature relationship which is used to provide an indication
of temperature. As RTD elements are fragile, they are often housed in protective probes

Q) Level sensor

 Float Sensor
 Capacitance Sensors
 Conductivity Probes

Float sensor
A liquid level control system by using a float sensor works on the principle of buoyancy,

Capacitance
The principle of capacitive level measurement is based on the change of capacitance. There
are two plates in capacitive sensor: one plate acts as an insulated electrode and the other

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ETO ORALS QUESTIONS AND ANSWERS

plate acts as a tank wall. The capacitance depends on the liquid level. An empty tank has
low capacitance while a filled tank has higher capacitance.

Conductivity
This system is applicable for level measurement in conductive liquids. The conductivity of
the insulated material can be varied if the probe is covered or not covered within the
conductive product. There are two electrodes: one is used as a metal wall of the tank, and
the other electrode is inserted into the tank. This principle can be explained with a practical
application.
A Conductive probe is used as a liquid level indicator for measuring the level of electrically
conductive products in a metal water tank, or other container, which can be obtained by
means of a probe isolated from the container and a conductivity amplifier. When the
product is not in connection with the probe, the electrical resistance is relatively high or
infinite between the probe and the metal tank wall. If the level of the liquid rises completely
between the probe and the tank wall, then the resistance gradually decreases.

Q) Boiler fully automation with PLC, how FD fan dumper control

Starting sequence

1. Ensure that the vent valve on the boiler is open and check there is no pressure in the
boiler.
2. Check that the steam stop valve is closed.
3.  Check that all the valves for fuel are open, and let the fuel circulate through the system
until it comes to the temperature required by the manufacturer recommendation.
4. Check and open the feed water valves to the boiler and fill the water inside the boiler
drum to just above the low water level. This is done because it is not possible to start
the boiler below the low water level due to safety feature which prevent boiler from
starting. Also, the level is not filled much because if filled too much, the water inside the
boiler might expand and over pressurize the boiler.
5. Start the boiler in automatic mode. The burner fan will start the purging cycle which will
remove any gases present in the furnace by forcing it out through the funnel.
6. After the pre-set purge time the pilot burner will ignite. The pilot burner consists of two
electrodes, through which a large current is passed, via the transformer, producing the
spark between the electrodes. The pilot burner is supplied with diesel oil and when the
oil passes over, the former ignites.
7. The main burner which is supplied by heavy oil catches fire with the help of pilot burner.
8. Check the combustion chamber from the sight glass to ensure the burner has lit and the
flame is satisfactory.
9. Keep a close eye on the water level as the pressure increases and open the feed water
when the level of water inside the gauge glass is stable.
10. Close the vent valve after the steam starts coming outside.
11. Open the steam stop valve.
12. Once the working steam pressure is reached, blow down the gauge glass and float
chambers to check for the alarms.

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ETO ORALS QUESTIONS AND ANSWERS

Stopping a boiler

1. If the boiler is needed to be stopped for longer duration for maintenance or opened
up for survey, change the fuel to distillate fuel.
2. If separate heating arrangement for heavy oil is present then there’s is no need to
change over to distillate fuel and the oil is kept on circulation mode.
3. Stop the boiler automatic cycle.
4. Close the steam stop valves.
5. Close the boiler feed water valves.
6. When the boiler pressure is just reduced to over atmospheric pressure the vent
valve is kept open to prevent vacuum formation inside the boiler.

Q) Shaft grounding purpose?


A) To ensure that the rudder, propeller screw and stabiliser fins receive the same degree of
cathodic protection as the hull it is necessary to electrically earth-bond these items to the
hull. The rudder stock may be bonded by a wire braid linking the top of the stock to the deck
head directly above it. Carbon brushes rubbing on the rotating main propulsion shaft
effectively bond the shaft to the hull.
A periodic inspection of such earthing is worthwhile as the brushes wear away and may
occasionally stick in their brush holders.
The electrical potential between shaft and hull can also cause a heavy current to flow in
bearings when the oil film breaks down or is contaminated with seawater. This current can
cause deep pitting of the bearing surface. Trouble can be avoided and cathodic protection
extended to the propeller if the shaft is properly earthed with a shaft earthing system.

Q) How pid controller is working in autopilot.  What is integral action in it?


A) The Autopilot is basically used when a ship has to steer a set course for a long time
without alteration because any deviation from the set course is controlled electronically and
automatically.

3 Types of controls:

a) —PROPORTIONAL CONTROL —The effect on steering when only proportional control is


applied causes the rudder to move by an amount proportional to the off-course error from
the course to steer and the ship will oscillate on either side of the required course-line.

b) DERIVATIVE CONTROL—The rudder is shifted by an amount proportional to the rate of


change of ship’s deviation from the course. The ship will make good a course which is
parallel to the required course and will continue to do so until the autopilot is again caused
to operate by external force acting on the ship.

c)—INTEGRAL CONTROL-—There are certain errors due to design parameters of the vessel
which have to be corrected. Data signals are produced by continuously sensing heading
error over a period of time and applying an appropriate degree of permanent helm is used

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for this purpose. The permanent helm acts as mid-ship.—The output of these three controls
is combined and the net resultant drives the rudder. This type of autopilot is also called as
PID Auto Pilot.

The output from a gyro or magnetic compass is coupled to the comparator, in the control
unit , along with the input signal from manual course setting control. Any difference
between the two signals causes an output error signal whose magnitude is proportional to
the difference between the two signals and hence the comparator is also referred to as
proportional control. In addition to the proportional control, the control unit also consists of
derivative and integral controls which analyse the signals from the gyro or magnetic
compass and the course selector

—A summing amplifier is used to obtain a resultant error signal from these controls. This
error signal is fed to the error amplifier which also gets feedback signals from the rudder,
consisting of the rudder position and its movement. The output of this error amplifier is fed
via telemotors to the steering gear unit and in turn operates the rudder. The telemotor has
two units, i.e. Transmitter and Receiver situated on the bridge and steering gear
compartment respectively. There will be no output from the control unit when the
difference between the two signals is zero and hence no movement of the rudder results.

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ETO ORALS QUESTIONS AND ANSWERS

Q) There is electronic governor and pid controller and diesel engine. 


A) Diagram of electric generator is given below

Most reliable and accurate governor is electric governor. It


consists of rectifier, controllers, and Amplifiers. Now the thing is that an
alternator is fitted on the cam shaft of the engine. Due to revolving motion of
cam shaft a certain amount of Alternating current is developed. This
Alternating current is fed to the rectifiers that convert this current in to
Direct Current. A controlling and amplifying unit is there which senses this
signal and matches it with the set value of the engine RPM. It generates signal
as per the need like whether to increases the fuel supply or decrease the fuel
supply. The output of this control unit is feed in to a High speed alternator
which controls the fuel valve.

Q) Intrinsically safe meaning


A) Intrinsic safety (IS) is a protection technique for safe operation of electrical equipment in
hazardous areas by limiting the energy,
this means limiting the voltage to less than 30 V and current to 50mA. In the hazardous area
when faults occur on the circuit.

Exia- the highest category based on a safety factor of 1.5 with two faults on the circuit

Exib- based on a safety factor of 1.5 with one fault on the circuit.

A safety (or zener) barrier comprises:


A fuse to limit the maximum current through the shunt (zener) diodes.
A set of resistors to limit the maximum current into the hazardous area.
A set of shunt connected zener diodes to limit the maximum voltage appearing on the
circuit within the hazardous area.

Zener diodes are a special kind of diode which permits current to flow in the forward
direction. Zener diodes will also allow current to flow in the reverse direction when the
voltage is above a certain value. This breakdown voltage is known as the Zener voltage.

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ETO ORALS QUESTIONS AND ANSWERS

Q) Safe level of LEL for entry?


A) Flammable atmospheres with a concentration of flammable vapors at or above 10
percent of the lower explosive limit (LEL) are considered hazardous when located in
confined spaces.

Q) Enclosed space entry at % and ppm alarm


A) Gas Ceiling TWA STEL
CO 35 ppm 35 ppm 100 ppm
H2S 10 ppm 10 ppm 15 ppm
SO2 2 ppm 2 ppm 5 ppm
O2
Low: 19.5%
High: 23.5%
LEL 10% LEL

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ETO ORALS QUESTIONS AND ANSWERS

Q) How u will use tank scope and where? When I said for inert condition, how will u come to
know it is inert?
A) Tankscope or non-combustible gas indicators, Combustible Gas Indicators or
Explosimeters

Q) Next how will u check oxygen meter is working correctly, what checks?
A) The main property of oxygen which helps in its detection and measurement of its
percentage in the given sample of air is that of Para-magnetism. Basically this means that
oxygen gets attracted towards a magnetic field.
There are two platinum resistance wires which are exposed to two different chambers. In
the first chamber there is the air in which the oxygen content needs to be monitored plus
there is an artificially created magnetic field, while the second chamber there is the same air
but there is no magnetic field present in this chamber. The wires form a part of the
Wheatstone bridge circuit and the Wheatstone bridge is used to measure an unknown
resistance by obtaining a balance between two legs of the circuit.
The air whose content has to be noted is supplied at one end and is filtered by passing it
through a diffuser and goes on to the two chambers. Hence while one chamber of the meter
attracts oxygen the reference chamber attracts only air. This causes a difference in the
temperature of the two wire sets because of the difference in thermal conductivity of
oxygen with respect to air. This causes imbalance in the resistance of the bridge legs and the
degree of this imbalance is in proportion to the oxygen content in the sample to be
measured.

Q) Two generators reading diff currents, what will u do?


A) Power factor
Alternators in parallel must always run at the same speed. After a machine has been paralleled and
is required to take up its share of the load, this will not be achieved by adjusting the field excitation
current. Although the increase in e.m.f. will cause a current to flow in the busbars, and this will show
on the machines ammeters, this is a reactive current that lags the e.m.f. by 90o and produces a
reactive (kVAr) but not kW. Its only effect is to alter the operating power factor of the alternator.

Q) Reverse power in detail?


A) Reverse power generally describes a condition where the prime mover of a generator is not
supplying sufficient torque to keep the generator rotor spinning at the same frequency as the bus
bar to which the generator is connected. In other words, the generator has actually become a motor
and is drawing current from the busbar to which is connected and is supplying torque to the prime
mover which is supposed to be supplying torque to the generator.

During synchronization, it might be possible to have the synchroscope rotating in the Slow
direction (anti-clockwise) and then close the breaker. Under this condition, the generator
would then be drawing a small amount of current from the busbar instead of supplying a
small amount of current to the busbar (which occurs when the breaker is closed with the
synchroscope rotates in the Fast (clockwise) direction).

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ETO ORALS QUESTIONS AND ANSWERS

Q) High voltage advantage and how u calculate fault current level,


Ships with very large electrical loads have generators operating at high voltages
(HV). high voltages are economically necessary in high power systems to reduce the size of
current, and hence reduce the size of conductors and protection device /equipment
required. high voltages is becoming more common as ship size and complexity increase.

To calculate the fault current in a system it is first necessary to calculate the MVA during a
fault. The MVA during a fault is given by

From this, the maximum current during the fault can be deduced as

I= P /(root 3 x V x 0.8)

Q) Polarisation index?
A) the polarisation index or P.I. The P.I. value is the ratio of the IR result after 10 minutes of
testing to the value recorded after one minute. For class F insulation materials the
recommended P.I. value is 2.0.

Q) What is dead time..?


A) Time in which someone or something is inactive or unable to act productively.
Dead time is the delay from when a controller output (CO) signal is issued until when the
measured process variable (PV) first begins to respond. The presence of dead time,Өp, is
never a good thing in a control loop.
Reasons:
The time it takes for material to travel from one point to another can add dead time to a
loop.
Sensors and analyzer can take precious time to yield their measurement results.

Q) What is fail safe?


A) Causing a piece of machinery to revert to a safe condition in the event of a breakdown or
malfunction.

A fail-safe is a device or practice that, in the event of a specific type of failure, responds or
results in a way that will cause no harm, or at least minimizes harm, to other devices or to
personnel.

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ETO ORALS QUESTIONS AND ANSWERS

Q) Thermal Runaway?
A) Thermal runaway is a situation where an increase in temperature changes the conditions
in a way that causes a further increase in temperature, often leading to a destructive result.
It is a kind of uncontrolled positive feedback.
In lithium-ion cells, thermal runaway can be triggered by internal short circuits, physical
damage, or overheating of the cell
In most battery packs, the individual cells are small and thermal runaway in a single cell can
be hazardous.  But the cells in a battery pack are typically in close proximity to one another,
and the big danger is if thermal runaway in one cell starts a chain reaction that spreads to
the surrounding cells.  This phenomenon, referred to as thermal runaway propagation, can
lead to serious fires or large explosions.

Q) How much voltage will be there between one phase & ground in isolated neutral system?
A) Vphase= Vline/root3

Q) Can we use Differential pressure switch with only one side pressure connection & where
r we using onboard?
A) differential pressure (“DP”, “d/p”, or _P)1 transmitter has two pressure ports to sense
different process fluid pressures. One of these ports is labeled “high” and the other is
labeled “low”. This labeling does not necessarily mean that the “high” port must always be
at a greater pressure than the “low” port. What these labels represent is the effect that a
pressure at that point will have on the output signal.
The most common sensing element used by modern DP transmitters is the diaphragm. One
side of this diaphragm receives process fluid pressure from the “high” port, while the other
receives process fluid pressure from the “low” port. Any difference of pressure between the
two ports causes the diaphragm to flex from its normal resting (center) position. This flexing
is then translated into an output signal by any number of different technologies,

The concept of differential pressure instrument port labeling is very similar to the
“inverting” and “non-inverting” labels applied to operational amplifier input terminals:

The “+” and “-” symbols do not imply polarity of the input voltage(s). These symbols merely
represent the different effects on the output signal that each input has. An increasing
voltage applied to the “+” input drives the op-amp’s output positive, while an increasing
voltage applied to the “-” input drives the op-amp’s output negative.

In a similar manner, an increasing pressure applied to the “high” port of a DP transmitter


will drive the output signal to a greater level (up), while an increasing pressure applied to
the “low” port of a DP transmitter will drive the output signal to a lesser level (down)

DP instruments may also serve as simple gauge pressure instruments if needed, responding
to pressures in excess of atmosphere. If we simply connect the “high” side of a DP
instrument to a process vessel using an impulse tube, while leaving the “low” side vented to
atmosphere, the instrument will interpret any positive pressure in the vessel as a positive
difference between the vessel and atmosphere:

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ETO ORALS QUESTIONS AND ANSWERS

The same principle of connecting one port of a DP device to a process and venting the other
works well as a means of measuring vacuum (pressures below that of atmosphere). All we
need to do is connect the “low” side to the vacuum process and vent the “high” side to
atmosphere:

Q) vfd uses relationship with torque...?


A) A synchroconverter, has controlled rectifier and inverter stages which both rely on
natural turn-off (line commutation) for the thyristors by the three phase a.c. voltages at
either end of the converter. Between the rectification and inversion stages is a current-
smoothing reactor coil forming the d.c. link.
The combination of controlled rectifier and d.c. link is considered to be a current source for
the inverter whose task is then to sequentially direct blocks of the current into the motor
windings
the size of the d.c. current is set bv the controlled switching of the rectifier thyristors. Motor
supply frequency (and hence its speed) is set by the rate of inverter switching. The six
inverter thyristors provide six current pulses per cycle (known as a six-pulse converter).

A simplified understanding of synchroconverter control is that the current source


(controlled rectification stage) provides the required motor torque and the inverter stage
controls the required speed.

Q) Auto tr. Which contactor is making first?


A) Reduced voltage starting will limit the starting surge current. One way to reduce the
initial voltage supplied to the motor is to step it down using a transformer. Then, when the
motor has accelerated up to almost full speed, the reduced voltage is replaced by the
full mains voltage.
It is an autotransformer which uses only one winding for both input and output.
the supply voltage is connected across the complete winding and the motor is connected to
the reduced voltage tapping. A number of tappings are usually available on the transformer
winding, giving voltage outputs ranging from about 50% to 80% of the mains supply voltage.
e.g. a 60% tap on an autotransformer supplied at 440 V would provide a voltage output of.
60% of 440= 264 V. The autotransformer usuallv has a few tapping points to give i set of
reduced voltages (e.g. 40"/", 50o/o and 65"/") which help to match the motor current
demand to the supply capability.
As with the star-delta starter, the autotransformer may use what is called an open-
transition switching sequence or a closed-transition switching sequence between the start
and run conditions. In open transition, the reduced voltage is supplied to the motor at start
then disconnected and the full supply voltage rapidly reconnected to the motor.
The problem with open-transitioins that a very large surge current can flow after the
transition from reduced to full voltage

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ETO ORALS QUESTIONS AND ANSWERS

Q) Armature reactions in alternator?


A) As the load is connected with armature terminals, there is a current flowing in the
armature coil. As soon as current starts flowing through the armature conductor there is
one reverse effect of this current on the main field flux of the alternator (or synchronous
generator). This reverse effect is referred as armature reaction in alternator or synchronous
generator. In other words the effect of armature (stator) flux on the flux produced by the
rotor field poles is called armature reaction.

Q) Why stator air gap of a alternator is more than that of exciter air gap?
A) An increase in air gap increases the reactance of the motor and lowers its power factor.
In synchronous and d-c machines, two separate fields interact in the air gap. The a-c field
created by the armature (stationary in the synchronous machine, rotating in the d-c
machine) distorts that supplied by the d-c field, reducing its effectiveness and degrading
machine performance. Increasing the air gap lessens the effect of that "armature reaction."
Hence, these machines will have air gaps several times larger than those in induction
motors.

Q) How rotating magnetic field is created?


A) When the 3-phase a.c. supply voltages are connected to the three stator phase windings,
the resulting phase currents produce a multi-pole magnetic flux. This flux is physically
rotated around the stator core by the switched sequence of the R-Y-B currents at a speed
called synchronous speed.
The stator rotating magnetic flux cuts through the rotor conductors to induce an alternating
emf into them. Since the rotor conductors are connected together at the ends, the induced
emf's set up rotor currents. The rotor currents also produce a magnetic flux which interacts
with the stator rotating flux which produces a torque (T) on the rotor conductor bars

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ETO ORALS QUESTIONS AND ANSWERS

Q) If we remove flame eye/fail what will happen?


A) A Flame eye is a photocell operated flame sensor fitted directly on the refractory to detect
weather the burner is firing or not. If the flame eye unit is malfunctioning, then it will give a trip
signal even before the burner starts firing.

The pilot burner is supplied with diesel oil and when the oil passes over, the former ignites.
The main burner which is supplied by heavy oil catches fire with the help of pilot burner.
If we take out flame eye, we will not come to know whether fuel is burning or not and un-
burn fuel will be undetected and can cause back fire.

Q) Difference between pressure transducer & pressure transmitter?


A) The conversion of pressure into an electrical signal is achieved by the physical
deformation of strain gages which are bonded into the diaphragm of the pressure
transducer and wired into a wheatstone bridge configuration. Pressure applied to the
pressure transducer produces a deflection of the diaphragm which introduces strain to the
gages. The strain will produce an electrical resistance change proportional to the pressure.

Transducers are voltage-output devices that can be used with simple signal conditioning but
are more sensitive to electromagnetic interference. The electrical resistance of the
connecting cable can cause significant errors if the cable is long. They require three or four
connecting wires to supply power and deliver the output signal.
Transmitters are current-output devices and may have two or three wires. Where two wires
are used to both receive power and transmit an output signal, 4 mA to 20 mA

Q) Boiler water circulating p/p circulating the water from aux boiler to economiser , why we
do not have a pressure switch instead of dp switch

Q) Difference between resistance and reactance. Cross quation?


A) Resistance (R) is the opposition that a substance offers to the flow of electric current.
Reactance (X) is a form of opposition that electronic components exhibit to the passage of
alternating current because of capacitance or inductance. 
In some respects, reactance is like an AC counterpart of DC (direct current) resistance. 

Q) ICCP
A) The outer surface of a ship's hull is subjected to electro-chemical attack by corrosive
currents that flow between areas of the hull which are at slightly different electric
potentials. Dissimilar metals, variations in structural and chemical uniformity in hull
plates and welding, differences in paint thickness and quality, water temperature,
salinity and aeration all combine to cause areas of the hull to become either anodic
(positive) or cathodic (negative). In the hull, electrons flow from anode to cathode leaving
positively charged iron ions at the anodic area. At the cathode the effect of the arrival of

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ETO ORALS QUESTIONS AND ANSWERS

electrons is to produce negatively charged hydroxyl ions (OH) by electrolysis of the sea
water. These negative ions flow through the sea to the anodic area where they combine
with the positive iron ions to form ferrous hydroxide Fe(OH)2. This ferrous hydroxide is
further oxidised by dissolved oxygen to form ferric hydroxide Fe(OH)3
which is rust. Thus the anodic area is gradually corroded away whilst no corrosion takes
place at the cathodic area. This naturally corrosive action can be overcome if the complete
hull is made cathodic, i.e. electrons are allowed to arrive at the hull surface and produce
negative hydroxyl ions but no electrons leave the hull to produce positive iron ions. This is
achieved y fitting insulated lead or platinised titanium anodes to the hull and applying a
positive d.c. potential to them with respect to the hull. The negatively charged hydroxyl ions
(OH) now pass to the insulated lead anodes causing the lead surface to change to lead
peroxide PbO2. The potential is of such a value that it just overcomes the original corrosion
current and gives rise to an impressed protection current which flows-in the complete
circuit. The value of protection current must be critically controlled to just prevent
corrosion, as beyond this value the increase in the rate of release of hydroxyion will cause
sponginess and flaking of the anti-fouling paint. The correct value of protection current
can be determined by reference electrodes. These are either of zinc or silver attached to the
hull, but insulated from it, below the waterline. The voltage measured between the
hull and reference electrodes of an unprotected ship with sea water as an electrolyte is:
Zinc electrode (450m V negative to hull) & Silver electrode (600m V positive to hull). When
satisfactorily protected, the protection current will make the hull 200 mV more negative, i.e.
a zinc reference electrode will register 250 mV negative to hull and silver 800 mV positive to
hull. The reference electrode voltage may, therefore, be used to monitor the protection, but
more important, is used as the signal source to automatically regulate the value of
protection current.

Q) Function of governor and what speciality in governor motor?


A) The principal control device on any engine is the governor. It governs or controls the
engine speed at some fixed value while power output changes to meet demand. This is
achieved by the governor automatically adjusting the engine fuel pump settings to meet the
desired load at the set speed. Governors for diesel engines are usually made up of two
systems: a speed sensing arrangement and a hydraulic unit which operates on the fuel
pumps to change the engine power output.
The electric governor uses a combination of electrical and mechanical components in its
operation. The speed sensing device is a small magnetic pick-up coil. The rectified, or d.c.,
voltage signal is used in conjunction with a desired or set speed signal to operate a hydraulic
unit. This unit will then move the fuel controls in the appropriate direction to control the
engine speed.

Q) If one long single core cable is lying from bridge to fwd inside conduit. How will u check
this cable?

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ETO ORALS QUESTIONS AND ANSWERS

Q) What is semiconductor?
A) A semiconductor is a substance, usually a solid chemical element or compound, that can
conduct electricity under some conditions but not others, making it a good medium for the
control of electrical current.

Q) Battery charging circuit?

Here is the circuit diagram of a simple and straight forward 12 V battery charger circuit with
diagram. This circuit can be used to charge all type of 12V rechargeable batteries including
car batteries. The circuit is nothing but a 12V DC power supply with an ammeter for
monitoring the charging current. The two diodes forms a centre tapped full wave rectifier.
The capacitor filters the rectifier output to produce a clean 12V output.

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ETO ORALS QUESTIONS AND ANSWERS

 At initial stages of charging the ammeter will read about 1 to 3 amperes.


 As the battery is slowly charged the current slowly decreases.
 When the battery is fully charged the ammeter reading will be zero.
 Always be careful to connect the charger to the battery in correct polarity. Positive
to positive and negative to negative.

Q) Pumproom speciality?
Entry Permit into Enclosed Space
Entry Control
Atmosphere Control
Effective communication
Gas Monitoring
Keep clean / clear in Pump Room
Maintenance Work in Pump Room
Rescue equipment
Notice shall be posted outside Pump Room as follows:
a. “No entry without prior permission”
b. Prior entry, ensure:
i. Ventilation exhaust is running
ii. Proper Lighting / illumination
iii. Personal Gas Meter
iv. Communication link with duty officer
v. Atmosphere checks (Oxygen-21%, HC gas-Nil, Toxic gases-Nil)

Q) Why gyro needs time for settling what basically it does during this time?
A) The ship's Gyro rotor in an Admiralty Gyro Type V [British Navy] is much much larger in
diameter (24") , driven by an electric motor which makes the rotor rotate at about 2500
rpm. . It takes 4-6 hours to settle on a steady position, because the moment of inertia takes
its time.
The modern Gyros are much much lighter and smaller, but rotate at very high speeds ( 6000
rpm), and the resultant effect is that the gyro settles down in about 30 mins.
The aircraft gyros are driven by vaccuum pumps, and rotate at extremely high speeds,
( 30,000 rpm) so that they settle down in 3-4 minutes.

Q) Function of TR switch in radar , what happens if it doesn't work or malfunction.


A) A duplexer is an electronic device that allows bi-directional (duplex) communication over
a single path. In radar and radio communications systems, it isolates the receiver from the
transmitter while permitting them to share a common antenna.

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In radar, a transmit/receive (TR) switch alternately connects the transmitter and receiver to
a shared antenna. The switch consists of a gas-discharge tube across the input terminals of
the receiver. When the transmitter is active, the resulting high voltage causes the tube to
conduct, shorting together the receiver terminals to protect it

Q) Does iccp current make any effect on mgps?


A) The system consists of a CONTROL UNIT which supplies impressed current to Anodes.
The COPPER anode produces ions, which are carried away by the sea water into the piping
and machinery system. Concentration of copper in the solution is less than 2 parts per
billion but enough to prevent marine life from settling.
Basic principle on which MGPS runs is electrolysis. The process involves usage of Copper,
Aluminum and Ferrous Anodes.

Q) Rms /average factor.


A) The RMS value of a set of value is the square root of the arithmetic mean of the squares
of the values, or the square of the function that defines the continuous waveform.
Definition: The average of all the instantaneous values of an alternating voltage and
currents over one complete cycle is called Average Value.
The maximum value attained by an alternating quantity during one cycle is called its Peak
value.

Q) Chapters of solas names , Chapter 13

Q) Solas regulations for emergency generators.


 Emergency switch board And emergency generator should located above the uppermost
continuous deck.
 Main switch board or any machinery space will not interface with the supply, control
and distribution of emergency electrical power.
 Emergency switch board should be in same space where the emergency generator is
located.
 Driven by a suitable prime mover with an independent supply of fuel, having a flash
point of not less than 43 degree C.
 Generated power should be capable of supplying all those services that are essential for
safety in an emergency.
 Should be capable of giving power up to the periods of 18 hrs for cargo ships, 36 hrs for
passenger ships.
 Emergency generator should be easily startable at zero degree and if the temp is below
this heating arrangement should be provided.
 Should have automatic starting system. Primary (battery) should be charged fully at all
times. Dedicated only to start the prime mover. Capable of providing 3 consecutive
starts. Secondary (pneumatic or hydraulic) - Capable of providing 3 consecutive starts
within 30 minutes.

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 It should comes on load automatically with in 45 sec after the failure of main power
supply.
 Should give full rated power, when the ship is up right and when inclined at any angle of
list up to 22.5 degree or inclined 10 degree either aft or fwd.
If fails to come on load , then indication to be given in the ECR

Q) Marpol annex 2 catagory


A) Annex II- Regulations for the Control of Pollution by Noxious Liquid Substances in Bulk
The discharge into the sea of residues of substances assigned to category X, Y or Z

Q) Marpol annex 4
A) Annex IV- Regulations for the Prevention of Pollution by Sewage from Ships
discharging comminuted and disinfected sewage at a distance of more than 3 nautical miles from
the nearest land, or sewage which is not comminuted or disinfected at a distance of more than 12
nautical miles from the nearest land or the sewage that has been stored in holding tanks
the test results of the plant are laid down in the ship's International Sewage Pollution Prevention
Certificate;

Q) Certificates in marpol
A) International Tonnage Certificate (1969),
International Load Line Certificate
International Load Line Exemption Certificate
Certificates for masters, officers or ratings
International Oil Pollution Prevention Certificate
International Sewage Pollution Prevention Certificate
Voyage data recorder system - certificate of compliance
Safety Management Certificate
International Ship Security Certificate (ISSC) or Interim International Ship Security Certificate
Cargo Ship Safety Certificate
Certificate of Fitness for the Carriage of Liquefied Gases in Bulk

Q) Convention, protocol, amendment, difference


A) Conventions
International conventions are agreed when a number of countries, which are members of
the IMO, feel that there is a need for a convention. Such countries meet together, usually at
the invitation of the International Maritime Organization (IMO), and discuss about various
proposals and finally come to an agreement which is recorded in the form of a Final Act of
Conference. Regulations are generally technical provisions of the convention.

Protocol

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When a major amendment is to be incorporated on regulations of the convention, a


protocol is called among the countries, who are signatory of the original convention when it
was signed and approved. E.g. for MARPOL 73/78, the year1973 in which the act was passed
was the convention and in1978 what was passed was the protocol.

Amendments
The regulations enforced by the conventions are required to be amended frequently from
time to time to keep pace with the rapid evolving technology in the shipping world.
Amendments of the convention can be made by either of the following methods described
below
A) After consideration within IMO
B) Amendment by Conference

Q) IMO structure
A) The Organization consists of an Assembly, a Council and five main Committees: the Maritime
Safety Committee; the Marine Environment Protection Committee; the Legal Committee; the
Technical Cooperation Committee and the Facilitation Committee and a number of Sub-Committees
support the work of the main technical committees.

Q) 4 pillers of IMO?
A) MARPOL, STCW ,SOLAS & MLC

Q) Marpol equipment in engine room. Ows operation.


A) MARPOL has a regulation under ANNEX I stipulates that the engine room bilges must
only be pumped out through suitable oil water processing equipment (bilge oil separator) or
retained for discharge ashore.
Separator unit
This unit consists of catch plates which are inside a coarse separating compartment and an
oil collecting chamber.
The Filter unit
This is a separate unit whose input comes from the discharge of the first unit.
This unit consists of three stages – filter stage, coalescer stage and collecting chamber.
Oil Content Monitor and Control Unit
 This unit functions together in two parts – monitoring and controlling.
 The ppm of oil is continuously monitored by Oil Content Monitor (OCM); if the ppm
is high it will give alarm and feed data to the control unit.
 The control unit continuously monitors the output signal of OCM and if alarm arises,
it will not allow the oily water to go overboard by means of operating 3 way solenoid
valve.
 There are normally 3 solenoid valves commanded by control unit. These are located
in the first unit oil collecting chamber, second unit oil collecting chamber and one in
discharge side of the oily water separator which is a 3 way valve.

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 The 3 way valve inlet is from the OWS discharge, where one outlet is to overboard
and second outlet is to OWS sludge tank.
 When OCM gives alarm, 3 way valve discharges oily mixture in the sludge tank.

Q) Co2 bottle pr testing or material, co2 what state in bottle where it will be converted into
gas , Filling ratio of co2 bottle ?
A) Pressure Testing of CO2 Flooding System
Pipe Section Area Material Test
Low Pressure Section Branch Pipe to Nozzles Galvanized Seamless 7 Bar Air Blowing Test
Manganese Steel
Medium Pressure Section Master Valve to Main Pipe Galvanized Seamless 80 Bar Pressure Test
Branches Manganese Steel
High Pressure Section CO2 Cylinder to Master Galvanized Seamless 190 Bar Pressure Test
Valve Manganese Steel
Pilot Control Line Control Lines Copper Tube 58 Bar Pressure Test

Main CO2 bottles contain carbon dioxide in liquid state with a pressure of 56 bar at 20
degree

Maximum filling ratio of 0.667 kg/liter of cylinder volume

Q) Fire pump regulation and emgcy pump regulation


 Passenger ships of 1000 grt and upwards and in cargo ships of 2000 grt and upwards
must have fixed emergency fire pump independently driven by a self cooled
compression ignition engine or an electric motor driven by electric power from
emergency generator.
 It must be located outside the E/R room, in the steering flat, shaft tunnel or in
forward part of the ship.
 It must have own suction, total suction head should not exceed 4.5 meters under
all conditions of list or trim.
 Pump capacity must not less than 25m3/hr and must be able to deliver two ½ inches
bore jet of water having a horizontal throw not less than 40 ft.
 Fuel tank for engine shall contain sufficient fuel to run on full load for at least 3 hrs
and reserve fuel for 15hrs, store outside the machinery space.
 The prime mover engine at that unit must be hand started and able to start by one
man.
 If the pump is fitted above the water level, priming arrangement must be fitted.
 If diesel engine driven, (a) Easily started in cold condition (zero degree C by hand
cranking ), (b) Fuel tank for engine shall contain sufficient to run on full load for at
least 3 hrs and (c) Sufficient reserve fuel for 15 hrs, store outside the machinery
space.
 If motor driven: emergency power supply heating arrangement to be provided.

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ETO ORALS QUESTIONS AND ANSWERS

Q) Solas chapter which deals with bulk carriers & explain,


SOLAS CHAPTER XII - Additional safety measures for bulk carriers

Q) Life saving appliances with regards to electrical?


A) Personal Protective Equipment (PPE) includes safety glasses, face shields, hard hats,
safety shoes, insulating (rubber) gloves with leather protectors, insulating sleeves, and
flame-resistant (FR) clothing. Additional PPE, such as fall protection equipment, respirators,
chemical-resistant or cut-resistant gloves, and chaps

Q) Load line diagram fresh water allowance


A) Load line is a special marking positioned amidships which depicts the draft of the vessel
and the maximum permitted limit in distinct types of waters to which the ship can be
loaded.
Fresh Water :- It is the summer fresh water load line. The distance between S and F is the
Fresh Water Allowance (FWA).

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Q) Importance of Present of Reactive Power


A) Voltage control in an electrical power system is important for proper operation for
electrical power equipment to prevent damage such as overheating of generators and
motors, to reduce transmission losses and to maintain the ability of the system to withstand
and prevent voltage collapse. In general terms, decreasing reactive power causing voltage to
fall while increasing it causing voltage to rise. A voltage collapse occurs when the system try
to serve much more load than the voltage can support.

Q) What is Reactive Power?


A) While active power is the energy supplied to run a motor, heat a home, or illuminate an
electric light bulb, reactive power provides the important function of regulating voltage. If
voltage on the system is not high enough, active power cannot be supplied. Reactive power
is used to provide the voltage levels necessary for active power to do useful work. Reactive
power is essential to move active power through the transmission and distribution system
to the customer.

Q) Engine, boiler safeties?


A) Alarms in Boiler
    a. Low water level Alarm
    b. Too low water level alarm.
    c. High water level alarm
    d. High fuel oil temp. alarm.
    e. Low fuel oil temp. alarm
     f. Low boiler pressure alarm.
    Trips in Boiler
     a. Low Low level water trip
     b. High boiler pressure trip.
     c. Flame failure
     d. Low fuel oil pressure trip.

Q) Marpol annex 5 explain in detail.


A) Regulations for the Prevention of pollution by garbage from ships are contained in Annex
V of MARPOL.
Port reception facilities
Special areas
The special areas established under Annex V are:

 the Mediterranean Sea area


 the Baltic Sea area
 the Black Sea area  
 the Red Sea area
 the Gulfs area

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 the North Sea area 


 the Wider Caribbean Region and
 the Antarctic area.

Port State control


Placards
Garbage management plans
Garbage Record Book
Cargo residues
Shipboard incinerators

Q) What is sagging?
A) A voltage sag or voltage dip is a short duration reduction in rms voltage which can be caused by a
short circuit, overload or starting of electric motors. A voltage sag happens when the rms voltage
decreases between 10 and 90 percent of nominal voltage for one-half cycle to one minute

Q) Manifold fire (LPG) how to extinguish?


A) Dry chemical powder
 To raise the alarm immediately.
 attempt to control the fire using the nearest Dry chemical powder
 In port, shore assistance must be called immediately; if possible all cargo hoses should
be isolated and disconnected. Bring main engines to readiness.
 At sea the ship should be manoeuvred so as to minimise the risk of fire spreading.
Consider stopping mechanical ventilation in affected area.

Q) If 12 v battery is showing 15 volts what may be the reason?


A) problem with regulated charge controller. (battery charger)

Q) How u will show surveyor battery is full charge n holding the charge?
A) Switch off battery charge for the unit and measure voltage drop on battery bank. It will go
down for a moment and then hold on.

Q) Excitation in generator ?
The magnetic field is produced from a DC power source from an Exciter
Static Exciter
In modern generators the exciters are static. The DC power for the electromagnet is from
the main generator output itself. A number of high power thyristors rectify the AC current
to produce a DC current which feeds to the rotor through slip rings. During start up, when

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ETO ORALS QUESTIONS AND ANSWERS

there is no output from the generator, a large battery bank provides the necessary power
for excitation.

Brushless Exciter
Another method is the brushless system. In this system the armature of the exciter is on the
rotor shaft itself. The DC output of this armature, after rectification by solid-state devices,
goes to the rotor coils. Since the armature and rotor are on the same rotating shaft, this
eliminates the need for slip rings

Q) If motor trips what you will check? After checking everything still it trips what may be the
reason?
1. Over-Current
2. Low Resistance
3. Over heating
4. Dirt
5. Moisture
6. Vibration
Over current relay setting/ relay problem
Gland packing too tight
Worn out / damaged ball bearing

Q) Draw the diagram of Hydrophore motor starter in Auto mode ?

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ETO ORALS QUESTIONS AND ANSWERS

Q) What do u mean by SOLAS ? Why n how it's benefits ?


A) Safety of Life at Sea (SOLAS)
Life-threatening occupation, comply with minimum safety standards, person safety, ship
safety, Life saving equipment and other emergency equipment standards
Dangerous cargo safety,
Prevent of collision at sea, safe navigation,
Safe management system
Maritime safety and security.
Environment safety
Working and living conditions better.
Health benefits.

Q) Navigation equipment Chapter?


A) Chapter V, Safety of Navigation
Navigational Warnings, Search and rescue services, Life-saving signals, Voyage data
recorders, Ships' manning, Navigation equipment, Automatic Identification Systems

Q) Generator trips?
A) The various trips and alarms are mentioned as follows
Alternator bearing low oil level alarm & trip
Alternator bearing high temperature lube oil alarm &trip
Low sump oil level alarm and trip
Lube low oil pressure alarm and trip
Reverse current trip
Over speed trip
Over load trip
High and low frequency trip
Jacket cooling water low-pressure alarm

Q ) Alternator safety ?
1.Body earthing
2.Neutral earthing
3.Winding Temperature
4.Over current protection
5.Over/Under voltage protection
6.Over/Under frequency protection
7.Earth fault protection
8.Reverse power protection
9.Loss of field protection
10. Water Cooler leakage
11. Water temperature high

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ETO ORALS QUESTIONS AND ANSWERS

Q) What's annex 6 marpol?


A) Prevention of Air Pollution from Ships
MARPOL Annex VI - progressive reduction globally in emissions of SO x, NOx
Regulations for ozone-depleting substances, volatile organic compounds, shipboard
incineration, reception facilities and fuel oil quality. 
Impact on the atmospheric environment and on human health, people living in port cities
and coastal communities.

Q) What is Surface effect?


A) When a tank on the ship’s centreline is not completely full of liquid, and the ship heels, the liquid
in the tank moves across the tank in the same direction as the direction of heel. Because of this
effect, the centre of gravity of the ship moves away from the centreline, which reduces the righting
lever  ‘GZ’ & the height of the metacentre, which further increases the angle of heel. This effect is
known as the free surface effect.

Q) After isolating everything n motor still give shock, what maybe the reason?
A) Charge capacitor, Breaker fault, equipment is not properly grounded
motor rotating due mechanical fluid movement, Moist/damp hands, Winding leakage

Q) Explain OMD?
A) The oil mist detector uses a photoelectric cell to measure small increases in oil density. A
motor driven fan continuously draws samples of crankcase oil mist through a measuring
tube. An increased meter reading and an alarm will result if any crack case sample contains
excessive mist when compared to either clean air or to the other crankcase compartments.
The alarm will cause an engine slowdown or shut down.

Q) Ballast pump motor cannot start when start button is pressed how u will solve?
A) Power management system, stop button press/lock, suction/discharge valve not open,
suction/discharge pressure switch problem,

Q) Co2 release door is opened alarm started but fans didn’t trip what can be the reason?
A) Door limit switch struck, switch jumped, see proper equipment, breaker shunt trip
problem,

Q) Why a mechanical interlock is given for the transformer in MSB.


A) Mechanical Interlock are used when there two or more source of power, supply to a common
load. It is design so as not to switch on the both power supply source at the same time. You can only
switch on one breaker at a time. This will avoid the Electrical Fault cause by two power source
simultaneously supplying common load.

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Q) Why welding machine supply not shorting when the electrodes touches the hull.
A) An electric current, alternating current or direct current from a welding power supply, is
used to form an electric arc between the electrode and the metals to be joined
constant current output, ensuring that the current (and thus the heat) remains relatively
constant, even if the arc distance and voltage change.
Place the return clamp and cable as close to where welding takes place as possible;
Remember that there is as much current running through the return cable as through the
welding cable, high frequency.

Q) What is alternate solution for Neutral Earthing Resistor?


A) High Resistance Grounding: high-resistance grounding solutions allow for continuous
operation and increased safety during fault conditions. Provides ground fault detection and
control of transient overvoltages during a single-phase to ground fault on an ungrounded
system

Q) why both lighting transformers cannot be connected in parallel ?


A)Reason why both 440/230V Lighting transformers are not allowed to be connected in
parallel on ships.
But in case where the MSB can be split (as in newer ships), then the design/ circuits of MSB
will not allow both 440/230V lighting transformers to be connected in parallel, simply
because when the MSB is made to split, then there will exists a parallel path of electricity
through these two 440/230V lighting transformers that are connected in parallel, causing
damage to either or both lighting transformers.

Q) Part of the transformer which is most subject to damage from overheating is


A) Winding insulation

Q) If a transformer is switched on to a voltage more than the rated voltage


A) Its power factor will deteriorate

Q) Auto-transformer makes effective saving on copper and copper losses, when its
transformation ratio is
A) Approximately equal to one

Q) Minimum voltage regulation occurs when the power factor of the load is
A) Leading

Q) In a step-down transformer, there is a change of 15 A in the load current. This results in


change of supply current of
A) Less than 15 A

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ETO ORALS QUESTIONS AND ANSWERS

Q) The efficiencies of transformers compared with that of electric motors of the same
power are
A) Much higher

Q) Solas equipment onboard


A) lifeboats, liferafts, and rescue boats. Life saving appliances. GMDSS, EPIRB, SART, Fire
detection, fire fighting equipments, Navigation aids, AIS, VDR, ship security alert system,

Q) How you start day/daily rounds?


A) Check Photo copy.

Q) Normal safety on tanker?


A) Tanker safety - preventing accidental pollution
SOLAS
Inert gas systems
Equipment duplication
Mandatory towing arrangements
Reducing the consequences of accidents
Protective location of segregated ballast tanks
Double hulls
Enhanced inspections
Mandatory ship reporting
The International Regulations for the Prevention of Collisions at Sea,
STCW Convention
ISM Code

Q) What does different position of the synchroscope needle mean; what is the difference
between 6 o clock and 12 clock?
A) 6 o’clock means that out of synchronisation. We cannot parallel the incoming generator.
12 o’clock means the perfect synchronised condition (voltage, frequency and phase
sequence match).

Q) Why do we close the switch at 11 o'clock and not at 12 o' clock?


A) When the synchroscope is approaching 12 o'clock the voltage differential between the
phases is minimal (it's zero when the synchroscope is at 12 o'clock). Due to time taken to
close the synchronoscope switch, it is generally done at 11 o’clock. Due to the small delay to
close, by doing at 11 o’clock, we are achieving closing close to 12 o’clock.

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ETO ORALS QUESTIONS AND ANSWERS

Q) Why is a Megger used for insulation test and not a multi meter?
A) With a megger, a voltage of not less than 500 volts DC is used for testing the insulation
resistance of windings. With a multi-meter, the voltage used is not more than 3-volts DC.
Megger uses high impedance testing and is therefore more accurate than a multi-meter

Q) What is the full form of ACB?


A) Air circuit breaker. It is normally used at 400V and higher current applications (generator
breakers).

Q) If you press the ACB Close button on an idle generator what will happen?
A) Normally, the breaker won’t close until you synchronise, so even if you press the breaker
close, it will not close. The breaker has under-voltage protection which will not let you close
the breaker.

Q) What is Under-voltage protection?


A) It prevents closure of the breaker by mistake, or the generator that is coming on load
during parallel operation. It also provides protection against loss of voltage while machinery
is connected to the switchboard.

Q) What is the meaning of preferential trip? Why is it provided?


A) Preferential trip is a kind of electrical arrangement on ship which is designed to
disconnect the non-essential circuit / load from the main bus bar in case of partial failure or
overload of the main supply. It lets the essential loads to run (like steering gear) and trips
the non essential loads (like AC and galley) and is a safety feature.

Q) What is the purpose of the earth fault indication on the switch board?
A) It detects and indicates phase to earth fault on a circuit.

Q) If you get an earth fault alarm what will you do?


A) The fault can be investigated by first identifying areas of ship that have a high chance of
earth fault (example deck lighting or galley equipment) and then switching off their supplies
one at a time to see if the alarm is gone. When a particular load clears the alarm, we know
that circuit is having earth fault and we can go and repair it.

Q) What is Direct Current?


A) Direct current (DC) is the unidirectional (single direction) flow of electric charge.

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ETO ORALS QUESTIONS AND ANSWERS

Q) What is alternating current?


A) An electric current that reverses its direction many times a second at regular intervals,
typically used in power supplies

Q) What is meant by phase in AC?


A) Two or more AC voltages or currents that are out of step with each other. Their peaks
and zero points do not match up at the same points in time. This is meant by phase.

Q) Is there phase in DC?


A) No

Q) Why is DC not much in use now?


A) AC generators are a better technology and voltage transformation (by transformers) is
easily possible in AC and not DC.

Q) Where are you likely to see DC use?


A) Battery powered DC is generally used in navigation, control and safety systems mainly in
navigation, radar, safety systems, antenna and communication systems and emergency
lighting.

Q) What does three-phase current mean?


A) Three current sinusoidal waveforms equal in magnitude but with a phase shift of 120
degrees.

Q) What is rms value?


A) Root mean square value is the peak value divided by square root of 2. (Vp = VRMS × √2)

Q) What is the meaning of power factor?


A) Power factor is the cosine of the angle between voltage and current waveform.
The power factor of an AC electrical power system is defined as the ratio of the real power
flowing to the load to the apparent power in the circuit,
Active" power is power that does actual work
The portion of power due to stored energy, which returns to the source in each cycle, is known as
reactive power. Doesn’t do any real work. Reactive power" is power where the current is out
of phase with the voltage
Apparent power" is the mathematical combination of these two.
Active power P, or real power: watt (W)
Reactive power, Q: volt-ampere reactive (var)
Apparent power, |S|: the magnitude of complex power S: volt-ampere (VA)

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ETO ORALS QUESTIONS AND ANSWERS

Q) What is the usual pf value you see onboard?


A) Usually 0.8.

Q) What is the best value possible?


A) 1 is the best value possible. That is possible with a purely resistive load.

Q) What is the benefit of improving power factor?


A) Power factor close to 1 means for the same real power in kW, the load current is less and
hence the I2R losses are less. The system efficiency is higher as the losses are lower.
Improved voltage regulation is achieved.

Q) How can it be improved?


A) Power factor improvement capacitor banks are used if the loads are mainly resistive.

Q) What is the meaning of saying I and V are in phase?


A) The angle between I and V waveforms is zero which means the load is purely resistive.

Q) Why are motor ratings given in KW and that of alternator and transformer given in KVA?
A) Transformer, Generator and Alternator rated in kVA
There are two type of losses in a transformer;
1. Copper Losses
2. Iron Losses or Core Losses or Insulation Losses
Copper losses (I²R) depends on Current which passing through transformer winding while
Iron Losses or Core Losses or Insulation Losses depends on Voltage.
So the Cu Losses depend on the rating current of the load so the load type will determine
the powerfactor P.F , Thats why the rating of Transformer in kVA, Not in kW.
Designer doesn’t know the actual consumer power factor while manufacturing transformers
and generators i.e. the P.F (Power factor) of Transformer and Generator/Alternator depends
on the nature of connected load such as resistive load, capacitive load, and inductive load as
Motors, etc.
But Motor has fixed Power factor, i.e. motor has defined power factor and the rating has
been mentioned in KW on Motor nameplate. That’s why we are rated Motor in kW or HP
instead of kVA.
In addition, Motor is a device which converts Electrical power into Mechanical power. In this
case, the load is not electrical, but mechanical and we take into the account only active
power which has to be converted into mechanical load. Moreover, the motor power factor
does not depend on the load and it works on any P.F because of its design.

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ETO ORALS QUESTIONS AND ANSWERS

Q) Where does reactive power go?


A) Reactive power is not 'lost'. It is delivered to the motor where it sustains the electric field
that enables the motor to convert the real power (electrical) into mechanical torque.

Q) What is a semi conductor?


A) Substance as germanium or silicon whose electrical conductivity is intermediate between
that of a metal and an insulator; its conductivity increases with temperature and in the
presence of impurities.

Q) What is doping?
A) Doping intentionally introduces impurities into an extremely pure (intrinsic)
semiconductor for the purpose of modulating its electrical properties. The impurities are
dependent upon the type of semiconductor. Lightly and moderately doped semiconductors
are referred to as extrinsic. A semiconductor doped to such high levels that it acts more like
a conductor than a semiconductor is referred to as degenerate.

Q) What happens to insulation when temperature rises?


A) For insulators, an increase in temperature will cause their resistance to decrease that is
why excessive temperature is often the main reason insulation failure.

Q) What happens to resistance of conductors when temperature rises?


A) For conductors an increase in temperature will cause their resistance to increase.

Q) What is an induction motor?


A) An induction motor is an alternating current motor in which the primary winding on one
member (usually the stator) is connected to the power source and a secondary winding or a
squirrel-cage secondary winding on the other member (usually the rotor) carries the
induced current.

Q) What is "slip"?
A) An AC induction motor consists of stator and rotor. The interaction of currents flowing in
the rotor bars and the stators' rotating magnetic field generate a torque. In an actual
operation, the rotor speed always lags the rotating magnetic field's speed, allowing the
rotor bars to cut magnetic lines of force and produce useful torque. This speed difference is
called the slip. The difference between the synchronous speed of the magnetic field and the
shaft rotating speed is slip - measured in RPM or frequency.
Slip increase with increasing load - providing a greater torque.
Q) What is a synchronous motor?

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ETO ORALS QUESTIONS AND ANSWERS

A) A constant-speed motor, the speed being dependent on the frequency of the ac supply
and the number of poles for which it is designed.

Q) Where is it used?
A) Synchronous motors find applications in all industrial applications where constant speed
is necessary. Improving the power factor as Synchronous condensers. Electrical power
plants almost always use synchronous generators because it is important to keep the
frequency constant at which the generator is connected. Low power applications include
positioning machines, where high precision is required, and robot actuators.

Q) What is an AVO meter?


A) The Avometer was a British brand of multimeter, latterly owned by Megger. It is often
called simply an AVO and derives its name from the first letter of the words
amperes, volts, ohms

Q) How do you check continuity?


A) Set the multimeter in resistance mode and then check with probes the resistance
between the points or circuit under check. If the resistance is low or zero, it means
continuity. If it is high or infinite, it means open circuit.

Q) What limits the electrical load?


A) The available power is fixed and the voltage is fixed, so the setting of the breaker or fuse
is the normal current of the load. If the load exceeds the rated current, then the breaker or
fuse will operate and limit the load.

Q) What is the voltage used in a megger?


A) 500V DC.

Q) How does current flow during welding?


A) The current flows through the electrode and to the clamp. That's how it flows in MIG,
stick, flux cored. On Tig, the electricity flows through the electrode also except that now
that's the only function of it, the rod is held in your hand and electrode in the other.

Q) What do we use for welding on ships? AC or DC?


A) AC (safety) , AC welding voltage 20 volts to 100 volts.
Q) What is the voltage used for ignition in boilers/incinerators etc.?
A) Normally 10,000V (10kV).

DHIRAJ A. SAIJARE Page 46


ETO ORALS QUESTIONS AND ANSWERS

Q) Why is it different from that for welding?


A) It is higher as the ignition requires break down of air gap for spark to occur. The air
breaks down at this high voltage of 10kV. Therefore, it is higher than normal welding
voltage.

Q) Does current flow through hull during welding?


A) Yes

Q) If so why don't you get a shock?


A) Because the whole hull is at the same potential, so there is no potential difference to get
a shock. Body has resistance far greater than other path take (e.g. the ground path to Earth has
the lowest resistance) current flow low resistance path, hence it will not flow into your body.

Q) What is safe voltage to prevent shock?


A) Normally 50V. It depends on the body resistance and how conducting the path is
(example use of insulating boots or mat may allow slightly higher voltage to be safe)

Q) What is the meaning of earthing in a ship?


A) The hull is used as the ground plane.

Q) What is the meaning of Star winding/ Delta winding?


Q) What is the meaning of ACB, MCCB, NFB?
A) Air circuit breaker for 400V higher current ratings.
Moulded case circuit breaker for 400V medium current ratings.
No Fuse Breaker – 75 A capacity

Q) What is a magnetic contactor? Where is it used?


A) A contactor is an electrically controlled switch used for switching a power circuit, similar
to a relay except with higher current ratings.
Contactors are used to control electric motors, lighting, heating, capacitor banks, and other
electrical loads.

Q) What is a relay? How is it different from a magnetic contactor?


A) Contactor is a heavy duty switch whereas the relay is light duty switch. Relays can be as
simple as 12 V DC solenoids with 12 V, 0.5 A rated contacts. They are used to detect faults
on the power system and signal a local or remote switching device (breaker) to trip the
circuit.

DHIRAJ A. SAIJARE Page 47


ETO ORALS QUESTIONS AND ANSWERS

Q) What is the meaning of overload?


A) An overload is a current over and above the normal load current (over the load). 
In other words greater than the original design current. This can be a momentary overload
such as the starting current for a motor which is usually ignored or it can be a sustained
overload such as plugging in too many appliances at once or a motor that has faulty
bearings or gets jammed 

Q) What is meaning of short circuit?


A) A short circuit occurs when conductors are connected (shorted) together by a fault. This
is normally phase to phase fault due to failure of insulation by something cutting the wires,
fires, etc.

Q) How is protection provided for OL and SC?


A) Damage from short circuits and overloads can be reduced or prevented by employing
fuses, circuit breakers, or other overload protection, which disconnect the power in reaction
to excessive current. The tripping time is much less (in milli seconds) for short circuit due to
very high currents but can higher (a few seconds) due to currents say 1.1 to 1.5 times the
normal current.

Q) What is the function of a fuse?


A) Fuse places a limit on the amount of current that can be drawn by an electric circuit by
opening (blowing or melting) when the current exceeds a preset limit. This protects the
circuit and the surroundings from fire or damage in the case of an overload or short circuit.

Q) What is the normal setting of overload relays?


A) Normally 90-100% of rated normal current. Sometimes can be set to 105% of rated
current.

Q) How does a thermal overload relay work?


A) The bi-metallic strip in the relay heats up by the over load current and the movement in
the bi-metallic strip causes the breaker to trip. The breaker has to be reset (turn off) before
turning on again. Sometimes it takes a time delay for the bi-metallic strip to cool down after
which the breaker can be reset and switched on.

Q) What is single phasing?


A) Single phasing is a condition in three phase motors and transformers wherein the supply
to one of the phases is cut off.

DHIRAJ A. SAIJARE Page 48


ETO ORALS QUESTIONS AND ANSWERS

Q) How can it happen?


A) Single phasing is caused by the use of single-phase protection devices such as fuses.
Three phase loads should be protected by devices which cause the interruption of power to
all three phases simultaneously when a fault occurs. Defective contacts or loose connections
in three phase breakers can also cause single phasing.

Q) What is the harm caused by this?


A) Single phasing causes higher than rated currents in the healthy phases of loads such as
motors causing over heating of the motor and consequently motor failure. Single phasing
can sometimes cause excessive noise and vibration in motors.

Q) What protection is provided against this?


A) Single phasing can be identified by special protective relays which can identify and isolate
the connected loads. Smaller motors rely on over current and negative phase sequence
relays. Motor protection relays for larger motors come readily fitted with protection against
single phasing.
(Negative phase sequence in induction motors is caused due to unbalanced voltages in the
supply voltage applied on the stator terminals or unbalanced windings)

Q) Why is it necessary that incoming alternator frequency is more than bus bar?
A) Prior to paralleling alternators together, the frequency of the incoming alternator is made
slightly higher. This is to ensure that the incoming generator will take some of the bus
load. If the incoming generator is slow it will become motorized and will add load onto the
bus. If this happens it is possible to cause other generators to trip off line.

Q) What is dark lamp and bright lamp method for synchronizing? How is the connection
made?
A) Formerly, three light bulbs were connected between the generator terminals and the
system terminals.  As the generator speed changes, the lights will rise and fall in intensity at
a rate proportional to the difference between generator frequency and system frequency.
When the voltage at the generator is opposite to the system voltage (either ahead or behind
in phase), the lamps will be bright. When the voltage at the generator matches the system
voltage, the lights will be dark. At that instant, the circuit breaker connecting the generator
to the system may be closed and the generator will then stay in synchronism with the
system.

DHIRAJ A. SAIJARE Page 49


ETO ORALS QUESTIONS AND ANSWERS

Q) Apart from renewing bearings is there any reason for opening up motors for
maintenance?
A) Rotor and stator internal inspection of wear and overheating, Insulation checks and
renewal (example using insulation spray on stator winding insulation).

Q) Why is this reverse power used instead of reverse current in alternators?


A) It is extremely difficult to detect reverse current with an alternating current system,
reverse power can be detected and protection can be provided by reverse power relay.

Q) What is the meaning of excitation in an alternator?


A) An electric generator or electric motor consists of a rotor spinning in a magnetic field. The
magnetic field may be produced by permanent magnets or by field coils. In the case of a
machine with field coils, a current must flow in the coils to generate the field, otherwise no
power is transferred to or from the rotor. The process of generating a magnetic field by
means of an electric current is called excitation.

Q) Is the field current in an alternator AC or DC ?


A) DC

Q) Is the field rotating or stationary?


A) Rotating

Q) How is it supplied?
A) The rotor's magnetic field is supplied by a rotor winding energized with direct current
through slip rings and brushes.

Q) What is a brush less alternator?


A) A brushless alternator is composed of two sections:  main alternator and the smaller
exciter. The exciter has stationary field coils and a rotating armature (power coils). The main
alternator uses the opposite configuration with a rotating field and stationary armature.
A bridge rectifier, called the rotating rectifier assembly, is mounted on a plate attached to
the rotor. Neither brushes nor slip rings are used, which reduces the number of wearing
parts. The main alternator has a rotating field as described above and a stationary armature
(power generation windings).

DHIRAJ A. SAIJARE Page 50


ETO ORALS QUESTIONS AND ANSWERS

Q) How is the excitation achieved in this?


A) Varying the amount of current through the stationary exciter field coils varies the 3-phase
output from the exciter. This output is rectified by a rotating rectifier assembly, mounted on
the rotor, and the resultant DC supplies the rotating field of the main alternator and hence
alternator output. The result of all this is that a small DC exciter current indirectly controls
the output of the main alternator.

Q) What is the meaning of residual magnetism?


A) Residual magnetism is a property in which certain amount of excitation remains back in
the conductor even after the removal of the magnets.

Q) Why is an air compressor started unloaded?


A) The air pressure inside the compressor cylinder offers resistance to the movement of the
piston. Hence started unloaded.

Q) How is the speed of a 3-phase induction motor varied?


A) The speed of a normal 3-phase induction motor is a function of the frequency of the
supply voltage. Changing the speed of such a motor hence requires building a 3-phase
power frequency convertor. This can be realised by using power MOSFETs (or IGBTs)
capable of handling high voltages and fast switching speeds.
The metal–oxide–semiconductor field-effect transistor MOSFET

Q) How is the direction of rotation varied?


A) By changing the phase sequence (from say R-Y-B to R-B-Y)

Q) How does this cause a rotation to change?


A) Due to the change in phase sequence, the rotating magnetic field changes direction and
the rotor rotates in the opposite direction.

Q) How is the speed of a DC motor varied?


A) To vary the speed of a DC motor we need a constant voltage power supply with a series
POT resistor of higher watt rating. N = V - Ia Ra / kØ
Terminal voltage of the armature V.
External resistance in armature circuit Ra.
Flux per pole φ.
Armature control methods, or by Field control methods.

DHIRAJ A. SAIJARE Page 51


ETO ORALS QUESTIONS AND ANSWERS

Q) How is the direction varied?


A) A general purpose DC motor can be reversed by changing the polarity of either the
armature or the field but not both.

Q) What is a diode?
A) In electronics, a diode is a two-terminal electronic component with asymmetric transfer
characteristic, with low (ideally zero) resistance to current flow in one direction, and high
(ideally infinite) resistance in the other. A semiconductor diode, the most common type
today, is a crystalline piece of semiconductor material with a p-n junction connected to two
electrical terminals

Q) What is a zener diode?


A) A zener diode is a special kind of diode which allows current to flow in the forward
direction in the same manner as an ideal diode, but will also permit it to flow in the reverse
direction when the voltage is above a certain value known as the breakdown voltage, "zener
knee voltage" or "zener voltage."

Q) What is a thyristor? What is an SCR?


A) A thyristor is a solid-state semiconductor device with four layers of alternating N and P-
type material. They act as bistable switches, conducting when their gate receives a current
trigger, and continue to conduct while they are forward biased (that is, while the voltage
across the device is not reversed).
A silicon-controlled rectifier (or semiconductor-controlled rectifier) is a four-layer solid
state device that controls current. It is a type of thyristor.

Q) How does an inverter work?


A) An inverter converts DC supply into AC by use of electronic devices such as diodes and
thyristors.

Q) How does a tube light work?


A) Simple Explanation Hot and Cold Cathode Lamps: Fluorescent lamps work by ionizing
mercury vapor in a glass tube. This causes electrons in the gas to emit photons at UV
frequencies. The UV light is converted into standard visible light using a phosphor coating on
the inside of the tube.

Q) When voltage is applied to the fluorescent lamp, here's what happens:

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ETO ORALS QUESTIONS AND ANSWERS

A) The starter (which is simply a timed switch) allows current to flow through the filaments
at the ends of the tube.
The current causes the starter's contacts to heat up and open, thus interrupting the flow of
current. The tube lights.
Since the lighted fluorescent tube has a low resistance, the ballast now serves as a current
limiter.
When you turn on a fluorescent tube, the starter is a closed switch. The filaments at the
ends of the tube are heated by electricity, and they create a cloud of electrons inside the
tube. The fluorescent starter is a time-delay switch that opens after a second or two. When
it opens, the voltage across the tube allows a stream of electrons to flow across the tube
and ionize the mercury vapor.

Without the starter, a steady stream of electrons is never created between the two
filaments, and the lamp flickers. Without the ballast, the arc is a short circuit between the
filaments, and this short circuit contains a lot of current. The current either vaporizes the
filaments or causes the bulb to explode.

Q) What is the function of the choke?


A) The choke has two main functions. In conjunction with the starter it causes the tube to
ignite by using the back emf to create a plasma in the tube and it controls the current
through the tube when it is ignited.

Q) Where is a slip ring used and where is a commutator used?


A) Slip rings are commonly found in slip ring motors, electrical generators for alternating
current systems and alternators. They can be used on any rotating object to transfer power.
A commutator is a common feature of direct current rotating machines. By reversing the
current direction in the moving coil of a motor's armature, a steady rotating force (torque) is
produced.

Q) What is capacitance?
A) Capacitance is the ability of a body to store an electrical charge. Any body or structure
that is capable of being charged, either with static electricity or by an electric current
exhibits capacitance. C = Q/V where Q is the charge and V is the voltage

Q) Does current flow though a capacitor?


A) No. Current (or more specifically, charge) flows into one plate, and an opposing current
(charge) flows out of the other plate, but the current (except for leakage current) does not
flow across the dielectric. The result is that there is a charge differential between the plates.

DHIRAJ A. SAIJARE Page 53


ETO ORALS QUESTIONS AND ANSWERS

Q) What is the unit for capacitance ?


A) Farad

Q) What is a neutral?
A) In multiphase circuits, the conductor used to carry unbalanced current. In single-phase
systems, the conductor used for a return current path.

Q) What is the difference between neutral and earth?


A) The ground or "earth" wire is a circuit's safety protective wire that normally carries no
current. 

Q) What is a synchronous condenser?


A) A synchronous condenser is a device identical to a synchronous motor, whose shaft is not
connected to anything but spins freely.  Its purpose is not to convert electric power to
mechanical power or vice versa, but to adjust conditions on the electric power transmission
grid. Its field is controlled by a voltage regulator to either generate or absorb reactive
power as needed to adjust the grid's voltage, or to improve power factor.

Q) Where and why is it used?


A) Used for power factor correction as a synchronous capacitor.

Q) If a motor is wound star and you want to change to delta what should you do?
A) Open the terminal connection box. Remove the shorting link connecting the common
connection (star) point of A2, B2 and C2. With the 3 phase windings marked A1A2, B1B2,
C1C2, connect A2 to B1, B2 to C1 and C2 to A1.

Q) If the AVR, is defective, when additional loads come on will the generator be able to take
it?
A) No.

Q) How do you test reverse power trip, high current trip, preferential trip?
A) High current (over load trip) – Set your overload relay high current trip setting to say 75%
of the rated current. Run the motor. The relay will trip the breaker. Another way of testing it
is pushing the trip button on the relay which trips the breaker.
Preferential trip – With one generator running, try to switch on additional loads to overload
the generator. Preferential trip will trip all the non-critical loads.

DHIRAJ A. SAIJARE Page 54


ETO ORALS QUESTIONS AND ANSWERS

Q) What is residual magnetism? Where is it important?


A) Residual magnetism is a property in which certain amount of excitation remains back in
the conductor even after the removal of the magnets.
It is required as we need some magnetism to start off the generation before the field
winding has power to produce the full field.

Q) Sometimes, when you change the running direction of a E/R blower (from supply to
exhaust) it trips. Why?
A) If the flaps of the blower are not set or opened properly or the filters are clogged, the air
supply is affected and the blower may be overloaded causing it to trip.

Q) What is the regular maintenance done on batteries?


A) Every week the cell voltage is checked. The specific gravity is monitored using the battery
hydrometer. The terminals are lubricated to prevent corrosion. Sometimes load tests are
done on the batteries.

Q) What safety precautions need to be taken during maintenance on batteries?


A) The room needs to be ventilated to prevent explosions due to gases generate by the
battery. Protective clothing, gloves and eye protection should be used to prevent acid splash
over. No flames or ignition sources should be brought near batteries. Never short both
positive and negative terminals as this will cause short circuit and high energy flashover.
When disconnecting batteries, always disconnect negative terminals first and vice versa
when reconnecting.

Q) Why is special lighting used in battery rooms?


A) Spark proof lighting is used as explosive gases may be generated during battery charging
and so there should be no sparks in the room. (Exd flame proof explosion proof)

Q) What is the voltage available from each cell in a lead acid battery?
A) 2 V DC.
Q) What is the full battery voltage?
A) 24 V DC.

Q) How is this voltage achieved?


A) By connecting 12 cells in series. 12 x 2 V = 24 V is total battery bank voltage.

DHIRAJ A. SAIJARE Page 55


ETO ORALS QUESTIONS AND ANSWERS

Q) What is the meaning of a normally open contact?


A) The contact is open in the normal (de-energised condition).

Q) How does a Salinometer function?


A) It detects the salinity in parts per million (ppm) and provides a alarm signal and also
initiates a command to the bypass valve of a fresh water generator.

Q) How does the air compressor start and stop automatically?


A) The air reservoir has pressure switch which is set for cut-off and cut-in depending on the
pressure desired. When the pressure drops below the cut-in setting, the switch energises
the contactor coil and the compressor starts. When the pressure reaches the cut-off setting,
the switch opens its closed contact in series with the power circuit to contactor and cuts
supply to the contactor.

Q) How is the cold room temperature maintained?


A) The cold room has temperature switch (thermostat) which has a cut-in and cut-off
temperature setting. Depending on the setting, the compressor cuts when the temperature
rises and cuts-off when the temperature cools down to the set value.

Q) What is a self-monitoring alarm circuit?


A) Itself monitors the health of the alarm circuit. That is, it senses whether the power supply
to the alarm circuit is healthy and all the relays and contacts are functioning normally.

Q) Out at sea, if there is a black out during your watch, what action will you take?
A) After a black out the emergency generator comes on; On restoring the main supply we
are closing the circuit breaker of the main generator without bothering about synchronizing.

Q)How is this possible?


A)There is a power link connection breaker between the main generator and the emergency
generator.  During black out, this breaker trips. The emergency generator starts and its
breaker closes and feeds only the emergency loads. During restoration, the main generator
is started again and its breaker is closed. As the link breaker is still open, there is no
paralleling between main and emergency generator. 

Q) How does the emergency generator start automatically?


A) It is activated by a under voltage relay. When there is blackout, the under voltage relay
senses loss of voltage and starts up the emergency generator. Similarly when the power is
restored, the relay stops the emergency generator.

DHIRAJ A. SAIJARE Page 56


ETO ORALS QUESTIONS AND ANSWERS

Q) If all your air bottles are at low pressure and there is a blackout how do you start the
generators?
A) If main air bottles are empty, the emergency air bottle can be used to start the main
generator. If even the emergency air bottle is empty, then it can be filled by running
emergency air compressor (powered by emergency generator). Once the emergency air
bottle is filled, this air can be used to start the main generator.

Q) What is a shaft generator?


A) A shaft generator is coupled to the main engine. It uses the main engine as its prime
mover and has a frequency converter (thyristor controlled) that converts the variable engine
speed to near constant speed and produces electrical power. It can only be employed at sea
speed (full speed) and not at manoeuvring speed.

Q) Even though the main engine runs at varying speeds, how does the alternator maintain
constant frequency?
A) By use of thyristor controlled frequency (rpm) converters.

Q) Is the alternator connected star or delta


A) Normally star.

Q) Why is 440 V used for motors and 110/220 V used for lighting?
Q) Motor load currents are large.  Motors are 3-phase loads. A higher 440V voltage means
lesser current for the same power and hence losses and size of cable wires is lower. Lighting
is single phase loads and its load currents are small, hence lower voltage means less
insulation in the cable wires.

Q) For a given line voltage, four heating coils will produce maximum heat when connected
A) in Parallel

Q) The unit of absolute permittivity of a medium is-


A) Farad/ metre
Q) The unit of electric intensity is-
A) Volt/ metre

Q) In practice, earth is chosen as a place of zero electric potential because it-
A) Has almost constant potential

DHIRAJ A. SAIJARE Page 57


ETO ORALS QUESTIONS AND ANSWERS

Q) Current carried by each of the two long parallel conductors is doubled. If their separation
is also doubled, force between them is
A) Increase two fold

Q)  The direction of induced EMF can be found with the help of -


A) Lenz’s Law
A law stating that the direction of an induced current is always such as to oppose the change
in the circuit or the magnetic field that produces it.

Q) Permanent magnets are generally made of-


A) Alnico alloys

Q) The rate of rise of current through an inductive coil is maximum-


A) At the start of the current flow

Q) What is power factor?  What are the ways to improve it?*


A) Ratio of true power and apparent power.  Using capacitors and synchronous motors.

Q) What is star / delta?


A) In star VL = under root 3 V ph
In delta  VL = V ph

Q) Why is a capacitor used in single phase motors, fluorescent tube lights and electronic
circuits?
A) To provide a 90 deg phase shift to the incoming supply necessary for starting the motor.
To provide boost voltage for starting, power factor correction and to minimize

Q) What is a solenoid?
A) Single layered coil

Q) What is a photo cell?


A) A cell whose resistance varies with intensity of light.

DHIRAJ A. SAIJARE Page 58


ETO ORALS QUESTIONS AND ANSWERS

Q) What is a magnetic pick-up?


A) An electromagnet used as a speed or position sensor.

Q) What is an electric tachometer?


A) A generator producing voltage proportional to speed.

Q) What is an overload relay?


A) A safety trip for electrical equipment which carries over-rated current.
Q) What is colour code of resistors , Please explain ?
A) Colours to denote value.  In four band colour coding, the first band indicates the first
digit, the second band: the second digit and the third band: the number of zeroes.

The values are as given below:


Black : 0,  Brown : 1, Red : 2,  Orange : 3,  Yellow : 4,  Blue : 5,  Green : 6,  Violet : 7,  Grey  :
8,  White : 9.

Q) Explain what happens if a DC motor is fed with AC supply?


A) Motor will run at low speed, sparking at brushes, heat due to eddy current will finally
burn the motor.

Q) What are the basic parts of a DC motor?


A) Rotor and stator, field poles, commutator, brushes, fan impeller, bearing & housing, end
covers and name plate.

Q) What are the excitation methods used in an alternator?


A) Rotary : Using rotating diode rectifiers, primary exciter and main exciter.
Static :  Excitation given by brushes and slip rings.

Q) What are the parts of a brushless AC generator?


A) Yoke, armature, stator, rotor, primary exciter, main exciter, rotary diode rectifier
assembly, impeller, bearing & housing, end cover, terminal block, AVR.

DHIRAJ A. SAIJARE Page 59


ETO ORALS QUESTIONS AND ANSWERS

Q) What can be possible reasons for a motor failing to start?


A) No power , Fuse blown , Overload trip, contactor coil burnt , Contactors contacts bad,
control circuit relay faulty, stop switch open circuit and start switch does not operate, hold
on  contact does not make and motor burnt.

Q) Where is a rotor wound AC motor used?


A) For starting heavy torques, mostly used on portable machines and small winches.

Q) What are the differences between synchronous and induction motor?


A) Synchronous motor: Constant speed on all loads, can be operated on a wide range of
power factors, not self starting, requires dc excitation.
Induction Motor: Speed varies with load, operates on lagging power factor, self starting, no
dc excitation required.

Q) What is the specific gravity of electrolyte used in lead acid battery?


A) 1280 at full charge and 1180 at discharge.

Q) Compare between lead acid and nickel-cadmium batteries?


A) Lead acid : Dilute H2SO4, spongy and PbSO2, low efficiency, 2 volt per cell, less strong,
requires more maintenance, less efficient wrt temperature, discharges fast, low cost,
problem of sulfation.
NiCd : KOH, Ni & Cd, high efficiency, 1.2V per cell, robust, less maintenance, more efficient
wrt temp difference, retains charge for longer periods, expensive, no sulfation.
Sulfation, a build-up of lead sulfate crystals

Q) What is a current transformer and voltage transformer?


A) Current transformers used for sensing load currents and as inputs to indicating
instruments.
Voltage transformers used for step-up / step-down voltages.

Q) What are the safety precautions when working on electrical equipments?


A) Switch off power, wear proper protective clothing, safety shoes, Notice board : Do not
switch on – Men at work, stand on rubber mat, remove metal rings, watch bracelets, use
proper insulated tools, check power supply with voltmeter and double check the voltmeter
with known power supply, keep one person stand-by with proper safety gears, inform

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ETO ORALS QUESTIONS AND ANSWERS

authority and get proper work permit. In case of electrical shock, give proper first aid, check
heart beat and pulse.

Q) What is ISPS when it came into force?


A) The International Ship and Port Facility Security (ISPS) Code is an amendment to the
Safety of Life at Sea (SOLAS) Convention (1974/1988) on minimum security arrangements
for ships, ports and government agencies.
As a response to the 9/11 attacks, the International Ship and Port Security code (ISPS) came
in to force 1st July 2004.

Q) What is difference between convention and code?


A) Convention: are the set of rule which come in force after participating nation agrees.
Code: gives the detail specification of the rules to comply with convention.

Q) SOLAS requirement of AVR?


A) The emergency generator set is equipped with an electronic governor, electronic AVR

Q) Difference between static excitation and other?


A) The basic difference between static and brushless excitation is in static system all
components are solid state, no moving parts the d.c. excitation current is fed into the field
windings via carbon brushes on a pair of shaft mounted slip-rings
While in brushless system components (diode rectifier) are rotating. Brushless has a merit
that there is no brush and slip ring required as in case of static system which led to
maintenance problem.
A rotary method utilises an a.c. or d.c. exciter which is shaft-mounted and rotates with the
main generator rotor.
Rotary exciters were d.c. generators with stationary field poles, rotating armature,
commutator and brushgear.

Q) IG safety on deck?
A) Alarms in IG System
   a. Scrubber High Level
   b. Scrubber low level
   c. Deck seal High level
   d. Deck seal low level
DHIRAJ A. SAIJARE Page 61
ETO ORALS QUESTIONS AND ANSWERS

   e. High O2 Content
   f. High blower casing temp.
   g. Low lube oil pressure alarm.
   Trips in IG System
   a. High Casing Temp. trip
   b. Low lube oil pressure trip.
   c. Low/ no flow scrubber water
   d. Low / no flow deck seal water.
   e. High boiler pressure trip.
   f. Low boiler pressure trip.

Scrubbing tower: Flue gas enters the scrub tower from bottom and passes through a series
of water spray and baffle plates to cool, clean and moist the gases. The SO2 level decreases
up to 90% and gas becomes clear of soot.
Deck seal: Purpose of the deck seal is to stop the gases to return back which are coming
from the blower to cargo tanks. Normally wet type deck seals are used. A demister is fitted
to absorb the moisture carried away by the gases.
Deck isolating valve: The engine room system can be isolated fully with the deck system
with the help of this valve.
Pressure Vacuum (PV) breaker: The PV breaker helps in controlling the over or under
pressurization of cargo tanks. The PV breaker vent is fitted with flame trap to avoid fire to
ignite when loading or discharging operation is going on when in port.
Cargo tank isolating valves: A vessel has numbers of cargo holds and each hold is provided
with an isolating valve. The valve controls the flow of inert gas to hold and is operated only
by a responsible officer in the vessel.

Q) Batteries replacement procedure of plc.


A) The general rule is to replace the battery with the controller power on, this way the process is not
interrupted and no memory or data is lost.

Q) How plc is protected from electrical noise


A) Proper use of shielded cables, The use of twisted pair cables, Proper grounding, Ensure
good connections between the cabinet components, Wire routing (power cable & signal
cable away), Signal Isolation, Differential Measurements, Anti-Aliasing Filters, Special
Considerations

Q) Working of hyper mist?


A) The high-pressure water mist/fog system provides water mist protection during
emergencies to engine room areas and machinery spaces.
 Incinerator room
 Auxiliary boiler room
 Auxiliary generators

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 Main engine cylinder head platform


 Purifier room
 Inert gas generator room
 Steering gear room

A fresh water pump takes suction from fresh water tank to supply high-pressure water to
the sprinkler system. Each area is isolated by valves, which can be opened during emergency
situations involving fire. The system is kept at constant stage of readiness.

 Cooling effect (quick cooling by evaporation latent heat)


 Oxygen replacement effect (replacement of air with water vapor generated in a large
quantity, and absorption of radiation heat)
 Shut-off effect (the floating fog forming walls of water)
 Smoke eliminating effect (the floating smoke particles being adsorbed and settled by
the fog)

High-pressure water is injected through a special nozzle working within pressure range of 4


to 10 MPa , which breaks the water droplets into fine mist.
The system start select switch on the main control panel must always be set to AUTO &
MANUAL position for automatic start.
Automatic Start: Water mist system will be automatically released into the protected area
where fire is detected by the fire alarm system (both smoke and flame detectors), and an
audible and visible alarm is activated in that protected area.
Stand by for operation:
1. Sufficient water level must be retained in the fresh water tank
2. Make sure the power supply is available.
3. The fire alarm system must be in operation.
4. Drain and test valves must be closed.
5. The area around the Hyper mist water pump must be clear of any obstructions

Q) Safeties on tanker?
A) Restriction of Smoking, other Burning activities and Naked Lights
Prohibition of Using Fire except in Designated Areas and Control of Potential Ignition
Sources
Standards for Use of Private Electric Appliances and other Portable Electrical Equipment
No Wiring without Permission (Only fixed receptacles)
Closing Portholes and doors
Riveted Shoes Prohibited
Use of Body Electrostatic Discharge Plate
Control of personnel in cargo tank deck areas (PPE)
Attention to Visitors

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Precautions when storing Spontaneously Combustible Materials (oily rags well ventilated
area)
Precautions against Sparks from Funnel

Q) Exd equipments on tanker


A) The enclosure must be strong enough to withstand an internal explosion without
suffering damage.
The enclosure must prevent the flame and hot gases from being transmitted to the external
flammable atmosphere.
The external surface temperature of the enclosure must remain below the ignition
temperature of the surrounding gas under all operating conditions.
Exd: flameproof enclosure: deck light fixture, deck electrical motor, junction box, and
conduit.
Maintenance: flame path is not damaged, clean, lightly grease all flamepaths
Corrosion, missing Bolts, Ensure all mountings are secured, Cement, Ensure bolts are not
over-tightened, Remove any build-up of dust.

Q) Understanding: Protocol, Convention, code, amendment, annex


A) simpler way to understand this mess is... if ur in love with a girl and decide to marry her
then it is protocol; if ur father approves ur love and if ur marrying that girl then ur protocol
become convention( bcoz it is been ratified by ur dad). But if dad says ur wife need to give 1
lakh dowry and one car then that is code ( technical way of complying with the
convention).. nw after marriage (convention) of ur wife ask u to quit sailing to maintain with
the marriage life then that is amendment to convention; if u give birth to a child then it
becomes ur annex1 and ur second son becomes annex 2 (part of ur convention).nw the final
thing if u want to divorce that girl and get married with other girl( a major change in
convention) is also called as protocol..

Q) On delay and off delay function?


A) ON DELAY: Upon application of input voltage, the time delay (t) begins. At the end of the time
delay (t), the output is energized. Input voltage must be removed to reset the time delay relay & de-
energize the output.

OFF DELAY: Upon application of input voltage, the time delay relay is ready to accept a trigger.
When the trigger is applied, the output is energized. Upon removal of the trigger, the time delay (t)
begins. At the end of the time delay (t), the output is de-energized. Any application of the trigger
during the time delay will reset the time delay (t) and the output remains energized.

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ON/OFF DELAY: Upon application of input voltage, the time delay relay is ready to accept a trigger.
When the trigger is applied, the time delay (t1) begins. At the end of the time delay (t1), the output
is energized. When the trigger is removed, the output contacts remain energized for the time delay
(t2). At the end of the time delay (t2), the output is de-energized & the time delay relay is ready to
accept another trigger. If the trigger is removed during time delay period (t1), the output will remain
de-energized and time delay (t1) will reset. If the trigger is re-applied during time delay period (t2),
the output will remain energized and the time delay (t2) will reset.

Q) Navigation light comes under which regulation?


A) International regulations for preventing collision at Sea. Rule of Road Part C, lights and
shade Rule no. 20 to 31
Annexe I: Mast head light:- 225 deg, Side light: 112.5 deg, Stern light:-135 deg, Towing light
same as stern light, All-round light 360 degrees horizon, Flashing light at a frequency of 120/ min.

Precaution: Working aloft permit should be made. Mention weather condition in permit. All
transmitting equipments should be off. Radar scanner should be fully off. Man aloft, switch
off near scanner/AE. Air horn off and air drained personally. Other type horn (Piston) MCB
should be off and locked. Notices placed on all equipments for do not start. Wear safety
harness/ belt and go for change. One person to assist if further defects in light unit.

Q) International regulations on collision avoidance. Part D - Sound and light signals, rule no.
32 to 37
A) The term short blast means a blast of about one second's duration.
The term prolonged blast means a blast of from four to six seconds' duration.
A vessel of 12 metres or more in length shall be provided with a whistle, a vessel of 20
metres or more in length shall be provided with a bell in addition to a whistle, and a vessel
of 100 metres or more in length shall, in addition, be provided with a gong, the tone and
sound of which cannot be confused with that of the bell.

Q) Is there any specific difference in Steering motors & other motors?

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A) It will not trip on overload only give alarm. It also has phase fail alarm. Other alarms No
volt, Phase fail, Overload, Hydraulic oil tank low level.

Q) Why one steering motor is auto transformer starter?


A) To avoid current surge at starting and consume low voltage at starting, as it is fed from
emergency switchboard and might overload the emergency generator in case of black out
and / or emergency.

Q) Draw a typical circuit of the navigation light?


A) A navigation lights circuit is shown in Figure. Two sources of supply are available from the
changeover switch. A double pole switch connects the supply to each light circuit, with a
fuse in each line, A relay in the circuit will operate the buzzer if an open circuit occurs, since
the relay will de-energise and the trip bar will complete the buzzer circuit. A resistance in
series with the indicating lamp will ensure the navigation lights operate even if the
indicating lamp fails.
A main supply failure will result in all the indicating lamps extinguishing but the buzzer will
not sound. The changeover switch will then have to be moved to the alternative supply.

Q) AIS
A) AIS is fitted in accordance with SOLAS convention. It gives Ship identification, Type,
position, course and speed. AIS also given in Rules of the Road (ROR).

Q) Shaft grounding purpose & what is bedding?


A) Propeller Shaft Earthing

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When a ship's propeller shaft is rotating, the bearing lubricating oil creates an 'oil wedge'
with a high resistance. This oil electrically insulates the propeller from the hull structure and
because of the propeller's dissimilar materials, Eddie currents are generated due to the
galvanic cell, causing a static build-up. If the shaft is not earthed the static will eventually
discharge by arcing across the lubrication oil known as 'spark corrosion'. This is known to
lead to the pitting and 'stripping' of Main Engine white metal bearing surfaces. This can be
dangerous as stripping of bearings may cause 'Hot Spots', and hot spots can result in the
ignition of crankcase explosions.
Arcing is minimized when the potential between the shaft and hull is reduced to 25mV. To
prevent arcing, it is recommended to install Shaft Earthing equipment as part of the ships
Cathodic Protection system and in doing so allowing either the sacrificial anode system or
the Impressed Current system to simultaneously protect the propeller. Shaft Earthing is
approved by MAN - B&W

Bedding is a process making proper metallic contacts between two surfaces. For shaft
grounding it is between shaft and inner part of silver band.

Q) Turning gear interlock?


A) The turning gear interlock is a control valve which will not allow starting air to operate
the system when the turning gear is engaged.

Q) What is difference between purifier motors and other engine room motors?
A) Purifier room motors supply with high temp grease for lubrication.
Over current relay is by passed during starting of purifier motor. (10 minutes)
As the motor starts, the pads inside the drum moves out gradually due to centrifugal force
and cause friction in the internal wall of the drum resulting in rotation of the shaft and the
bowl gradually without overloading and damaging the motor and gears. An electric motor
will get overloaded if it is connected directly to the bowl assembly for the rotation of the
same as the complete assembly is very heavier. To avoid this, clutch or friction pads and
drum assembly are installed on the horizontal shaft.

Q) How is speed control of elevator?


A) Variable Voltage Variable Frequency VVVF Inverter Drive
AC power is first converted into DC through a converter, then DC is converted back into
three-phase AC. Voltage and frequency are varied to control rotation of the electric motor.
By controlling motor rotation speed and torque, this control method delivers superb ride
comfort and excellent landing accuracy at each floor.

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Ward-Leonard System:
This system is used where very sensitive speed control of motor is required (e.g electric
excavators, elevators etc.). M2 is the motor whose speed control is required.
M1 may be any AC motor or DC motor with constant speed. G is a generator directly coupled
to M1.In this method, the output from the generator G is fed to the armature of the motor
M2 whose speed is to be controlled. The output voltage of the generator G can be varied
from zero to its maximum value by means of its field regulator and, hence, the armature
voltage of the motor M2 is varied very smoothly. Hence, very smooth speed control of the dc
motor can be obtained by this method.

Q) What if transformer is supplied with dc source? You have output?


Q) What will happen if DC supply is given on the primary of a transformer
A) It is very simple, you will have no output. This is because a transformer works on the
principle of electromagnetic induction, which requires a voltage source that changes with
time (alternating source). Thus since a dc supply is unidirectional, the transformer cannot
work.
If the primary of a transformer is connected to the DC supply, the flux produced in the
primary will be of constant magnitude because of DC current. So no EMF will be induced in
the primary, because emf is induced only when if either the flux is changing or the
conductor is moving i.e. the emf will be induced in the winding only when if there is any
relative motion between flux and conductor. Hence no emf will be induced either in the
primary or in secondary.

Secondly, in case of AC supply, the current in the primary is given by -


               I1 = (V1 - E1) / Z1 ,  where,
             V1 = supply voltage
             E1 = emf induced in the primary and
              Z1 = impedance of primary winding

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But, when primary is fed with DC supply, then as stated above, no emf will be induced in
primary. So, E1 = 0; and Z1 = R1, where, R1 is resistance of primary winding (reactance of
the winding is zero in case of DC). So in this case the value of primary current is -
           I1 = V1 / R1 

The magnitude of this current is very high as E1 is zero and R1 is small.
So the transformer can be damaged due to this high current, if it is connected to DC supply.  
Voltage in a transformer is developed only with a frequency. Since a dc supply has a zero
frequency, voltage in a transformer will remain zero also.

Q) Corona effect?
A) Whenever the voltage passing through a conductor exceeding a certain value the air
molecules around the conductor got ionised. The ions moving in the atmosphere, they take
Energy from the supply so a hissing noise will occur. This effect is called corona effect.

Q) Why short circuit do not take place when electrode is touched to ground.
A) Basically during welding we force a short-circuit at the electrode tip. The fault condition
produces large magnitude currents. Greater the Current value have greater I2R heat
produced. The arcing energy elevates the temperature & hence melts the electrode material
over the joint.
The transformer is designed to withstand such high currents. But welding is a very complex
& detailed phenomenon. Besides there are many principles on which welding operates.
Some may be a welding, dc welding, arc, constant voltage, constant current etc

Q) Why humming sound occurred in HT transmission line?


A) Whenever the voltage passing through a conductor exceeding a certain value the air
molecules around the conductor got ionised. The ions moving in the atmosphere, they take 
energy from the supply so a hissing noise will occur. This effect is called corona effect..

Q) How to check Capacitor with use of Multi meter?


A) a) Disconnect the capacitor from the circuit it is part of.
Read the capacitance value on the outside of the capacitor. The unit for capacitance is the
farad, “F.” (Because the farad is a large unit, most capacitors measure capacitance in
microfarads; a microfarad is a millionth of a farad) (µ)

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Set your multimeter to its capacitance setting. Connect the multimeter leads to the
capacitor terminals. Connect the positive (red) multimeter lead to the capacitor anode lead
and the negative (black) lead to the capacitor cathode lead. (On most capacitors, the anode
lead is longer than the cathode lead.)

Check the multimeter reading. If the capacitance reading on the multimeter is close to the
value printed on the capacitor itself, the capacitor is good. If it’s significantly less than the
value printed on the capacitor, or zero, the capacitor is dead.

b) Using a Digital Multimeter without Capacitance Setting


Disconnect the capacitor from its circuit.
Set your multimeter to its resistance setting. This setting may be marked with the word
“OHM” (the unit for resistance) or omega (Ω). If your unit has an adjustable resistance
range, set the range to 1000 ohm = 1K or higher.
Connect the multimeter leads to the capacitor terminals. Again, connect the red lead to the
positive (longer) terminal and the black lead to the negative (shorter) terminal.
Observe the multimeter reading. Write down the initial resistance value, if you wish. The
value should soon revert to what it was before you connected the leads.

Disconnect and reconnect the capacitor several times. You should see the same results as
on the first test. If you do, the capacitor is good. If, however, the resistance value does not
change on any of the tests, the capacitor is dead.

Q) Why the capacitors work on ac only & blocks dc?


A) Capacitors oppose a change in voltage across them by either drawing in or supplying
current as they charge or discharge respectively. The flow of current through a capacitor is
thus directly proportional to the rate of change of voltage across it. This is given by the
relation, i = C x (de/dt) where de/dt is the instantaneous change in voltage.
As the voltage does not change in the case of DC, de/dt = 0 and the current that is allowed
to pass through by the capacitor is 0. For AC the voltage changes regularly. Hence here
de/dt is not 0 and a current is allowed to flow through by the capacitor.

Xc =1/ (2 pi f c) . Where Xc=capacitive reactance, f=frequency, c=capacitance and pi=3.14.

So in case of a dc frequency, (f) is zero. So reactance i.e., impedance is infinite. (According to


formula, put 0 in place of f, you get Xc = infinite). That’s why capacitor gives infinite
impedance or resistance to dc signal

Q) Can 60 Hz transformers be used at higher frequencies?


A) In transformers the higher the line frequency, the lower the core (iron) losses.
transformers are self-excited static machines, meaning the flux density B is reverse

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proportional to the line frequency, therefore Pcoreloss = kB^2*f= k*(1/f)^2*f= k/f... so the
higher f, the lower the losses. However, increasing the frequency also increases the
magnetizing inductance - lowering the magnetizing current. If you increase the frequency
you may want to increase the voltage.
It is true that the higher the frequency, the higher the hysteresis (and eddy current) losses
will be. But is it a common misconception to assume higher power losses when frequency
increases in a transformer. Simply because the hysteresis losses depends not only on
frequency, but on the max magnetic flux density as well (Bmax^2). The flux density is
reversely proportional to the line frequency, which eventually causes lower core losses as
you raise the frequency. This holds true for low and mid frequency ranges. For higher
frequencies, skin effect and eddy currents dominates, so the picture may be different.
However, iron core transformers do not operate in such high frequencies.

Q) Can 60 Hz transformers be operated at 50 Hz?


A) XL= 2pi f L, Z= under root R2+ XL2
When we decrease frequency F, inductive reactance XL decreases, when inductive reactance
decreases, impedance decrease, when impedance decrease, current increases.
So this extra current may cause copper loss and produce heat
If we install an additional current limiter device in series with winding by which we can
increase impedance to reduce this extra current. Then we can use a 60 Hz transformer on 50
Hz ac supply.
A 50 Hz transformer can run on 60 Hz with no ill effects. But a supply frequency lower than
the rated frequency has the same effect as an overvoltage.
Therefore running a transformer at a frequency lower than its design rating can cause
damage to the transformer. 60Hz transformers are smaller and less expensive than 50/60Hz
transformers. Since a 60Hz transformer has 20% higher rated power than a 50Hz
transformer of the same size and weight. The design construction of a 50Hz transformer is
usually larger than that of the 60Hz.

Q) Can transformers be used in parallel?


A) Single phase transformers can be used in parallel only when their voltages are equal. If
unequal voltages are used, a circulating current exists in the closed network between the
two transformers which will cause excess heating (increase losses) and result in a shorter
life of the transformer. In addition impedance values of each transformer must be within
7.5% of each other.
Two or more transformers may be connected in parallel. But various conditions that must
be fulfilled for the successful parallel operation of transformers:

Same voltage Ratio & Turns Ratio (both primary and secondary Voltage Rating is same).
Same Percentage Impedance and X/R ratio.

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Identical Position of Tap changer.


Same KVA ratings.
Same Phase angle shift (vector group are same).
Same Frequency rating.
Same Polarity.
Same Phase sequence.

Q) Can single phase transformers be used for three phase applications?


A) Yes. Three single phase transformers can be used in delta connected primary and delta
connected secondary. The equivalent three phase capacity when properly connected of
three single phase transformers is three times the nameplate rating of each single phase
transformer.

*The Current Transformer ( C.T. ), is a type of “instrument transformer” that is designed to


produce an alternating current in its secondary winding which is proportional to the current
being measured in its primary.

Q) Why shorting type terminal required for Current Transformer? Or during removal of
ammeter?
A) During maintenance secondary side of CT need to bypass for that you need shorting link.
During secondary injection you will short circuit the main CT & bypass it. Open circuiting the
CT will saturate it & damage it.

Q) Why fuse is given for only Potential Transformer or voltage transformer and not for
Current Transformer?
A) If fuse is given for CT, it will blows off during fault condition and rather than protecting
the CT it will make it open circuited hence it will be saturated & damaged. For PT it gives
overload & Short circuit protection.

Q) What is accuracy Class of the instrument?


A) The professional measuring devices are labelled for the class of accuracy. This figure is
the percentage of the inherent error of the measuring device with respect to full scale
deflection. For example, if the class of accuracy is 2 that means an error of 2 volts in a full
scale 100 volt reading.

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Q) Why we use a resistance to ground the neutral when we need always low resistivity for
the grounding?
A) If we ground the generator directly then whenever a fault will take place at any phase
with ground the fault current flowing throw the faulted phase-to ground-to neutral will be
very high cause there will be no resistance to limit the value of fault current. Hence we
insert a resistance in the neutral circuit to limit this fault current. Also we need to reduce
the fault current to such a value that the protection CTs are able to identify the fault current
without saturating the CTs. Communicate it to the protection relays

Q) Why are Neutral Ground Resistor’s rated for 10sec?


A) NGR are placed in the neutral circuit & hence will be energized only in the fault
conditions thus their continuous loading is not expected. Hence they are selected for
intermittent rating. Similarly when we place a transformer in the neutral grounding circuit
the KVA rating obtained after the calculation is multiplied by a diversity factor to obtain
smaller rating cause the therefore It will not be continuously rated.
NIS is also provided to cut the circulating negative sequence current in 2 more generators
connected in parallel. in some grid conditions they ask to keep neutral isolated after being
connected to grid.

Q) Which is supply system is more lethal / dangerous AC or DC?


A) Alternating current and Direct current have slightly different effects on the human body,
but both are dangerous above a certain voltage. The effect on a particular person is very
difficult to predict as it depends upon a large number of factors - amount of current,
duration of flow, pathway of current, voltage applied and impedance of the human body.
Having said that, I would rate AC as more dangerous owing to the following reasons,
More DC current is required to induce the same harmful effects as AC current.
Accidents with DC are much less frequent
The probability of a human suffering from Ventricular Fibrillation is much higher in the case
of AC than DC.
Since the impedance for DC is higher, the severity of electric shock would be comparatively
lesser than AC.
It's comparatively easier to let go of the gripped 'live' parts in the case of DC than AC.
AC is RMS, so peak valve = under root 2 rms.
Q) Why we ground the sheath of single core power cables and to avoid grounded at both
the ends?
A) A single core cable with sheath is nothing but a conductor carrying current surrounded by
another conductor, hence alternative current in the conductor induces voltage in the
sheath. Hence grounding these cables at both ends will cause the potential of the sheath to
be same as ground potential and hence shall become safe for the personnel. But grounding
the cable at both ends will cause problem. In that case the circulating current will start

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flowing with the sheath, the ground and with the two ends of the grounding completing the
circuit. This will also provide path for the fault current to flow. Hence the whole thing will
cause the cable to produce some I2R losses, hence heating and hence the current carrying
capacity will be de-rated.

Q) Difference between CT class 0.2 and 0.2S?


A) For 0.2 Class specified accuracy is 'defined' between 5% to 120% of rated current,
whereas for 0.2 S the accuracy is provided between 1% to 120% of rated current. At these
secondary current ranges, accuracy is applicable when the burden is between 25% to 100%.

Q) AVR magnetic amplifier and SCR control?


A) The voltage sensing unit transforms down, rectifies and smooth’s the generator output
voltage. This produces a low voltage dc signal that is proportional to the AC generator
voltage. This actual dc signal is compared with a set dc value produced by a reference circuit
of zener diodes and resistors. An error signal output from the comparator is then amplified
and made suitable for driving the field circuit regulating thyristor(s). A thyristor is a fast-
acting electronic switch controlled by a voltage signal at its gate terminal. This device
rectifies and regulates the generator field current.

Q) E/R crane how load not falling down when push button is released?
A) The most important safety feature of the crane is the electromagnetic fail safe brakes
which do not allow the crane to fall with the load even when there is failure of power. For
this. Normally centrifugal brakes are used which are fitted inside the rotating drum. The
brake pads are always in applied state and pushed by magnetic springs when not in
operation or when there is a power failure.

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As the crane is operated or the power is supplied, the spring gets pulled inward or
compressed due to the electromagnetic effect of the current. This allows the crane to be
operated normally.

Q) Ballast pump motor cannot start when start button is pressed how u will solve?
A) Check pump discharge valve and suction valve open or not, Suction presssure switch,
motor emergency stop push button, Generator load (heavy load interlock), overload trip,
check pump control local / remote mode.

Q) Co2 release door is opened alarm started but fans didnot trip what can be the reason?
A) door limit switch/ micro switch stuck, trip wire bypassed, fan cricuit breaker shunt trip
fail, open proper cabinet door.

Q)Marpol annexes
A) Annex I prevention of pollution by oil & oily water
Annex II control of pollution by noxious liquid substances in bulk
Annex III prevention of pollution by harmful substances carried by sea in packaged
form
Annex IV pollution by sewage from ships
Annex V pollution by garbage from ships
Annex VI Prevention of air pollution from ships

Q) Catagories of garbage?
A) Garbage Record Book, Description of the garbage
The garbage is to be grouped into categories for the purposes of this record book as follows:
1 Plastics
2 Floating dunnage, lining, or packing material
3 Ground-down paper products, rags, glass, metal, bottles, crockery, etc.
4 Cargo residues, paper products, rags, glass, metal, bottles, crockery, etc.
5 Food waste
6 Incinerator ash except from plastic products which may contain toxic or
heavy metal residues.
The discharge of any garbage other than food waste is prohibited in special areas.

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The special areas established under Annex V are:


the Mediterranean Sea area
the Baltic Sea area
the Black Sea area
the Red Sea area
the Gulfs area
the North Sea area
the Wider Caribbean Region and
the Antarctic area.

Q) Crane safeties
A) Lifting limit switch, Lowering limit switch, Forward travel limit switch, Aft travel limit
switch, Port travel limit switch, Starboard travel limit switch
Brakes are very important In case of power failure
Emergency stop location and operation
The up and down travel of the hook is also attaches with automatic stopper to avoid
overloading of the motor.
The motor is fitted with distance limit switch in both transverse and longitudinal direction so
that the travel of the trolley and hence crane should not overshoot the rack’s end.
Mechanical stoppers are provided for both directions in case the electrical distance limit
trips fail.
The motor is fitted with thermal protection trip. When the motor windings get overheated,
trip will activate saving the motor winding from burning.
Load limit switch is also fitted which will trip the motor if the load to be lifted is above the
crane capacity.

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ETO ORALS QUESTIONS AND ANSWERS

Q) Generator not building voltage what to check?


A) No residual magnetism: The start of the build up process requires some residual
magnetism in the magnetic circuit of a generator. If there is little or no residual magnetism,
because of inactivity or jarring in shipment, no voltage will be generated that can produce
field current.
· Field connection reversed: The voltage generated due to residual magnetism is applied to
the field and current flows in such a direction as to produce lines of flux in the same
direction as the residual flux. If the field connections are reversed, the lines of flux produced
by the current flow will oppose the residual flux so that the generated voltage will decrease
rather than increase.

· Field circuit resistance too high: If the field circuit resistance is greater than the critical
resistance then this prevents voltage build up.

· Open field circuit connection: The effects of an open circuit are apparent. The field-circuit
resistance is much greater than the critical value, hence the generator will not build up.

Q) How to take generator insulation?


A) Insulation testing should only be performed when units stop, starting block applied,
circuit breaker open and lock out done, apply earth.
Be sure the AVR and any other electronic components are disconnected before performing
insulation resistance testing.
Short-circuit all outgoing cable terminals during the IR test
Remove electronic card(s)
Disconnect all cables at both ends and test separately
Before applying an IR test to HV equipment its power supply must be switched off, isolated,
confirmed dead by an approved live-line tester and then earthed for complete safety.

The correct procedure is to connect the IR tester to the circuit under test with the safety
earth connection ON. This is to ensure that the operator never touches a unearthed
conductor. With the IR tester now connected, the safety earth is disconnected. Now the IR
test is applied and recorded. The safety earth is now reconnected before the IR tester is
disconnected. This safety routine must be applied for each separate IR test.

Q) What is use of preferential trip?

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A) Preferential trip is a kind of electrical arrangement on ship which is designed to


disconnect the non-essential circuit i.e. non-essential load from the main bus bar in case of
partial failure or overload of the main supply
The non-essential circuits or loads on ships are air conditioning, exhaust and ventilation
fans, and galley equipments which can be disconnected momentarily and can be connected
again after fault finding. The main advantage of preferential trip is that it helps in preventing
the operation of main circuit breaker trip and loss of power on essential services and thus
prevents blackout and overloading of generator.
Construction and Working
The preferential trip circuit consists of an electromagnetic coil and a dashpot arrangement
to provide some delay to disconnect the non-essential circuits. Along with this, there is also
an alarm system provided, which functions as soon as an overload is detected and trips start
operating. There are some mechanical linkages also in the circuit which instantaneously
operates the circuit and completes the circuit for preferential trips.
The dashpot arrangement consists of a small piston with a small orifice and which is placed
inside a small cylinder assembly. This piston moves up against the fluid silicon and the time
delay is governed by the orifice in the piston.
Working of Preferential Trip
The current passes through the electromagnetic coil and the linkages are kept from
contacting using a spring arrangement. As soon as the current value increases the limit, the
electromagnetic coil pulls the linkage up against the spring force and operates the
instantaneous circuit and the alarm system. The lower linkage completes the circuit for the
preferential trip circuit.
The current passes through the coil in the preferential trip circuit which pulls the piston in
the dashpot arrangement. The movement of this piston is governed by the diameter of the
orifice and the time delay made by the same. The preferential trip operates at 5, 10 and 15
seconds and the load is removed accordingly. If the overload still persists, then an audible
and visual alarm is sounded.
The preferential trip is one of those important electrical circuit diagrams which help in
removing the excessive load from the main bus bar, thus preventing situation like blackout
which is a dangerous incident to ship, especially when the ship is sailing in restricted or
congested waters.

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Q) Power Management System PMS


A) Power Management System PMS is in charge of controlling the electrical system. Its task
is to make sure that the electrical system is safe and efficient. If the power consumption is
larger than the power production capacity, load shedding is used to avoid blackout. Other
features could be to automatic start and stop diesel generators as the load varies.
Power management system (PMS) under computer control.
PMS functions are Control of:
Automatic power limitation for propulsion motors
Auto-start, synchronising and load sharing of standby generators
Control of re-generation from the propulsion motors during braking and
Reversing manoeuvres
Power limitation for main generators
Load shedding by preferential tripping
Dynamic limitation of propulsion motor acceleration
Monitoring of:
Load sharing
Diesel performance
Proposal to start/stop a generator
Running time for generators and Propulsion motors
Status and data display

Q) PMS and routines for motors and explain. How and why?
A) Planned maintenance (preventive maintenance) is when equipment is regularly inspected
and maintained according to a fixed timetable and set of procedures specifying the actual
work to be done to prevent equipment failure.
The maintenance requirements for cage-rotor induction motors are very simple:
Keep insulation resistance high and contact resistance low
Lubricate bearings correctly / periodically.
Ensure both the interior and exterior of motor are always clean and dry
Motor Starter maintenance, motor megger test, contact tightness, check for sign of
overheating and abnormal noise or vibration.

Q) ACB Woking and arcing?


A) The main function of air circuit breaker is to:

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– Open and close a 3 phase circuit, manually or automatically.


– Open the circuit automatically when a fault occurs. Faults can be of various types – under
or over voltage, under or over frequency, short circuit, reverse power, earth fault etc.
– The main feature of ACB is that it dampens or quenches the arcing during overloading.

Air Circuit Breaker (ACB) Construction & Working

ACB has two sets of contacts i.e. main and auxiliary contacts. Each set of contact consists of
a fixed contact and a moving contact. The main contact normally carries most of the load
current. All the contacts are made of cadmium-silver alloy which has very good resistance to
damage by arcing.

When the ACB is closed, the powerful spring is energized and the ACB is than latched shut
against spring pressure. The auxiliary contact makes first & breaks last i.e. when ACB is
closed, the auxiliary contact closes first then the main contact follows.

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When the ACB is open, the main contact open firsts and then auxiliary contact opens. Thus
the auxiliary contacts are subjected to arcing during the opening of ACB and can easily be
replaced.
The main contact closing pressure is kept high so that the temperature rise in the contacts
while carrying current remains within limit. Closing coil operating on D.C voltage from a
rectifier is provided to close the circuit breaker by operating a push button.

Q) How Arc Quenching is achieved?


A) Quenching of arc is achieved by:
1. Using arcing contacts made of resistance alloy and silver tips for the main contacts. Arcing
contacts close earlier and opens later than the main contacts.
2. When opening contacts have long travelled at high speed to stretch the resultant arc,
which is transferred to the arcing contact.
3. Cooling and splitting of the arc is done by arc chutes which draw the arc through splitters
by magnetic action and quickly cool and split the arc until it snaps. The circuit breaker opens
when the arc is quenched.

Q) From dead ship how will load explain?


A) Manual process is totally different from the automatic start system. The following steps
need to be followed:
Check that all the necessary valves and lines are open and no interlock is active on the
generator before operating.
Generally before starting the generator the indicator cocks are opened and small air kick is
given with the help of the starting lever. After this, the lever is brought back to the zero
position, which ensures there is no water leakage in the generator. The leakage can be from
cylinder head, liner or from the turbocharger.
The step is performed by putting the control to local position and then the generator is
started locally.
In case any water leakage is found, it is to be reported to a senior officer or chief engineer
and further actions are to be taken.
It is to note that this manual starting procedure is not followed generally on Ums ships, but
it is a common procedure on manned engine room.
In engine rooms, which have water mist fire fighting system installed, this procedure is not
followed because when the engine is given a manual kick with open indicator cocks, small
amount of smoke comes out of the heads which can lead to false fire alarm, resulting in
release of water mist in the specified area.
After checking the leakage, in case of any, the indicator cocks are closed and generator is
started again from the local panel.
The generator is then allowed to run on zero or no load condition for some time for about 5
minutes.

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After this the generator control is put to the remote mode.


If the automation of the ship is in working after putting in remote mode the generator will
come on load automatically after checking voltage and frequency parameters.
If this doesn’t happen automatically, then one has to go to the generator panel in Engine
control room and check the parameters.
The parameters checked are voltage and the frequency of the incoming generator.
The frequency can be increased or decreased by the frequency controller or governor
control on the panel.
The incoming generator is checked in synchroscope to see if it’s running fast or slow, which
means if frequency is high or low.
In synchroscope, it is checked that the needle moves in clockwise and anticlockwise
direction.
Clockwise direction means it is running fast and anti-clockwise means it is running slow.
Generally the breaker is pressed when the needle moves in clockwise direction very slowly
and when it comes in 11’o clock position.
This process is to be done in supervision of experienced officer if someone is doing for the
first time, for if this is done incorrectly the blackout can happen which can lead to
accidents, if the ship is operating in restricted areas.
Once this is done, the generator load will be shared almost equally by the number of
generators running.
After this the parameters of the generator are checked for any abnormalities.
Then Load up essential service one by one.

Q) Function of IGBT in cyclo converter.


A) AC to AC cycloconverter
a cycloconverter is restricted to a much lower range. This is limited to less than one third of
the supply frequency (e.g. up to 20 Hz) which is due to the way in which this type of
converter produces the AC output voltage waveform. Power regeneration from the motor
back into the main power supply is available. By connecting two similar converters back-to-
back in each line an AC output frequency is obtained. The switching pattern for the
thyristors varies over the frequency range which requires a complex computer program for
converter control. cycloconverter together with an approximate voltage waveform for the
low frequency output. The corresponding current waveform shape will be more sinusoidal
due to the smoothing effect of motor and line inductance. The output voltage has a
significant ripple content which gets larger (worse) as the output frequency is raised and it is
this feature that limits the maximum useful frequency. There is no connection between the
three motor windings because the line converters have to be isolated from each other to
operate correctly to obtain line commutation (natural) switching of the thyristors. The
converters may be directly supplied from the HV line but it is more usual to interpose step-
down transformers. This reduces the motor voltage and its required insulation level while

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also providing additional line impedance to limit the size of prospective fault current and
harmonic voltage distortion at the main supply bus-bar.

Q) Fresh water generator Salino meter how it conducts?


A) Working Principle of Salinometer
The electrical supply to the salinometer must be DC. The potentiometer is provided to give a
fixed standard calibration voltage so that no errors to voltage differences exist.

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Pure water is non-conducting so that current flow is an indication of impurities, i.e. the
greater the current the greater the impurity in the water. Figure below shows a salinometer
usually found with a freshwater generator.

When the impurity content exceeds a fixed value the current is sufficient to operate the
relay 2 so giving visual or audible warning by closing the circuit. Continued operation at
increased current would cause Relay 1 to short circuit the meter and so protect it.
Water temperature increases conductivity so that temperature compensation is required. A
temperature compensating thermometer is a shunt across the meter. Temperature increase
causes a rise of mercury level and a cutting out of resistance which allows more current
through the shunt and less through the meter. The correct calibration current through the
meter is fixed; current variations due to temperature are shunted.

Q) Do you know a generator fixed inside main engine turbo charger using IGBT?
A) Advance hybrid marine turbocharger technology for the main engine.
The hybrid unit has been designed to meet the vessel’s at-sea electrical power needs by
utilising the exhaust gas from the main engine not only for driving the turbocharger

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compressor but also for power generation. The concept promises overall savings in fuel
consumption and associated CO2 emissions.
The maximum power output of 754kW (at 9,500rpm). Since the generated output power is a
high frequency three-phase alternating current (AC), this is first rectified into direct current
(DC) and thereafter converted to the appropriate voltage and frequency for the shipboard
consumers. To accomplish this, the system utilises an IGBT (insulated gate bipolar transistor)
for active rectification, as well as an inverter. Since these two elements also function in
reverse, power from the ship can be supplied to the generator, so that it acts as a motor to
accelerate the turbocharger rotor.
The new system accordingly has the further advantage of permitting the generator to
function as a motor to add power to the turbocharger when the engine speed is low,
thereby serving as a substitute for an auxiliary blower. Turbocharging performance can
thereby be improved at part-load.

Q) Defrosting cycle in fridge system how it works?


A) The heart of the defrost system is the defrost control. The most common control is a
mechanical defrost timer which is a motorized device that opens and closes several
electrical contacts. one connects the defrost heater circuit, another connects the cooling

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system. When one of these is switched on, the other is switched off. A motor on the timer
turns a cam that opens and closes these contacts at set intervals

Cooling Cycle
During the cooling mode, the defrost timer closes a contact to the compressor circuit so it
will run. The circuit to the defrost heater is open.
While in this mode, the thermostat (cold control) cycles the compressor and fan motors on
and off to maintain an appropriate temperature.

Defrost Cycle
The defrost timer eventually switches into defrost mode and supplies power to the defrost
heater(s) to melt any frost that has accumulated on the evaporator (cooling) coil.
The cold control contacts remain closed but since the defrost timer is no longer feeding
power to that circuit, the compressor does not run.
Once the defrost termination thermostat (defrost limit switch) senses a set temperature, it
opens the circuit to the defrost heaters, shutting them off. The timer remains in the defrost
cycle until the timer advances back to the cooling mode. Since the limit switch is open, the
heaters are no longer on for the rest of the cycle.
When the timer again advances back into the cooling mode, the compressor will start to run
along with circulation fans.

Q)What is Explosion proof means?


A) Type 'd' protection, code Exd, uses a flameproof enclosure to contain the electrical
apparatus. The internal apparatus may include parts which arc and surfaces which become
hot. Gas may be inside the enclosure so it must fulfil three conditions:
The enclosure must be strong enough to withstand an internal explosion without suffering
damage.
The enclosure must prevent the flame and hot gases from being transmitted to the external
flammable atmosphere.
The external surface temperature of the enclosure must remain below the ignition
temperature of the surrounding gas under all operating conditions.

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Q) What is voltage & current of intrinsically safe equipments?


A) Less than 30V & 50mA ( In some cases max current may be 30mA)

Q. What is Hazardous area?


A) Hazardous areas ashore are classified into zones which indicate the probability
of an explosive gas-air mixture being present and, therefore, the likelihood of an explosion
occurring.
* Zone 0
In which an explosive gas-air mixture is continuously present, or present for long periods.
Like Interior spaces of oil cargo tanks, pipes, pumps, etc.
* Zone 1
In which an explosive gas-air mixture is likely to occur in normal operation.
Like enclosed or semi-enclosed spaces on the deck of a tanker, the boiler firing area on a gas
carrier using methane boil-off as a fuel and battery rooms
* Zone 2
In which an explosive gas-air mixture is not likely to occur in normal operation and, if it
occurs, will exist for only a short time.
Like open spaces on the deck of a tanker

The cargo pump rooms of tankers are considered as falling between Zone 0 and Zone 1.
Area which is not classified Zone 0, 1 or 2 is assumed to be a non-hazardous or safe area.

Q) How explosion meter, Oxygen meter, Hydrocarbon meters works?


A) Explosimeter is device that is used to determine the content of hydrocarbon in the
atmosphere of pump room or tank spaces on ships. The scale as a percentage of the lower
limit (LEL). The scale may also be marked in parts per million (p.p.m).
Explisometer works on the principle of Wheatstone bridge. The Wheatstone bridge is
supplied with a battery and there is no flow of current through the meter when the bridge
resistance is balanced. One of the four resistances in the Wheatstone bridge is a hot
filament. This resistance is enclosed in a chamber wherein a sample is drawn with the help
of flexible tube and aspirator.
The combustion of the atmospheric sample takes place in the chamber in the presence of
hot filament. The combustion of the gas drawn from the atmosphere causes an increase in
the temperature, which further causes changes in resistance and imbalance in the
Wheatstone bridge. Due to this imbalance, current flows through the meter and the reading
is calibrated to indicate in percentage of LEL or P.P.M.

Measurement of Combustible Gases

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Catalytic sensors represent a large number of gas detector devices that are manufactured
today. This technology is used to detect combustible gases such as hydrocarbon, and works
via catalytic oxidation. The sensors of this type of detector are typically constructed from a
platinum treated wire coil. As a combustible gas comes into contact with the catalytic
surface, it is oxidized and the wiring resistance is changed by heat that is released. A bridge
circuit is typically used to indicate the resistance change.

Infrared sensors or IR detectors work via a system of transmitters and receivers to detect
combustible gases, specifically hydrocarbon vapors. Typically, the transmitters are light
sources and receivers are light detectors. If a gas is present in the optical path, it will
interfere with the power of the light transmission between the transmitter and receiver. The
altered state of light determines if and what type of gas is present.

IR Sensors work by using a specific light sensor to detect a select light wavelength in the
Infra-Red (IR) spectrum. By using an LED which produces light at the same wavelength as
what the sensor is looking for, you can look at the intensity of the received light. When an
object is close to the sensor, the light from the LED bounces off the object and into the light
sensor. This results in a large jump in the intensity, which we already know can be detected
using a threshold.

Oxygen meter
The main property of oxygen which helps in its detection and measurement of its
percentage in the given sample of air is that of Para-magnetism. Basically this means that
oxygen gets attracted towards a magnetic field.
There are two platinum resistance wires which are exposed to two different chambers. In
the first chamber there is the air in which the oxygen content needs to be monitored plus
there is an artificially created magnetic field, while the second chamber there is the same air
but there is no magnetic field present in this chamber. The wires form a part of the
Wheatstone bridge circuit and the Wheatstone bridge is used to measure an unknown
resistance by obtaining a balance between two legs of the circuit.
The air whose content has to be noted is supplied at one end and is filtered by passing it
through a diffuser and goes on to the two chambers. Hence while one chamber of the meter
attracts oxygen the reference chamber attracts only air. This causes a difference in the
temperature of the two wire sets because of the difference in thermal conductivity of
oxygen with respect to air. This causes imbalance in the resistance of the bridge legs and the
degree of this imbalance is in proportion to the oxygen content in the sample to be
measured.

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Q) Why Refer and AC compressor is connected to motor through belt and in case of main air
compressor it is directly attached through coupling & not through belt?
A) To avoid damage of refer compressor in case of fault. Also avoid mixing of gas and Lub Oil
in refer compressor. Air compressor the load is too high & belts might slip more. Also it
requires to build up pressure faster for various M/E requirements.

Q) Why Relief v/v is provided in condenser?


A) Refrigerant side pressure might damage the tubes of condenser. Or if gas is not
passing through expansion valve, pressure might increase.

Q) Is there any regulation about air compressors - time required to fill the Air Bottles?
A) Two or more compressors shall be installed with a total capacity sufficient for charging
the air receivers from atmospheric to full pressure in the course of one (1) hour.
Each compressor must be able to press up Air receiver from 15 bars to 25 bars in 30
minutes.
Two air receivers must to be provided. Total air receiver capacity is to be sufficient for
Twelve (12) starts of Reversible engines and six (6) starts for non- reversible engines.

Q) Types of evaporators in refrigeration system?


A) In the large refrigeration and air conditioning plants the evaporator is used for chilling the
water. In such cases shell and tube type of heat exchangers are used as the evaporators. In
such plants the evaporators or the chillers are classified as:

1) Dry expansion type of evaporators

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2) Flooded type of the evaporators

In case of the dry expansion type of chillers or evaporators the expansion valve controls the
flow of the refrigerant to the evaporators. The expansion valve allows the flow of the
refrigerant depending on the refrigeration load. In case of the shell and tube type of
evaporators the refrigerant flows along the tube side, while the substance to be chilled
(usually water or brine) flows along the shell side.
In case of the flooded the evaporator is filled with the refrigerant and constant level of the
refrigerant is maintained inside it. In these evaporators or the chillers the refrigerant is
along shell side while the substance to be chilled or freezer flows along the tube side of the
heat exchanger.

Q) Explain principle of refrigeration?


A) The principle of refrigeration is to remove heat from one area (i.e. inside your fridge) and
locate it to another area (i.e. outside of your fridge).
Air is not brought in from the outside of the fridge the heat is absorbed by the evaporator
inside the fridge which has refrigerant inside it, this refrigerant at low pressure is at low
temperature inside the evaporator so the heat from the product inside the fridge is
absorbed by the evaporator (as heat always transfers from the hotter object to the colder
object) which has a fan to circulate the air around the fridge.

Then the refrigerant is pushed around the pipe work by the compressor to the condenser
where the refrigerant is hot from the heat out of the fridge, because the outside air will be
lower than that of the pressurized refrigerant the heat is absorbed by the ambient air which
leaves the refrigerant cooler and lower pressure so when its back into the evaporator it can
absorb more heat and expel it into the ambient air.

There are 5 main components in a normal refrigeration system like on your fridge:-
Compressor
Condenser
Expansion Device or Capillary tube
Evaporator
Thermostat

The compressor compresses the refrigerant gas. This raises the refrigerant's pressure and
temperature, so the heat- exchanging coils outside the refrigerator allow the refrigerant to
dissipate the heat of pressurization. As it cools, the refrigerant condenses into liquid form
and flows through the expansion valve.

Q) ME Trips

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A) Lube oil pressure trip, Cam shaft and governor oil low pressure trip, Over


speed trip, piston cooling oil high temp trip, Turbocharger cooling water high temp
Trip, Turbocharger lube oil low pressure trip, Control air LP trip,

Alarms
Cooling water High temperature alarm, Jacket cooling water low pressure alarm, Air
cooler high temperature alarm, Fuel oil high temp, Fuel oil Low pressure, Expansion tank
low level alarm, Control air is also used for stopping the engine, Thrust bearing high temp
trip, Jacket cooling water high temp alarm, High exhaust alarm, High scavenge air temp
alarm and slow down, Oil Mist Detector alarm and slow down crankcase relief valve,
Thrust bearing high temp alarm

Alarms in Boiler
    a. Low water level Alarm
    b. Too low water level alarm.
    c. High water level alarm
    d. High fuel oil temp. alarm.
    e. Low fuel oil temp. alarm
     f. Low boiler pressure alarm.

Trips in Boiler
     a. Low Low level water trip
     b. High boiler pressure trip.
     c. Flame failure
     d. Low fuel oil pressure trip.

Q) Marine radar antenna mostly used is X & S band


X band :
Frequency range: 8 - 12 G Hz
Wavelength range: 2.5 - 3.75 cm
X band radar scanner is smaller than s band
S band :
Frequency range : 2 - 4 GHZ
Wavelength range: 7.5 - 15 cm
The smallest Furuno S-band antenna is 9 feet long and can be as long as 12 feet.

Q) HV safeties?
A) Working on HV equipment should be trained, certified and qualified person
Approved safety clothing, footwear, eye protection and hard hat should be used
The access to HV switchboards and equipment must be strictly controlled by using a permit-
to-work scheme

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Isolation procedures together with live-line tests and earthing-down before any work is
started.
Planned maintenance task has to discussed, prepared and approved by the authorising
officer to be carried out by the responsible person.
The next section is a risk assessment declaring where electrical isolation and earthing has
been applied and where danger/caution notices have been displayed.
Before earthing-down the particular circuit or equipment declared in the EPTW it must be
tested and proved dead after disconnection and isolation. This can only be carried out by
using an approved live-line tester
For extra confidence and operator safety, additional earthing can be connected local to the
work task with approved portable earthing straps and an insulated extension tool,
Don't work alone - in the event of an emergency another person's presence may be
essential.
Don't wear any jewellery or other articles that could accidentally contact circuitry and
conduct current, or get caught in moving parts.
Have a fire extinguisher rated for electrical fires readily accessible in a location that won't
get blocked should something burst into flames.

Q) Strain gauge?
A) A resistive pressure transducer has strain gauge or embedded into the surface of the
diaphragm so that any change in the pressure will cause a change in electrical resistance of
strain gauge. This resistance change, usually measured using a Wheatstone bridge, is related
to the strain by the quantity known as the gauge factor.

Q) Which are Gyro three freedoms?


A) Freedom to spin- rotating direction, Freedom to tilt- turn on horizontal axis, Freedom to
drift- above vertical axis.

Q) How to check OWS, and OMD?


A) Regarding ows testing: It works on principle of photocell which utilizes a photo sensor
that measure amount of light hitting on it. When oil sediments travels between the light and
photo sensor, it reduces the amount of light hitting the sensor and cause the monitor to
display a ppm of contaminate in the water. 15ppm alarm system normally used in
connection to monitor the oil contents in the bilge water and stopping the discharge into
the sea when the oil contents exceeds 15ppm. According to Marpol Annexe-1. Ship of more
than 400 gross tonnages and above must be fitted with oily water separator
This oil mist reduces the flash point of the oil, allowing it to catch fire in presence of a hot
spot
The arrangement of OMD consists of two tubes of equal sizes. Both these tubes are places
parallel to each other. At one end of each tube, a photo-electric cell is fixed. Photo-electric

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cells generate an electric current when light falls on their surface. The amount of electric
current generated is directly proportional to the intensity of light falling on it. The other
ends of both the tubes are sealed by fitting lens that allow light to pass through them.
Equal intensity of light is reflected on the photo-electric cells using a lamp. Light passes
through the lenses after being reflected by mirrors. One of the tubes has an inlet and outlet
connection for introducing oil mist.

Q) What is the normal IG deck pressure maintained in the cargo tanks?


A) 700 to 800 mm of Water Column

Q) What is the low pressure setting for IG and what happens if there is a low pressure?
A) Low pressure alarm is at 200 mm of Water Column. Low low pressure trip is at 100 mm of
Water Column. At this pressure cargo pumps are tripped.

Q) What is high pressure setting?


A) When IG pressure reaches 1200 to 1300 mm of Water Column, recirculation valve for IG
opens.

Q) What is pv valve lift setting?


A) Pressure vacuum valve operates at 1400 mm of Water Column and at a vacuum of -250
mm of Water Column.
Q) What is pv breaker lift setting?
A) PV breaker operates at 1600 to 1800 mm of Water Column and at a vacuum of -400 mm
of Water Column.

Q) How much pressure a cargo tank can withstand?


A) Cargo tank is normally tested to a positive pressure of 2500 mm of Water Column and
negative pressure of -750 mm of Water Column.

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Q) MARPOL VI explain?
A) The main changes to MARPOL Annex VI are a progressive reduction globally in emissions
of SOx, NOx and particulate matter and the introduction of emission control areas (ECAs) to
reduce emissions of those air pollutants further in designated sea areas.
Under the revised MARPOL Annex VI, the global sulphur cap will be reduced from current
3.50% to 0.50%, effective from 1 January 2020, subject to a feasibility review to be
completed no later than 2018. The limits applicable in ECAs for SOx and particulate matter
were reduced to 0.10%, from 1 January 2015.

Q) NOx side effects remedy?


A) Through chemical reactions in the air, SO2 and NOx is converted into fine particles,
sulphate and nitrate aerosols. In addition to the particles directly emitted by ships such as
black carbon, these secondary particles increase the health impacts of shipping pollution.
Tiny airborne particles are linked to premature deaths. The particles get into the lungs and
are small enough to pass through tissues and enter the blood. They can then trigger
inflammations which eventually cause heart and lung failures. Ship emissions may also
contain carcinogenic particles.

Using low sulphur fuels


Gas engines
Shore-side electricity: can be used while ships are at the port and could cut SO2, NOx and
other PM emissions by up to 90%.
Alternative energy sources: Experiments with wind and solar power, biofuels and fuel cells
are ongoing and could be useful in the future.

Q) OMDC explain
A) Oil Discharge monitoring and control system (ODMCS) is used to prevent the pollution of
ocean by oil due to the discharge from ballast and bilge spaces.
As per MARPOL 73/78 Annex I, all the oil tankers of 150 GT and above must have an
approved Oil Discharge Monitoring System. The system must have provision to work in
manual operating mode if the auto system is not working.

An ODMCS consists essentially of four systems:


1. An Oil content meter: The oil content meter is used to analyze the content of oil in the
water that is to be discharged overboard. This oil is expressed in parts per million (PPM).
2. A flow meter: The flow rate of the oily water to be discharged is measured at the
discharge pipe.
3. A computing unit: A computing unit calculates the oil discharge in litres/nautical miles and
the total quantity, along with date and time identification.

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4. An overboard valve control system: The auto control valve is installed at the overboard so
that it must close and stop the discharge when permissible limit has been reached.

Working
The oily mixture is pumped out to the sea through ODMCS by a pump. A sampler probe and
a flow meter sensor is connected at the discharge pipe, before the overboard valve, to sense
the oil content and the flow of mixture.
The data provided by the two sensors are fed in a control unit wherein it is analysed and the
discharge valve is controlled by the same.
If the control unit senses a rise in the ppm and flow comparing to the permissible value, it
will shut the overboard valve and open the recirculation valve which is connected to slop
tank of the ship.

Q) Each generator tripping while started and come on load before each one tripping
preferential trip happening what would be the reason
A) Busbar overload is detected by relay, or short circuit, Remove the excessive load from the
main bus bar,
Motors take on local mode, and start one by one. Still problem check preferential trip relay
may be stuck.
While paralleling preferential trip activation means, that the generator ACB preferential trip
setting is not correct or the rpm is falling, because of which the generator is not getting
loaded and leading to preferential trip.
If we are unable to take on load and ACB tripping, it’s the clear indication of activation of
interlock.

Q) Generator tripping on reverse power trip what would could be the reason
A) Motoring effect, Generator excitation loss, fault with prime mover not supplying
sufficient torque, Circuit breaker not opened in time, The CTs (current transformers) fault,
or AVR fault.
Most of the time, the governor response to load fluctuation is sluggish due to governor
motor bearing fault, which causes gradually shift of load on to other generator and leading
to reverse power trip.

Q) How to test low lub oil pressure trip on generator?


A) Close valve going to L.O pressure switch, and drain oil from sensor. Or connected
pressure calibrator to pressure switch and apply pressure from pressure calibrator. Check
contact with multimeter.

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Q) Where you will find your job duties onboard the ship?
A) SMS ship management systems are implemented to ensure that commercial vessels are
maintained and operated safely to prevent maritime accidents and protect the marine
environment.
The general duties of electrical engineer or Electro-technical officer are:
He is responsible for maintenance of all the electrical motors on ship i.e. in engine room and
on deck.
He is in charge of maintenance of all switchboard including main switchboard and
emergency switchboard.
He is responsible for maintenance of fire detectors and fire alarm system.
He has to maintain all the ship’s alarm system.
He is responsible for the electronic system fitted onboard ship.
He is responsible for the ship’s navigational lights and other navigational equipments.
He is responsible for all the batteries that are connected to machineries onboard. It
includes:
Emergency batteries for alarm and lights
Lifeboat batteries
Batteries for emergency generator
Other batteries fitted onboard
He is responsible for maintaining refrigeration unit in the engine room
He has to take care of air conditioning unit of the vessel.
Electrical officer is responsible for maintaining refrigerated containers carried on container
ship.
He is responsible for cargo and engine room cranes electrical system.
He has to carry out routine maintenance for main engine alarms and trips along with the
chief engineer.
During the time of manoeuvring, he has to be present in the engine room along with other
engineers to tackle any kind of electrical and other emergencies.
Electrical officer can assist in watch keeping routines at desired time by the chief engineer.
He has to assist ship’s engineer and deck officer in all kind of electrical problems.
He is responsible for ships electric spare/ store requisition and inventory.

Q) Interlock between the main switch board and Emergency switchboard?


A) An interlock is provided, to prevent simultaneous closing of both breaker. Prevent
parallel running. Emergency generator breaker and MSB-ESB link breakers
There is also an interlock provided due to which the emergency generator and Main power
of the ship cannot be supplied together.

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Emergency generator with its switchboard, is located in a compartment which is outside and
away from main and auxiliary machinery space, above the uppermost continuous deck, and
not forward of collision bulkhead

Q) Generator after blackout how you will make it on load when taking on load the ACB not
closing what could be the reason?
A) Generator rpm, frequency, voltage not sufficient, starving fuel supply, CB overload relay
not reset, closing spring may be not charged,
A) Possibility of interlock activation
Controls failure
Closing spring mechanism faulty
Closing motor defective
No volt coil defective / malfunction
ACB mechanical failure

Q) How you will restore supply after blackout.


A) First is to investigate the cause of black out before taking on load.
To prevent further complications, it is advised to switch off breakers which are of least
significant and large loads.
Once the cause is established, ideal running of generator is satisfactory, ACB to be closed.
Once the generator is loaded with minimum load and satisfactory, it should be further
loaded gradually and to be monitored closely.

Q) Two generators are running in parallel. One needed to be off loaded but the ACB not
tripping due to mechanical fault. What’s your action?
A) If unable to carry out OFF LOAD in auto mode, then the next step is to try in manual
mode, were we after reducing load switch OFF the ACB. If even this is not possible, then the
local button on the ACB should be used. If even that is not possible, (which is rarest), then
you have to do black out and ensure bus is dead and then physically retrieve the ACB out to
inspect the contacts, which should be brazed, that’s why unable to open the contacts.

Q) What is negative phase sequence?


A) The negative phase sequence current will flow due to difference of three phase voltages
of the system. If no difference of R Y B voltage is present, the negative sequence current will
not flow. In rotating machines an unbalance voltage or current in one phase winding due to
electrical faults or uneven load further worsen the problem. The magnetic coupling between

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the winding becomes uneven. when subject to unbalance conditions, negative phase
sequence currents produce a counter rotating magnetic field with respect to the main field.
The resultant field rotates at double frequency and causes undesirable eddy-currents to
flow in various structures such as the machine rotor body, excitation winding, stator end
winding and stator iron etc.
Negative sequence current will cause excessive heating of generator rotor as the rotor will
experience double the system frequency so far the negative sequence current is concerned.

*The zero sequence current is present only in case of earth fault otherwise it is absent.

* The positive phase sequence current flows as per the load connected to the circuit.

Q) What is insulted and earthed neutral systems


A) In insulated the generator has three star wires and neutral is not taken out. Earthed
system neutral is taken out and grounded.
An insulated system is one that is totally electrically insulated from earth (ship’s hull)
An earthed system has the supply neutral point connected to earth via NER.
Ship board LV system are normally insulated from earth.
HV system is earthed to the ship hull via neutral earthing resistor NER through high
impedance transformer to limit earth fault current.
Thus the "earthed distribution system" requires only one earth fault on the line conductor
to cause an earth fault current to flow.
An insulated neutral distribution system requires two earth faults on two different lines to
cause an earth fault current to flow.
The priority is the continuous operation of the machineries which are classed "essential".
Thus an insulated neutral system is therefore, more effective than an earthed system in
maintaining continuity of supply to equipments. Hence it is adopted for most marine
electrical systems.

Q) What is function of IGBT?


A) Insulated Gate Bipolar transistor a combination of Mosfet and BJT.
High input impedance and high switching speed like a MOSFET (The metal–oxide–
semiconductor field-effect transistor) and low saturation voltage like a BJT ( Bipolar Junction
Transistor)
Acting as a switch when given a positive gate pulse it conducts. It continuously conducts till
the gate pulse is reversed or Anode to cathode voltage is reversed.

Q) What is LVDT?

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A) The term LVDT stands for the Linear Variable Differential Transformer. It is the most
widely used inductive transducer that covert the linear motion into the electrical signals.
The output across secondary of this transformer is the differential so it is called so. They are
very accurate inductive transducers as compared to other inductive transducers.
Principle of Operation and Working
As the primary is connected to an AC source so alternating current and voltages are
produced in the secondary of the LVDT. The output in secondary S1 is e1 and in the
secondary S2 is e2. So the differential output is, eout = e1 - e2 This equation explains the
principle of Operation of LVDT.

CASE I When the core is at null position (for no displacement)


When the core is at null position then the flux linking with both the secondary windings is
equal so the induced emf is equal in both the windings. So for no displacement the value of
output eout is zero as e1 and e2 both are equal. So it shows that no displacement took
place.

CASE II When the core is moved to upward of null position (For displacement to the upward
of reference point)
In this case the flux linking with secondary winding S1 is more as compared to flux linking
with S2. Due to this e1 will be more as that of e2. Due to this output voltage eout is positive.

CASE III When the core is moved to downward of Null position (for displacement to the
downward of reference point)
In this case magnitude of e2 will be more as that of e1. Due to this output eout will be
negative and shows the output to downward of reference point.
Q) What is the knee point of CT?
A) The knee-point voltage of a current transformer is the magnitude of the secondary
voltage above which the output current stop to linearly follow the input current within
declared accuracy. In testing, if a voltage is applied across the secondary terminals the
magnetizing current will increase in proportion to the applied voltage, until the knee point is

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reached. The knee point is defined as the voltage at which a 10% increase in applied voltage
increases the magnetizing current by 50%. For voltages greater than the knee point, the
magnetizing current increases considerably even for small increments in voltage across the
secondary terminals. The knee-point voltage is less applicable for metering current
transformers as their accuracy is generally much higher, but unnatural within a very small
range of the current transformer rating, typically 1.2 to 1.5 times rated current. However,
the concept of knee point voltage is very important to protection current transformers,
since they are necessarily exposed to fault currents of 20 to 30 times rated current.

Q) Why alternators are also known as synchronous generator?


A) The term synchronous refers here to the fact that the rotor and magnetic field rotate
with the same speed, because the magnetic field is generated through a shaft mounted
permanent magnet mechanism and current is induced into the stationary armature.

Q) What is Open Transition?


A) Transfer switches of the “open-transition” type provide a break-before-make transfer
sequence. This means that the load is disconnected from one source, prior to being
connected to the alternate source. Most transfer switches will accomplish the transfer
sequence very quickly, yet a brief power interruption is noticeable

Q) What is close transition?


A) A closed-transition transfer switch offers a make-before-break transfer sequence. Here,
the source from which the load is being transferred remains closed (connected) until the
alternate source, to which the load is being transferred, is also closed (connected).

Q) Can a star delta starter be modified for close transition?


A) Models for star-delta starting two open-transition and closed-transition. In open
transition, there is a break in power while switching between star and delta, whereas in
closed transition resistors are employed to eliminate any power break.
Closed Transition Star/Delta Starter.
There is a technique to reduce the magnitude of the switching transients. This requires the
use of a fourth contactor and a set of three resistors. The resistors must be sized such that
considerable current is able to flow in the motor windings while they are in circuit.
The auxiliary contactor and resistors are connected across the delta contactor. In operation,
just before the star contactor opens, the auxiliary contactor closes resulting in current flow
via the resistors into the star connection. Once the star contactor opens, current is able to
flow round through the motor windings to the supply via the resistors. These resistors are
then shorted by the delta contactor. If the resistance of the resistors is too high, they will
not swamp the voltage generated by the motor and will serve no purpose.

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In effect, there are five states:


OFF State. All Contactors are open
Star State. The Main [KM3] and the Star [KM1] contactors are closed and the delta [KM2]
contactor is open. The motor is connected in star and will produce one third of DOL torque
at one third of DOL current.
Star Transition State. The motor is connected in star and the resistors are connected across
the delta contactor via the aux [KM4] contactor.
Closed Transition State. The Main [KM3] contactor is closed and the Delta [KM2] and Star
[KM1] contactors are open. Current flows through the motor windings and the transition
resistors via KM4.
Delta State. The Main and the Delta contactors are closed. The transition resistors are
shorted out. The Star contactor is open. The motor is connected to full line voltage and full
power and torque are available.

Q) Why only 4 to 20 mA is taken for sensors why not zero mA?


A) The reason for choosing 4 mA electronic chips requires minimum of 3 mA of current to
function. So, a margin of 4 mA is taken as reference 
if 0 is used instead of 4 mA, we cannot differentiate the actual 0 value of the sensor or the
problem in the transmission of signal. for eg. cable is cut or damage of cable.

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REASON FOR 20 mA
20 mA is used as maximum because the human heart can withstand up-to 30 mA of current
only. So, as a safety point of view 20 mA is chosen.
And the scaling of 4-20 mA is easy. Since calculations are easy in multiples of 2, 4 to 20mA

Q) What is likely to happen if one of rotating diodes fails and becomes an open circuit Or a
short-circuit?
A) Open circuit: The remaining healthy diodes would continue to supply the main field. the
total field current, and hence generator voltage, will be slightly reduced. Under AVR control,
the exciter field current would be automatically boosted to maintain the correct generator
voltage. if the diode failure would probably be undetected. The exciter will gradually
overheat.
A short-circuited diode is more serious as it leads to a short-circuited exciter. Rapid
overheating of the exciter will occur. May lead to loss of excitation.

Q) What will be effect on swbd voltmeter when you increase the voltage of one generator
by voltage Trimmer?
A) The automatic voltage regulator voltage output may be adjusted with the hand regulator
in the exciter field.
Increasing or decreasing the excitation on one generator will only change the power factor
on that unit.
If the generator is over exited the voltage cannot increase due to the grid but the generator
will take more of the load.

Q) Draw the power diagram of auto transformer close transition circuit showing contactors
A) One way to reduce the initial voltage supplied to the motor is to step it down using an
autotransformer which uses only one winding for both input and output. It is only in
operation during the short starting period. The autotransformer is a 3-phase unit, the supply
voltage is connected across the complete winding and the motor is connected to the
reduced voltage tapping. A number of tappings are usually available on the transformer
winding, giving voltage outputs ranging from about 50% to 80% of the mains supply voltage.
(60% tap on an autotransformer supplied at 440 V would provide a voltage o/p of = 264V)
The autotransformer usually has a few tapping points to give a set of reduced voltages (e.g.
40%, 50% and 65%) which help to match the motor current demand to the supply capability.

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Q) Anybody can give the Aux Boiler sequence.


A) Before start boiler all interlocks like low water level, FO temp, flame failure has to be
normal or reset.
Press start boiler button (manual mode)
Pre Purge: FD fan will start with damper full open for expelling any gases remain inside
boiler comb chamber. Timing 4 to 5 min
Then, atomizing air/steam will open.
Damper will close to min position, same time Main burner FO recirculation valve open.
Pilot burner fires with pilot DO pump starts, Do solenoid valve opens and ignition takes
place
As soon flame established
Main burner FO valve opens and recirculation valve close.
After flame safety time (10 sec)
Pilot burner cuts off.
Main fire continues until desired press is obtained.
Press stop button
Main burner operation stops with Main FO solenoid valve close.
FD fan goes to post purge mode for 5min.
Boiler will be in standby mode.
Q) Specification for order welding transformer?
A) Model type
Welding Current range AMPS
Max. Cont. current at 60% Duty Cycle AMPS
Max. Cont. current at 100% Duty Cycle AMPS
Open Circuit Voltage VOLTS

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KVA Rating at 60% Duty Cycle KVA


Input supply VOLTS
Frequency HZ
Cooling Forced Air Cooled
Insulation CLASS
Type of output Current Regulation

Q) Soft starter
A) Soft starting method of supplying a gradually increasing AC voltage during start-up
generally refers to an efficient electronic switching technique. A basic method is to use back-
to-back connected thyristors or triacs in the supply lines which are "gated" to delay "turn-
on, within each AC half-cycle. This delayed switching applies a reduced average AC voltage
to the motor. The applied motor voltage is gradually ramped up by the starter software
program until the full voltage level is reached. To achieve maximum efficiency, the
electronic switching circuit can now be bypassed for normal running. A "soft" starter may be
further adapted to become a voltage controller over the motor operating load range. In this
type of efficient "energy manager" application, the controller monitors the motor power
factor which is a measure of the motor loading. On light load and full voltage, the power
factor is low so the controller reduces the motor voltage which reduces current while
improving power factor and efficiency.

Q) Method for controlling rpm of induction motor?


A) Two main forms of speed change/control are available:
Pole-changing for induction motors to give two or more fixed speeds,
Continuously variable speed control using variable frequency
Electro-hydraulic drive.
Wound-rotor resistance control of induction motors-

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Ward-Leonard d.c. motor drive


Variable-frequency induction or synchronous motor control.

The electro-hydraulic drive, often used for deck crane control, has a relatively simple
electrical section. This is a constant single-speed induction motor supplied from a DOL or
star-delta starter. The motor runs continuously to maintain oil pressure to the variable-
speed hydraulic motors.

A crude form of speed control is provided by the wound rotor induction motor. The rotor
has a 3-phase winding (similar to its stator winding) which is connected to 3 slip rings
mounted on the shaft. An external 3-phase resistor bank is connected to brushes on the
rotor slip rings. A set of contactors or a slide wiper (for small motors) varies the amount of
resistance added to the rotor circuit. Increasing the value of external resistance decreases
the rotor speed. Generally, the starters of wound-rotor motors are interlocked to allow
start-up only when maximum rotor resistance is in circuit. This has the benefits of reducing
the starting current surge while providing a high starting torque. The wound-rotor
arrangement is more expensive than an equivalent cage-rotor machine. It requires more
maintenance on account of the slip rings and the external resistor bank which may require
special cooling facilities.

A traditional method for lifts, cranes and winches is found in the Ward-Leonard drive. Here a
constant speed induction motor drives a DC generator which in turn supplies one or more
DC motors. The generator output voltage is controlled by adjusting its small excitation
current via the speed regulator. The DC motor speed is directly controlled by the generator
voltage. Power drive 750 V DC maximum

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A static electronic transistor or thyristor (high power) controller can be used to generate
such a variable frequency output to directly control the speed of the motor. An electronic
variable speed drive (VSD), the fixed AC input is rectified and smoothed by a capacitor to a
steady DC link voltage (about 600 V DC from a 440 V RMS AC supply). The DC voltage is then
chopped into variable-width, but constant level, voltage pulses in the computer controlled
inverter section using IGBTs (insulated gate bipolar transistors). This process is called pulse
width modulation or PWM. By varying the pulse widths and polarity of the DC voltage it is
possible to generate an average sinusoidal a .c. output over a wide range of frequencies.
Due to the smoothing effect of the motor inductance, the motor currents appear to be
approximately sinusoidal in shape. By directing the currents in sequence into the three
stator winding a reversible rotating magnetic field is produced at a frequency set by the
PWM modulator
Accurate control of shaft torque, acceleration time and braking operational parameters that
can be programmed into the VSD, usually via a hand-held unit. The VSD can be closely tuned
to the connected motor drive to achieve optimum control and protection features for the
overall drive. Speed regulation against load changes is very good and can be made very
precise by the addition of feedback from a shaft speed encoder.
VSDs, being digitally controlled can be easily networked to other computer devices e.g.
programmable logic controllers (PLCs) for the overall control of a complex process.

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Q) Steering gear hydraulic low and low=low level alarm?


Q) When we start Aux- boiler in auto mode which safeties prevent the boiler to fire/start in
auto mode.
Q) How FO valve work when there is flame failure operation between ignition and main
burner?
Q) How do you test aux boiler safety valve?
Q) Show iccp drawing when working in principle. How many sacrifice anodes fitted in ship?
Q) How does the emergency generator comes on load, tie breaker operation. How starter
works? How generator starts and battery operation?
Q) What is the problem when crane stops at 45 deg to 50 deg and there is no boom up or
hoist possible?
Q) What is the use of surge suppression in rotary excitation? Why is there a frequency
difference in rectifier input and main alternator output frequency?
Q) Have you any interlock when you start pump room fan?
Q) What do you check before ship sails?
Q) What is the main ACB ship setting not from book?
Q) How oily water 15 ppm alarm works and how output are connected to others?
Q) What happens after battery polarisation?
Q) What is your purifier motor rating? Why does it not trip in starting, only diagram?

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ETO ORALS QUESTIONS AND ANSWERS

Q) Why are air conditioners rated in tons? How your humidifier/ dehumidifier works? When
used in cold climate, how you open steam adjust humidifier?
Q) What happen when there is an abnormal noise in the motor?
Q) How do you test bus tie breaker?
Q) Difference between RMS valve and peak valve?
Q) What is motor slip? What is synchronous motor and asynchronous motor?
Q) Generator excitation system?
Q) Purpose of varistor?
Q) Star delta starter?
Q) Auto transformer percentage of voltage drop in transformer?
Q) Maintenance on batteries, why not stored together (lead and nickel)
Q) Fire detection system in cargo hold?
Q) Saturday routine in detail?
Q) Boiler safeties and trips?
Q) Power factor calculation?
Q) Gantry crane safeties?
Q) Hydraulic system explain?
Q) Explain brushesless generator with block diagram?
Q) What is surge suppressor resistor, how its works?
Q) What is radar? Explain magnetron? How radar works?
Q) What reference system use on diving support vessel?
Q) What is hart?
Q) Incinerator firing sequence?
Q) In auto transformer what is voltage while starting?
Q) What is PMS?
Q) Life boat regulation and davit safeties?

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