Introduction to Boiler

OPERATION
During anchorages and port stays, aux boiler is to be run in auto mode. Ensure the pilot burner and main burner are in good condition and ensure exhaust gas is not SMOKY. Smoke sensor where fitted should be monitored. HFO temp at burner inlet to be checked from the FO analysis report. Local regulations regarding type of fuel/ Sulphur content must be followed.

Use of Boiler Gauge Glasses
Boiler water is to be kept within the upper and lower limits at all times. If water level disappears from either the top or the bottom of the glass and does not return immediately, then all burners are to be shut off until the water level has been restored in the gauge glass. Any such loss of water must be recorded in the Engine Log Book and reported to the Chief Engineer. Whenever the water level indicated is suspect it is essential that water level indications are checked locally from the water level gauge glass. Water level gauge glasses of low pressure are to be “blown down” by an approved method for the type of gauge glass at least once per watch or whenever water level indication is suspect. Water level gauge glasses of high pressure water level gauge glasses are to be blown through only when necessary.

Testing of Boiler Water Controls, Regulators, Alarms and Trips:
All boiler controls, regulators, alarms and trips must be tested regularly in accordance with the applicable Planned Maintenance System and maker’s recommendations. Each test is to be recorded with the signature of the Engineer Officer who conducted the test. Boiler level alarms or trip defects are to be rectified immediately. The boiler should not normally be operated with any such safeguards inoperative unless under the supervision of the Chief Engineer. In this circumstance the boiler must be continuously monitored. The office is to be advised of details of any defects, remedial measures taken, and confirmation of satisfactory re-tests which are also to be recorded in the Engine Room Log Book.

Boiler Water Tests and Treatment:
Water in the boilers, steam/steam generators together with samples from their feed water systems is to be tested daily. Testing is to be carried out in accordance with procedures laid down by the suppliers of the water treatment systems. Completion of tests is to be recorded in Engine Room logbook and the full results entered on the appropriate forms and sent to the laboratory for evaluation. Test results indicating contamination or loss of chemical reserve are to be investigated immediately. Departures from normal operating conditions are to be recorded and the Office immediately advised.

Blowing Down Boilers:
Boilers are to be blown down dependent upon the frequency required to control the level of dissolved solids contained in the boiler water. It is advised to give a scum blow down every day and bottom blow down at least once a week. Blowing down is to be carried out irrespective of the salinity or chemical reserve readings. Use is also to be made of the surface blow down valve to remove scum from the boiler.

Spark and Smoke Emission
The Master should request appropriate detailed information from the local agent concerning the area emission regulations and pass the information to the Chief Engineer. Careful consideration should be given to the location and operational circumstance of the vessel before soot blowing. Permission should be sought from the bridge before soot blowing. Soot blowing or cleaning of turbochargers is prohibited during gas freeing cargo tanks, bunkering or transferring fuel, transferring cargo alongside a terminal or during ship to ship transfer. Before arrival port Chief Engineer shall ensure that spark or smoke emission does not take place while maneuvering and while alongside the berth. In order to ensure that sparks are not generated from the funnel, flame arrestors and screens, if fitted, must be regularly checked and replaced. It is to be noted that high back pressures can be generated if these devices become blocked. Flame screens are not to be painted.