SHIP DIESEL ENGINE & PLANTS ASSIGNMENT
NAME : Meyka Sabrina M
NRP : 5019221067
Air Supply
1. What is the primary function of air supply in a diesel engine?
The air supply in a diesel engine is crucial for the combustion process. Diesel engines
operate on the principle of compression ignition, where air is compressed to a high
temperature and pressure, allowing diesel fuel to ignite upon injection. This process
requires a sufficient amount of air to mix with the fuel for efficient combustion and power
generation
2. How does the compression ratio affect the performance of a diesel engine?
The compression ratio in a diesel engine typically ranges from 15:1 to 24:1. A higher
compression ratio increases the engine's efficiency and power output by raising the
temperature of the air before fuel injection, leading to more complete combustion.
However, excessively high ratios can lead to engine knocking or damage
3. What is a positive air shut-off valve, and why is it important for diesel engines?
A positive air shut-off valve is a safety device designed to prevent runaway conditions in
diesel engines by cutting off the air supply. In situations where flammable vapors enter the
intake, this valve stops airflow, thus preventing uncontrolled acceleration that could lead to
catastrophic failures or accidents
Lubrication
4. How does temperature affect diesel fuel performance?
Cold temperatures can increase the viscosity of diesel fuel, making it harder to flow and
atomize properly, which can affect engine start-up and performance
5. What maintenance practices are essential for diesel fuel systems?
Regularly replacing fuel filters, checking for leaks, and ensuring proper injector function
are crucial for maintaining optimal performance
6. What is meant by "fuel atomization" in a diesel engine?
Fuel atomization refers to breaking down liquid fuel into fine droplets for efficient mixing
with air in the combustion chamber, enhancing combustion efficiency
Cooling System
7. Why is it necessary to treat water used in diesel engine cooling systems?
Water treatment is essential in diesel engine cooling systems to prevent scale deposits and
corrosion within the cooling system components. Treated water helps maintain system
efficiency and prolongs the lifespan of engine parts by reducing harmful chemical
reactions
8. What is the primary function of a cooling system in a diesel engine?
The primary function of a cooling system in a diesel engine is to maintain the engine
temperature within optimal limits by dissipating excess heat generated during combustion.
This prevents overheating, which can lead to engine damage and reduced performance.
9. What are the two main types of cooling systems used in diesel engines?
Diesel engines typically use two main types of cooling systems: air cooling and water
cooling. Air-cooled engines use fins to dissipate heat into the atmosphere, while water-
cooled engines circulate coolant through the engine and radiator to remove heat
Fuel Supply
10. How does temperature affect diesel fuel performance?
Cold temperatures can increase the viscosity of diesel fuel, making it harder to flow and
atomize properly, which can affect engine start-up and performance
11. What maintenance practices are essential for diesel fuel systems?
Regularly replacing fuel filters, checking for leaks, and ensuring proper injector function
are crucial for maintaining optimal performance
12. What is meant by "fuel atomization" in a diesel engine?
Fuel atomization refers to breaking down liquid fuel into fine droplets for efficient mixing
with air in the combustion chamber, enhancing combustion efficiency
Supercharging
13. What is the primary purpose of supercharging in diesel engines?
The primary purpose of supercharging in diesel engines is to increase the density of the air
charge before it enters the cylinders, allowing for more air and fuel to be combusted,
thereby enhancing power output and efficiency.
14. How does supercharging affect the mechanical efficiency of a diesel engine?
Supercharging typically improves the mechanical efficiency of a diesel engine compared
to naturally aspirated engines. This is due to the increased brake mean effective pressure,
which leads to a significant rise in brake power despite some increase in friction power
15. Why might supercharging be preferred over turbocharging in certain applications?
Supercharging can be preferred in situations where immediate power response is needed,
such as in certain aircraft engines or specific automotive applications. Unlike
turbochargers that rely on exhaust gases, superchargers are mechanically driven and can
provide boost at lower RPMs, making them suitable for applications requiring quick
throttle response
Control and Management Devices on Engine
16. What are the main aims of an engine management system in diesel engines?
The main aims of an engine management system include achieving high reliability, low
emissions, optimal fuel consumption, and reduced noise levels. It ensures that the engine
operates efficiently under various conditions while maintaining performance standards.
17. What parameters can be controlled by an engine management system in a diesel engine?
An engine management system can control several important parameters, including the
air-fuel ratio, injection timing, and engine speed. These controls help optimize combustion
efficiency and overall engine performance.
18. What are some common types of sensors used in diesel engine management systems?
Common sensors include knock sensors, which detect vibrations caused by knocking;
lambda sensors, which monitor air-fuel mixture; and thermistors, which measure
temperature changes. These sensors provide critical data for adjusting engine operations
to enhance efficiency and reduce emissions
Engine Monitoring Diagnostic
19. What is the first step in diagnosing a diesel engine problem?
The first step is to perform a visual inspection of the engine to look for obvious signs of
issues, such as leaks or damaged components. Following this, it is crucial to check the fuel
system for any blockages or contamination that could affect performance.
20. How can fault codes help in diagnosing diesel engine issues?
Modern diesel engines are equipped with Electronic Control Units (ECUs) that store fault
codes when anomalies are detected. Using a diagnostic scanner to read these codes
provides valuable insights into potential problems, allowing technicians to focus their
troubleshooting efforts effectively.
21. What are common indicators that a diesel engine may need an overhaul?
Key indicators include excessive oil consumption, unusual engine noises, decreased power
output, and poor fuel efficiency. Monitoring these symptoms can help diagnose underlying
issues early and prevent catastrophic failure.
Exhaust Emission
22. What are the primary pollutants emitted by diesel engines?
Diesel engines primarily emit nitrogen oxides (NOx), particulate matter (soot), carbon
monoxide (CO), and hydrocarbons (HC). These emissions are the by-products of the
combustion process and can contribute to air pollution and health issues.
23. What causes black smoke in diesel engine exhaust?
Black smoke is typically caused by incomplete combustion of fuel, often due to over-
fueling, which can result from injector wear or malfunction. This indicates that excess fuel
is not burning properly, leading to higher emissions of particulate matter.
24. How does Diesel Exhaust Fluid (DEF) help reduce emissions?
Diesel Exhaust Fluid (DEF) is injected into the exhaust stream of diesel engines, where it
decomposes into ammonia. This ammonia then reacts with nitrogen oxides in the Selective
Catalytic Reduction (SCR) system, converting them into harmless nitrogen and water
vapor, thereby significantly reducing NOx emissions
SCR Catalizer
25. What is Selective Catalytic Reduction (SCR)?
Selective Catalytic Reduction (SCR) is an advanced emissions control technology used in
diesel engines to reduce nitrogen oxide (NOx) emissions. It works by injecting a reducing
agent, typically Diesel Exhaust Fluid (DEF), into the exhaust stream, where it reacts with
NOx in the presence of a catalyst to convert these harmful gases into nitrogen and water
vapor, which are harmless components of the atmosphere
26. How does the SCR system function in a diesel engine?
The SCR system operates by injecting DEF, which is a solution of urea and deionized
water, into the exhaust gases. As the exhaust heats up, the DEF vaporizes and decomposes
into ammonia. This ammonia then reacts with NOx in the SCR catalyst, facilitating a
chemical reaction that transforms NOx into nitrogen and water vapor
27. What role does Diesel Exhaust Fluid (DEF) play in SCR systems?
DEF is crucial for the SCR process as it serves as the reducing agent needed for the
chemical reaction that reduces NOx emissions. It consists of 32.5% urea and 67.5%
deionized water. The proper functioning of SCR systems depends on maintaining an
adequate supply of DEF; running low can lead to reduced engine performance or even
immobilization of the vehicle
