A Digital Computer Based Engine Room Automation System for Turbine Driven Ships

Abstract

This paper treats one aspect of the shipboard automation, namely an automated engine room for turbine driven ships. The automation system presented compromise the result of a Norwegian research and development project which started in 1970.The system is based on one standard type process control computer. The general goals of such an automated engine room system are stated. A description of the automation system is given, and the advantages of digital computer applications are pointed out.Special attention is made to on-line condition monitoring and trend analysis of steam turbine plants, and to the optimal Direct Digital Control (DDC) of the main boiler.The computer system has conventional back-up. A brief discussion on the back-up philosophy and the method of swtiching from computer mode to conventional mode is carried through.Complete computer system simulation testing of the automation system before entering the ship is very important and some space is devoted to this matter.The qualifications of the operating personnel is explained.The necessary training in addition to the basic education and experience of the engineers will be given.The paper concludes with a summary of the importance of the new developments which are implemented in this automation system.