NavyLookout Retweeted; a series of
11 tweets by a Naval Engineer that may be found to be of interest!!
Note:-
6/ reminds me of the QNLZ R08 Basin Trials that failed to identify that a bolt(s) on one of the prop blades had not been torqued down properly etc etc ... thus the need for full sea trials.
&
8/ anchor capstans get a mention (topical subject at the moment on this thread)
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Andrew Watkis @AndrewWatkis
Been on leave for a week, but it's back to work on Monday, and that means it's nearly time for a Basin Trial. But what is that I don't hear you ask?
1/
7:57 am · 15 Aug 2020·Twitter for Android
Andrew Watkis @AndrewWatkis
In the @RoyalNavy a Basin Trial is a demonstration to the Command (the Captain) that the propulsion and auxiliary systems are ready and safe for sea after a period of maintenance or an extended time alongside. It is a comprehensive serial taking up to a day depending on class
2/
7:57 am · 15 Aug 2020·Twitter for Android
Andrew Watkis @AndrewWatkis
It usually starts several days before with the Marine Engineering Department carrying out 'SAFeRs' (Sequential Action Flow Routine ). These are a series of cards that bring all machinery from an unknown state to 24hrs notice for sea (yellow/buff);
3/
7:57 am · 15 Aug 2020·Twitter for Android
Andrew Watkis @AndrewWatkis
From 24 hrs to 4 hrs notice (blues) and 4hrs to immediate (pinks). They test valve line ups, pressures, voltages, positions, indications etc so that each system is in a defined, known condition.
4/
7:57 am · 15 Aug 2020·Twitter for Android
Andrew Watkis @AndrewWatkis
Pinks are carried out on the morning of the Basin Trial, and normally 0800 or 0900, we are good to go: an OOW on the bridge, riggers on the jetty, shore services disconnected and a full watch closed up in the SCC. When the WO ME is ready the order is given to 'Start Serial 1'
5/
7:57 am · 15 Aug 2020·Twitter for Android
Andrew Watkis @AndrewWatkis
The Basin Trial itself varies from class to class in its details, but every engine will be started and connected (electrically or mechanically) and the shafts turned, ahead and astern. This will be done at minimum speed, so you don't drive up the jetty!
6/
7:57 am · 15 Aug 2020·Twitter for Android
Andrew Watkis @AndrewWatkis
The steering gear will be started and swept from port to starboard and back. Timings, readings and measurements will be taken to check everything is operating correctly, but they key thing is the ship has demonstrated that it can be controlled and manoeuvred safely
7/
7:57 am · 15 Aug 2020·Twitter for Android
Andrew Watkis @AndrewWatkis
At the same time this is going on, safety critical secondary systems are also being proved, such as sea boats, davits and anchor capstans
8/
7:57 am · 15 Aug 2020·Twitter for Android
Andrew Watkis @AndrewWatkis
Lastly, if an Integrated Electric Propulsion ship, is demonstrating Black Out Recovery. This what happens if all power generation fails onboard (a Total Electric Failure; TLF), and is how the ship goes from being in the dark to lights back on an shafts turning
9/
7:57 am · 15 Aug 2020·Twitter for Android
Andrew Watkis @AndrewWatkis
In @HMSQNLZ this is a very robust system, controlled by EPCAMS (Electrical Propulsion Control and Management System). It's not magic, but it is very satisfying when the last breaker closes and you are 'Ready to Obey Telegraphs'.
10/
7:57 am · 15 Aug 2020·Twitter for Android
Andrew Watkis @AndrewWatkis
With completion of the trial, it's time to report to the Captain, make good any defects, secure the department, or sometimes proceed straight to sea!
11, End/
7:57 am · 15 Aug 2020·Twitter for Android
its much appreciated