Mars Reports 2013
The vessel had just cleared the jetty and was under pilotage. The telegraph order was given for full ahead. However, the RPM remained low, at 130, with an estimated speed of 5.8 kts. High density black smoke was then seen coming from the funnel.
The chief engineer reported to the bridge suspecting a problem with the main engine turbocharger. After safely anchoring, the turbo charger was opened up by ship staff. Upon inspection it was ascertained that the rotor assembly required balancing.
After taking the turbocharger cartridge to the workshop for checking, following damage was evident:
- Turbine blades worn oval on half the wheel profile.
- Turbine side shaft labyrinth deeply grooved and worn undersize and the shaft bent at the turbine end journal.
- Turbine end journal bearing was subjected to extreme heat and had turned blue.
- Shaft bent at the compressor end journal.
- Compressor impellor worn oval on half the wheel profile.
Given the above findings the rotor assembly was not repairable. The rotor assembly required replacement, along with a few other parts.
Find root cause analysis and lessons learnt from the above incident by clicking at the Mars Report 50 issued by The Nautical Institute