ABSTRACT
The engine room is usually located near the bottom, at the stern of the vessel, and comprises very few compartments. This design maximises the ship's cargo carrying capacity and situates the prime mover close to the propeller. Container ships have many propulsion arrangements including multiple engines, and gearboxes. Engine room operations are governed by SOLAS 1974 and specifically chapter II-1, regulations 46–53. Permission must always be sought from the bridge before turning the engine, as they will need to provide propeller clearance. Most main engines have an online diesel performance system whereas diesel generators have a manual system. Fuel oil consumption calculation and recordkeeping are one of the critical tasks that the chief engineer is responsible for. The quantity of fuel bunkered as stated in the Bunker Delivery Note must be checked by gauging the fuel tanks on board prior to and after the completion of bunkering. The boiler is one of the most important machinery systems on the ship.
