The UPS fail error occurred and the final system for protecting the main engine against automatic power failure failed. A BMS AC220V UPS FAIL alarm appeared on the alarm monitoring system in the ECR. BMS - Bridge maneuvering system.
In simple words, the uninterruptible power supply (UPS), which is designed for the normal operation of the automatic control system of the main engine during the transition of the ship's electrical station from main to emergency power, has stopped working.
In this article we will analyze the sequence of actions to resolve this problem. We open the UPS cabinet of the main engine automatic control system and see that there is also an alarm on the uninterruptible power supply.
As always, we refer to the instructions to identify the source of the error.
According to the instructions, first of all you need to check the condition of the batteries. Since batteries are maintenance-free, it is advisable to use a battery tester to determine the battery capacity.
To do this, turn off the FB circuit breaker, open the battery cabinet, disconnect the batteries and measure the voltage and capacity.
The multimeter shows more than 26 V (two 12V 12Ah batteries are connected in series), but the real situation is that the battery capacity is at zero. The photo above shows the battery test using a "load fork".
The batteries need to be replaced. When receiving a set of batteries, we measure the capacity and use the same procedure described above to replace the batteries with new ones. It is very important to switch UPS to Service mode.
To do this, the UPS battery capacity selection switch must be set to the Service position. After replacing the batteries and turning on the FB breaker, we move the switch to the position of our capacity - 12 Ah.
As a result, we restored UPS of the main engine remote automatic control system. Batteries can be replaced while the vessel is moving, because in normal operation, the automatic control system of the main engine does not use batteries.
In this article, I specifically focused on the battery tester "load fork", because a multimeter only shows voltage, but it is not able to show the real state of the battery, its capacity. The multimeter may show normal voltage, but in fact the battery is no longer working.
By the way, it is not recommended to use a "load fork" on small batteries; it is advisable to use an electronic battery capacity tester. It is also suitable for work on tankers. The loading fork cannot be used on tankers!
Very often in my practice, I observe that on ships with maintenance-free batteries there are no special load forks (battery testers). I recommend to order and use it, otherwise it is impossible to immediately understand what the problem really is, in the battery or in the uninterruptible power supply (UPS).
Using an Uninterruptible Power Supply (UPS) for the backup of the main engine on a ship is crucial for ensuring the safety and reliability of maritime operations. The primary purpose of such a UPS is to provide continuous power to the control and monitoring systems of the main engine, as well as other critical systems, in the event of a primary power failure.
Key Aspects of Using UPS for Main Engine Backup
1. Types of UPS for Maritime Applications
- Line-Interactive UPS: This type of UPS can compensate for voltage fluctuations and provides stable power, which is essential for sensitive equipment. Suitable for less critical control systems.
- Online (Double Conversion) UPS: Continuously converts incoming voltage and provides the most stable and reliable power. This is the preferred choice for the main engine as it ensures uninterrupted and quality power.
2. Main Components
- Batteries: Provide temporary power in case of a primary power failure.
- Inverter: Converts DC from the batteries to AC to power connected equipment.
- Rectifier: Converts incoming AC to DC to charge the batteries.
- Automatic Transfer Switch: Switches power to the batteries in the event of a primary power failure.
3. Key Functions of UPS for Main Engine
- Surge Protection: Protects control systems and other sensitive components from voltage spikes.
- Noise Filtering: Eliminates electrical noise that can affect the operation of equipment.
- Voltage Stabilization: Maintains constant voltage, preventing fluctuations that can damage the engine control system.
- Automatic Self-Testing: Regularly checks the status of batteries and other components, ensuring readiness.
4. Benefits of Using UPS for Main Engine
- Continuous Operation: Ensures uninterrupted power to the engine control systems, minimizing the risk of engine shutdown.
- Data Protection: Prevents data loss and system failures caused by power outages.
- Enhanced Reliability: Improves the overall reliability of the ship’s infrastructure by providing stable power.
- Safety: Protects equipment from electrical overloads and surges, reducing the risk of damage and accidents.
Applications of UPS for Main Engine
1. Control and Monitoring Systems
Provides power to electronic control and monitoring systems of the main engine, including automated control systems (ACS).
2. Critical Systems
Backup power for navigation, communication, and emergency lighting systems.
3. Monitoring and Diagnostics
Ensures continuous power to monitoring and diagnostic systems for the main engine.
Using a UPS for the main engine backup on a ship is a vital aspect of ensuring operational safety and continuity. Selecting the right type of UPS, proper configuration, and regular maintenance help protect critical systems, minimize downtime risk, and enhance overall reliability of maritime operations.
AMS model: Alarm monitoring & control system Kongsberg K-Chief 500.
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