Bridge Control for an unmanned ER
Posted by: MarinerGalaxy
Starting and stopping, reversing of engine or propeller pitch and speed control are possible from the bridge. An emergency direct arrangement for stopping the engine is provided in the bridge, independent of the normal bridge control system.
If the direction for the engine on air is set as required, the Turning Gear (TG) is disengaged, and the starting air pressure sufficient, air will admit to the chosen cylinders to start the engine. At firing speed a signal will be sent to the governor for fuel release.
Provided the essential parameters, such as lubricating oil pressure, cooling water pressure, air spring pressure, etc, are correct and the respective cutouts do not block the fuel supply, fuel will be injected and the engine will start to run in the required direction. A further program checks the running direction, and speed, and adjusts the signal to the governor for regulating the speed according to the telegraph order. The program also ensures that continuous running at critical speed range (if any) is avoided, by a large increase or reduction in fuel charge in quickly passing over the critical range.
In case the engine fails to start, the program is repeated up to 3 times, after which the system gets locked and an alarm is sounded for manual intervention.
