Scavenge Fire

What would you do in the event of a Scavenge Fire?

If a Scavenge Fire were to start, the two main objectives are to confine the Scavenge Fire to the Scavenge Space and to minimise damage to the Engine.

In the event of the Fire breaking out, inform Bridge that the Engine is to be brought to Dead Slow Ahead and also inform the Chief Engineer.

The Fuel should be cut off to that particular Cylinder.  The Cylinder Lub Oil should be increased to prevent seizure and wear.

If Fixed Fire Fighting Equipment is attached to the Scavenge Trunking, this can be brought into operation, depending on severity of situation.  But in most cases the Fire will generally subside within 5-15 minutes.

Once the Fire is out and Navigational Circumstances allow it, the Engine must be Stopped.

Do not open Scavenge Space Doors or Crankcase Doors before Site of Fire has cooled down.  When opening up, care must be taken to keep clear of any flame.

After opening up, all scavenge spaces must be thoroughly cleaned and all debris removed.  The Piston Rods and Cylinder Liner should be examined for surface blemishes, straightness, etc., and the Diaphragm Glands (Stuffing Box) examined to ensure that they are operational and not damaged.

Also Piston Rings should be checked, as Blow By may have been the Ignition Source of the Fire.  If possible the Piston Head in question should be renewed at the earliest possible moment and the damaged Unit overhauled.

On Engines fitted with Tie Bolts, it may be necessary to re-tighten the Bolts adjacent to the Fire.

When starting the Engine again, care must be taken after switching on the Fuel to the Cylinder in question, and that also the Cylinder Lub Oil quantities are reduced to normal