A ship blackout is the simultaneous loss of main and auxiliary power sources. In that event the emergency generator feeding the emergency switchboard provides power for emergency lighting and safety systems.
How Does a Blackout Occur?
- Load sharing faults between parallel generators.
- Failures in the main engine governor.
- Logic errors in the power management system (PMS).
- Overload or lack of tripping coordination.
Emergency Power and UVT Management
Undervoltage trip (UVT) circuits start the start-up sequence of the emergency generator when the main supply drops below the lower limit. Periodic testing of automatic start, self-sustaining and load acceptance times of the emergency generator is critical.
Preventive Planning
Blackout recovery procedures, crew drills and spare part stock largely reduce the risk. Up-to-date test records also provide strong evidence during surveys.