Assessor Resource

MARL034
Demonstrate advanced knowledge of marine electrical systems

Assessment tool

Version 1.0
Issue Date: April 2024


This unit involves the skills and knowledge required to supply shipboard electrical power on board a commercial vessel. It includes analysing electrical layout systems, alternators, marine motors, lighting systems, power management and uninterruptable power systems (UPS), shipboard electrical equipment and high voltage power systems.

This unit applies to the work of a Marine Engineer Class 1 on commercial vessels of unlimited propulsion power and forms part of the requirements for the Certificate of Competency Marine Engineer Class 1 issued by the Australian Maritime Safety Authority (AMSA).

No licensing, legislative or certification requirements apply to this unit at the time of publication.

You may want to include more information here about the target group and the purpose of the assessments (eg formative, summative, recognition)


Evidence Required

List the assessment methods to be used and the context and resources required for assessment. Copy and paste the relevant sections from the evidence guide below and then re-write these in plain English.

Elements describe the essential outcomes.

Performance criteria describe the performance needed to demonstrate achievement of the element.

1

Evaluate advanced electrical layout systems

1.1

Effects of power factor changes on prime mover, alternator and electrical system are analysed

1.2

Methods of altering load power factor by means of capacitors or synchronous machines are explained

1.3

Methods of obtaining constant frequency from a variable frequency output such as a main engine driven alternator and/or variable speed drives for a self discharging equipment are explained

1.4

Protecting systems available for shaft driven alternators are evaluated

2

Analyse construction and principles of operation of different types of marine alternators

2.1

Construction and operating parameters of different types of marine alternators are compared and contrasted

2.2

Cooling systems, leak detection, monitoring and protection systems in different types of marine alternators are compared and contrasted

2.3

Procedures for drying out an alternator with a low insulation resistance are explained

2.4

Excitation systems and methods of flashing alternator after loss of excitation are appraised

2.5

Systems used for protecting against high winding temperatures, circulating currents, loss of excitation and internal short circuit are evaluated

3

Analyse different types of direct current (DC) and alternating current (AC) marine motors

3.1

Different types and applications of marine motors are compared and contrasted

3.2

Difference between types of encapsulation is explained and where they should be used is justified

3.3

Motor ratings and effect of overloading on different types of motor are assessed

3.4

Possible operational problems associated with marine motors are analysed and appropriate remedial action is devised

3.5

Procedure for drying out a motor that has become unserviceable due to either long-term storage or immersion in seawater is formulated

3.6

Effects of operating star connected motors compared with delta connected motors are distinguished and when this may be required is suggested

3.7

Different types and applications of special motors for deck and cargo operation are analysed

4

Analyse requirements of motor starters for 3 phase and synchronous motors

4.1

Differentiation is established between different types of motor starters

4.2

Different types of starters are evaluated in terms of starting torque and current, and are compared to particular motor applications

4.3

Simple starter circuit diagrams are evaluated and operating principles of motor starters are explained

4.4

Documentation and circuit and wiring diagrams are used for fault-finding in motor starters

4.5

Routine maintenance program for monitoring vibration and insulation resistance levels of motors is designed

5

Analyse lighting systems used on board ships

5.1

Common types and applications of lighting systems are evaluated

5.2

Distribution layout systems are explained

5.3

Fault-finding method for lights and starter systems, including lighting in hazardous areas, is planned using circuit diagrams

6

Evaluate alternator excitation system design

6.1

Different types of excitation systems and impact of load changes are compared

6.2

Type, location and function of components involved in excitation are examined

6.3

Function, cooling, failure mode and procedures for testing and changing diodes are explained

6.4

Functions of an Automatic Voltage Regulator (AVR) and how it may be incorporated into an excitation system are explained

6.5

Process of fault-finding in an AVR and types, causes and remedies of common problems are explained

6.6

The impact excitation systems have on output in normal and adverse circumstances is assessed

7

Analyse power management and UPS fitted to vessels

7.1

Operational functions of power management systems during high load, overload and short circuit conditions are analysed

7.2

Functions and components of UPS systems are evaluated

7.3

Limitations of power management and UPS fitted to vessels are analysed

7.4

System response under possible fault conditions of vessel power management and UPS are determined

8

Analyse vessel cathodic protection system

8.1

Cathodic protection systems and how they interact are analysed

8.2

Components of cathodic protection systems are identified and life cycle maintenance program is prepared

8.3

Modifications required for operating parameters of cathodic protection systems when operating alongside an active wharf or another vessel are determined

8.4

Likely causes of corrosion in relation to size, location or distribution of anodes or current densities are assessed

8.5

Other corrosion problems in shipboard environment that may be cause of electrical problems are appraised

9

Assess requirements and components associated with electrical systems for hazardous spaces on board vessels

9.1

Different types, limitation and nameplate identification of ‘E’ equipment are compared

9.2

Requirements of classification societies are distinguished from administrations regarding electrical installations on board vessels

9.3

Lighting and power supply requirements of pump rooms are identified

9.4

Safety requirements for electrical equipment and safety practices on board vessels and how these are extended when alongside a berth are analysed

10

Assess existing electrical shipboard equipment

10.1

Existing and new shipboard electrical equipment and systems are compared to assess future requirements as well as potential problems and preventative measures

10.2

Performance of existing shipboard electrical equipment and systems is analysed and cost effectiveness studies for modifications or improvements are prepared

10.3

Factors involved in commissioning new electrical plant are evaluated

10.4

Procedures involved in organising survey of existing plant are outlined

10.5

Procedures involved in making recommendations for new systems consistent with modified new ship building requirements are outlined

11

Appraise high voltage electrical motor propulsion systems

11.1

Safety requirements for working with high voltage systems are identified

11.2

Use of high voltage systems for propulsion and cargo handling is evaluated

11.3

Safe maintenance methods for high voltage switchgear and machines are analysed

Evidence required to demonstrate competence in this unit must be relevant to and satisfy all of the requirements of the elements, performance criteria and range of conditions on at least one occasion and include:

applying relevant work health and safety/occupational health and safety (WHS/OHS) requirements and work practices

assessing own work outcomes and maintaining knowledge of current codes, standards, regulations and industry practices

explaining advanced principles of lighting, cathodic protection, high voltage systems and imparting knowledge and ideas verbally, in writing and visually

identifying and interpreting complex numerical and graphical information in electrical diagrams and specifications for a commercial vessel

identifying and suggesting ways of rectifying electrical hazards and emergency situations on a vessel

identifying methods, procedures and materials needed for operating, maintaining and repairing complex marine electrical systems

reading and interpreting written information related to electrical circuitry and components on commercial vessels

using electrical measuring and testing instruments.

Evidence required to demonstrate competence in this unit must be relevant to and satisfy all of the requirements of the elements, performance criteria and range of conditions and include knowledge of:

alternating current (AC)/direct current (DC) voltage

AC and DC marine motors

alternators:

alternator excitation system design

construction

characteristics

synchronised operation

types

cathodic protection system

electrical:

layout systems

measuring and testing instruments

shipboard equipment

symbols, basic electrical diagrams/circuits

high voltage electrical motor propulsion systems

lighting systems used on board ships

motor starters for three-phase and synchronous motors

phase angle, power factor, and current flow

power management and UPS fitted to vessels

procedures for dealing with hazards and emergencies

requirements and components associated with electrical systems for hazardous spaces on board vessels

resistance, inductance and capacitance

safe electrical working practices

WHS/OHS requirements and work practices.

Assessors must satisfy National Vocational Education and Training Regulator (NVR)/Australian Quality Training Framework (AQTF) assessor requirements.

Assessment must satisfy the National Vocational Education and Training Regulator (NVR)/Australian Quality Training Framework (AQTF) standards.

Assessment processes and techniques must be appropriate to the language, literacy and numeracy requirements of the work being performed and the needs of the candidate.

Assessment must occur in workplace operational situations or where these are not available, in simulated workplace operational situations or an industry-approved marine operations site that replicates workplace conditions where advanced knowledge of marine electrical systems can be demonstrated.

Resources for assessment include access to:

applicable documentation including workplace procedures, regulations, codes of practice and operation manuals

technical reference library with current publications on marine electrical systems

tools, equipment, materials and personal protective equipment currently used in industry.

Performance should be demonstrated consistently over time and in a suitable range of contexts.

Submission Requirements

List each assessment task's title, type (eg project, observation/demonstration, essay, assingnment, checklist) and due date here

Assessment task 1: [title]      Due date:

(add new lines for each of the assessment tasks)

Assessment Tasks

Copy and paste from the following data to produce each assessment task. Write these in plain English and spell out how, when and where the task is to be carried out, under what conditions, and what resources are needed. Include guidelines about how well the candidate has to perform a task for it to be judged satisfactory.

Elements describe the essential outcomes.

Performance criteria describe the performance needed to demonstrate achievement of the element.

1

Evaluate advanced electrical layout systems

1.1

Effects of power factor changes on prime mover, alternator and electrical system are analysed

1.2

Methods of altering load power factor by means of capacitors or synchronous machines are explained

1.3

Methods of obtaining constant frequency from a variable frequency output such as a main engine driven alternator and/or variable speed drives for a self discharging equipment are explained

1.4

Protecting systems available for shaft driven alternators are evaluated

2

Analyse construction and principles of operation of different types of marine alternators

2.1

Construction and operating parameters of different types of marine alternators are compared and contrasted

2.2

Cooling systems, leak detection, monitoring and protection systems in different types of marine alternators are compared and contrasted

2.3

Procedures for drying out an alternator with a low insulation resistance are explained

2.4

Excitation systems and methods of flashing alternator after loss of excitation are appraised

2.5

Systems used for protecting against high winding temperatures, circulating currents, loss of excitation and internal short circuit are evaluated

3

Analyse different types of direct current (DC) and alternating current (AC) marine motors

3.1

Different types and applications of marine motors are compared and contrasted

3.2

Difference between types of encapsulation is explained and where they should be used is justified

3.3

Motor ratings and effect of overloading on different types of motor are assessed

3.4

Possible operational problems associated with marine motors are analysed and appropriate remedial action is devised

3.5

Procedure for drying out a motor that has become unserviceable due to either long-term storage or immersion in seawater is formulated

3.6

Effects of operating star connected motors compared with delta connected motors are distinguished and when this may be required is suggested

3.7

Different types and applications of special motors for deck and cargo operation are analysed

4

Analyse requirements of motor starters for 3 phase and synchronous motors

4.1

Differentiation is established between different types of motor starters

4.2

Different types of starters are evaluated in terms of starting torque and current, and are compared to particular motor applications

4.3

Simple starter circuit diagrams are evaluated and operating principles of motor starters are explained

4.4

Documentation and circuit and wiring diagrams are used for fault-finding in motor starters

4.5

Routine maintenance program for monitoring vibration and insulation resistance levels of motors is designed

5

Analyse lighting systems used on board ships

5.1

Common types and applications of lighting systems are evaluated

5.2

Distribution layout systems are explained

5.3

Fault-finding method for lights and starter systems, including lighting in hazardous areas, is planned using circuit diagrams

6

Evaluate alternator excitation system design

6.1

Different types of excitation systems and impact of load changes are compared

6.2

Type, location and function of components involved in excitation are examined

6.3

Function, cooling, failure mode and procedures for testing and changing diodes are explained

6.4

Functions of an Automatic Voltage Regulator (AVR) and how it may be incorporated into an excitation system are explained

6.5

Process of fault-finding in an AVR and types, causes and remedies of common problems are explained

6.6

The impact excitation systems have on output in normal and adverse circumstances is assessed

7

Analyse power management and UPS fitted to vessels

7.1

Operational functions of power management systems during high load, overload and short circuit conditions are analysed

7.2

Functions and components of UPS systems are evaluated

7.3

Limitations of power management and UPS fitted to vessels are analysed

7.4

System response under possible fault conditions of vessel power management and UPS are determined

8

Analyse vessel cathodic protection system

8.1

Cathodic protection systems and how they interact are analysed

8.2

Components of cathodic protection systems are identified and life cycle maintenance program is prepared

8.3

Modifications required for operating parameters of cathodic protection systems when operating alongside an active wharf or another vessel are determined

8.4

Likely causes of corrosion in relation to size, location or distribution of anodes or current densities are assessed

8.5

Other corrosion problems in shipboard environment that may be cause of electrical problems are appraised

9

Assess requirements and components associated with electrical systems for hazardous spaces on board vessels

9.1

Different types, limitation and nameplate identification of ‘E’ equipment are compared

9.2

Requirements of classification societies are distinguished from administrations regarding electrical installations on board vessels

9.3

Lighting and power supply requirements of pump rooms are identified

9.4

Safety requirements for electrical equipment and safety practices on board vessels and how these are extended when alongside a berth are analysed

10

Assess existing electrical shipboard equipment

10.1

Existing and new shipboard electrical equipment and systems are compared to assess future requirements as well as potential problems and preventative measures

10.2

Performance of existing shipboard electrical equipment and systems is analysed and cost effectiveness studies for modifications or improvements are prepared

10.3

Factors involved in commissioning new electrical plant are evaluated

10.4

Procedures involved in organising survey of existing plant are outlined

10.5

Procedures involved in making recommendations for new systems consistent with modified new ship building requirements are outlined

11

Appraise high voltage electrical motor propulsion systems

11.1

Safety requirements for working with high voltage systems are identified

11.2

Use of high voltage systems for propulsion and cargo handling is evaluated

11.3

Safe maintenance methods for high voltage switchgear and machines are analysed

Range is restricted to essential operating conditions and any other variables essential to the work environment.

Operating parameters include one or more of the following:

excitation current

insulation grade

operating temperature

speed

Marine motors include one or more of the following:

polyphase

reduced starting current motors

single

speed changing

synchronous

variable speed

Encapsulation includes one or more of the following:

drip proof

submersible

TEFC

Motor ratings must include:

continuous

short time

Operational problems include one or more of the following:

loss of insulation resistance

open circuit

overheating

short circuit

wrong connections

Motor starters include one or more of the following:

DOL

primary and secondary resistance

soft or electronic starters

star-Delta

transformer starter

Lighting systems include one or more of the following:

fluorescent

halogen

incandescent

LED

mercury

sodium vapour

Distribution layout systems must include:

emergency lights

safety lights

How excitation systems impact on output in normal and adverse circumstances must include:

loss of excitation

short circuit

Safety requirements include one or more of the following:

company requirements

manufacturer requirements

statutory requirements

Evidence required to demonstrate competence in this unit must be relevant to and satisfy all of the requirements of the elements, performance criteria and range of conditions on at least one occasion and include:

applying relevant work health and safety/occupational health and safety (WHS/OHS) requirements and work practices

assessing own work outcomes and maintaining knowledge of current codes, standards, regulations and industry practices

explaining advanced principles of lighting, cathodic protection, high voltage systems and imparting knowledge and ideas verbally, in writing and visually

identifying and interpreting complex numerical and graphical information in electrical diagrams and specifications for a commercial vessel

identifying and suggesting ways of rectifying electrical hazards and emergency situations on a vessel

identifying methods, procedures and materials needed for operating, maintaining and repairing complex marine electrical systems

reading and interpreting written information related to electrical circuitry and components on commercial vessels

using electrical measuring and testing instruments.

Evidence required to demonstrate competence in this unit must be relevant to and satisfy all of the requirements of the elements, performance criteria and range of conditions and include knowledge of:

alternating current (AC)/direct current (DC) voltage

AC and DC marine motors

alternators:

alternator excitation system design

construction

characteristics

synchronised operation

types

cathodic protection system

electrical:

layout systems

measuring and testing instruments

shipboard equipment

symbols, basic electrical diagrams/circuits

high voltage electrical motor propulsion systems

lighting systems used on board ships

motor starters for three-phase and synchronous motors

phase angle, power factor, and current flow

power management and UPS fitted to vessels

procedures for dealing with hazards and emergencies

requirements and components associated with electrical systems for hazardous spaces on board vessels

resistance, inductance and capacitance

safe electrical working practices

WHS/OHS requirements and work practices.

Assessors must satisfy National Vocational Education and Training Regulator (NVR)/Australian Quality Training Framework (AQTF) assessor requirements.

Assessment must satisfy the National Vocational Education and Training Regulator (NVR)/Australian Quality Training Framework (AQTF) standards.

Assessment processes and techniques must be appropriate to the language, literacy and numeracy requirements of the work being performed and the needs of the candidate.

Assessment must occur in workplace operational situations or where these are not available, in simulated workplace operational situations or an industry-approved marine operations site that replicates workplace conditions where advanced knowledge of marine electrical systems can be demonstrated.

Resources for assessment include access to:

applicable documentation including workplace procedures, regulations, codes of practice and operation manuals

technical reference library with current publications on marine electrical systems

tools, equipment, materials and personal protective equipment currently used in industry.

Performance should be demonstrated consistently over time and in a suitable range of contexts.
Copy and paste from the following performance criteria to create an observation checklist for each task. When you have finished writing your assessment tool every one of these must have been addressed, preferably several times in a variety of contexts. To ensure this occurs download the assessment matrix for the unit; enter each assessment task as a column header and place check marks against each performance criteria that task addresses.

Observation Checklist

Tasks to be observed according to workplace/college/TAFE policy and procedures, relevant legislation and Codes of Practice Yes No Comments/feedback
Effects of power factor changes on prime mover, alternator and electrical system are analysed 
Methods of altering load power factor by means of capacitors or synchronous machines are explained 
Methods of obtaining constant frequency from a variable frequency output such as a main engine driven alternator and/or variable speed drives for a self discharging equipment are explained 
Protecting systems available for shaft driven alternators are evaluated 
Construction and operating parameters of different types of marine alternators are compared and contrasted 
Cooling systems, leak detection, monitoring and protection systems in different types of marine alternators are compared and contrasted 
Procedures for drying out an alternator with a low insulation resistance are explained 
Excitation systems and methods of flashing alternator after loss of excitation are appraised 
Systems used for protecting against high winding temperatures, circulating currents, loss of excitation and internal short circuit are evaluated 
Different types and applications of marine motors are compared and contrasted 
Difference between types of encapsulation is explained and where they should be used is justified 
Motor ratings and effect of overloading on different types of motor are assessed 
Possible operational problems associated with marine motors are analysed and appropriate remedial action is devised 
Procedure for drying out a motor that has become unserviceable due to either long-term storage or immersion in seawater is formulated 
Effects of operating star connected motors compared with delta connected motors are distinguished and when this may be required is suggested 
Different types and applications of special motors for deck and cargo operation are analysed 
Differentiation is established between different types of motor starters 
Different types of starters are evaluated in terms of starting torque and current, and are compared to particular motor applications 
Simple starter circuit diagrams are evaluated and operating principles of motor starters are explained 
Documentation and circuit and wiring diagrams are used for fault-finding in motor starters 
Routine maintenance program for monitoring vibration and insulation resistance levels of motors is designed 
Common types and applications of lighting systems are evaluated 
Distribution layout systems are explained 
Fault-finding method for lights and starter systems, including lighting in hazardous areas, is planned using circuit diagrams 
Different types of excitation systems and impact of load changes are compared 
Type, location and function of components involved in excitation are examined 
Function, cooling, failure mode and procedures for testing and changing diodes are explained 
Functions of an Automatic Voltage Regulator (AVR) and how it may be incorporated into an excitation system are explained 
Process of fault-finding in an AVR and types, causes and remedies of common problems are explained 
The impact excitation systems have on output in normal and adverse circumstances is assessed 
Operational functions of power management systems during high load, overload and short circuit conditions are analysed 
Functions and components of UPS systems are evaluated 
Limitations of power management and UPS fitted to vessels are analysed 
System response under possible fault conditions of vessel power management and UPS are determined 
Cathodic protection systems and how they interact are analysed 
Components of cathodic protection systems are identified and life cycle maintenance program is prepared 
Modifications required for operating parameters of cathodic protection systems when operating alongside an active wharf or another vessel are determined 
Likely causes of corrosion in relation to size, location or distribution of anodes or current densities are assessed 
Other corrosion problems in shipboard environment that may be cause of electrical problems are appraised 
Different types, limitation and nameplate identification of ‘E’ equipment are compared 
Requirements of classification societies are distinguished from administrations regarding electrical installations on board vessels 
Lighting and power supply requirements of pump rooms are identified 
Safety requirements for electrical equipment and safety practices on board vessels and how these are extended when alongside a berth are analysed 
Existing and new shipboard electrical equipment and systems are compared to assess future requirements as well as potential problems and preventative measures 
Performance of existing shipboard electrical equipment and systems is analysed and cost effectiveness studies for modifications or improvements are prepared 
Factors involved in commissioning new electrical plant are evaluated 
Procedures involved in organising survey of existing plant are outlined 
Procedures involved in making recommendations for new systems consistent with modified new ship building requirements are outlined 
Safety requirements for working with high voltage systems are identified 
Use of high voltage systems for propulsion and cargo handling is evaluated 
Safe maintenance methods for high voltage switchgear and machines are analysed 

Forms

Assessment Cover Sheet

MARL034 - Demonstrate advanced knowledge of marine electrical systems
Assessment task 1: [title]

Student name:

Student ID:

I declare that the assessment tasks submitted for this unit are my own work.

Student signature:

Result: Competent Not yet competent

Feedback to student

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

Assessor name:

Signature:

Date:

Assessment Record Sheet

MARL034 - Demonstrate advanced knowledge of marine electrical systems

Student name:

Student ID:

Assessment task 1: [title] Result: Competent Not yet competent

(add lines for each task)

Feedback to student:

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

Overall assessment result: Competent Not yet competent

Assessor name:

Signature:

Date:

Student signature:

Date: