Marine diesel engines are internal combustion engines that use heavy fuel oil and compressed air to generate power. Within the larger system, the main engine is used for propulsion while the auxiliary engine generates electricity for the ship. Additionally, marine diesel engines work on the principle of the dual combustion cycle; similar to engines used in many modern cars, this may include a four-stroke cycle involving intake, compression, power, and exhaust. However, due to the combustive nature of heavy fuel oil used in diesel engines, the combustion cycle may also be confined to two strokes wherein the compression of hot air and diesel fuel is enough to cause the mixture to self-ignite.  Read more >>

Modern electronic assemblies are often quite complex, featuring a wide variety of parts that work together to establish functionality. Many of these various parts are often known by acronyms to simplify discussion, though this can cause issues when acronyms and parts are fairly similar to one another. An example of this is the printed wiring board (PWB), that of which may be conflated with a printed circuit board (PCB) as a result of their close names. Despite this, there is a difference between the two, making it important that one has a basic understanding of printed wiring boards, their design, and their use. Read more >>

As the marine propulsion systems/engine market is gaining considerable traction for the ability to power massive cargo ships, it is only becoming more apparent that the demand for these sustainable engines is on the rise. Marine propulsion systems propel ships through water, ensuring a better safety standard for the marine ecosystem and cost efficiency. With the intent to fight pollution, worldwide emission reduction goals have been set for the maritime sector that can be achieved with such systems. Read more >>

A generator is an important device for producing electrical energy through the conversion of mechanical energy by means of electromagnetic induction. Generators vary in design and components; however, specific types of generators will contain the same basic components. For this blog, we will be focusing on key parts that make up an AC generator, also known as an alternator. When in use, this type of generator converts mechanical energy into AC voltage and current, and it differs from a DC generator in its use of alternating current rather than direct current. The basic components of an AC generator include field windings, an armature, slip rings, and brushes. Read more >>

Engines, or motors as they are sometimes called, are complex machines that convert one or more forms of energy into mechanical energy. They find use in countless apparatuses, allowing systems to run optimally. Furthermore, they vary based on use, each featuring distinguishing characteristics. Marine engines in particular are just one type of motor that has a unique way of converting energy and generating rotation. Read more >>