9.2 Engines (General)
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Statutory Documents - IMO Publications and Documents - International Codes - DSC Code - Code of Safety for Dynamically Supported Craft – Resolution A.373(X) - Chapter 9 - Machinery - 9.2 Engines (General)

9.2 Engines (General)

  9.2.1 The design of the engine should be such that:

  • (a) the power output can be controlled within the approved limits;

  • (b) the probability of an overspeed leading to hazard of the craft or occupants is extremely remotefootnote;

  • (c) safety devices do not cause complete engine shut-down without prior warning, except where it is essential.

  9.2.2 The engine and its mountings should be of adequate strength and stiffness to enable it to withstand, when suitably supported, the most adverse combination of loads without exceeding acceptable stress levels for the material concerned, which should include:

  • (a) loads arising from normal operation of the engine and reasonably probable (see Note) failure conditions;

  • (b) vibration loads likely to occur under normal and anticipated fault conditions agreed to by the Administration; and

  • (c) inertia and gyroscopic loads.

  9.2.3 Each engine should be provided with:

  • (a) an emergency overspeed shut-down device connected, where possible, directly to the engine shaft; and

  • (b) at least two means for stopping the engine under any operating conditions.

  9.2.4 The major components of the engine should have adequate strength to withstand both the thermal and dynamic conditions of normal operation and any excessive thermal and dynamic conditions that may result from malfunction of the engine. The engine should not be damaged by a limited operation at a speed or at temperatures exceeding the normal values but within the range of the protective devices. Such operation should be considered in determining the service life of the engine.

  9.2.5 The design should be such as to avoid the risk of major rupture of casings in the event of a local failure of, or consequent to, local damage to the casing. Particular consideration should be given to those casings which are subjected to high stress due to internal pressure.

  9.2.6 The design of the engine should be such as to minimize the risk of fire or explosion and to enable compliance with the fire precaution requirements of Chapter 7.

  9.2.7 Provision should be made to drain all excess fuel and oil to a safe position so as to avoid a fire hazard.

  9.2.8 Whenever practical, the integrity of the engine should not be unduly affected by the failure of components driven by it.

  9.2.9 Reasonable provision should be made in engines for the connexion of adequate instrumentation to enable the crew to monitor engine operation and assess trends towards unsafe conditions. The overall limits of accuracy required of any instruments to be fitted should be stated.

  9.2.10 The Administration should be satisfied in respect of any engine installed in a craft, that

  • (a) the probability of a directly hazardous failure (having regard to the position and protection afforded by the installation) is extremely remotefootnote; and

  • (b) the probability of loss of power is acceptably low having regard to the duty of the craft and the duty of the engine in it.

The Administration may take into account tests, investigations and operating experience on other engines of the type or related types in deciding on the evidence needed in the particular application.

  9.2.11 Ventilation arrangements to engine spaces should ensure:

  • (a) an adequate supply of air to the engine; and

  • (b) safety of personnel when machinery is operating at full power in any operating conditions.

  9.2.12 Measures should be taken to reduce engine noise and vibration in machinery spaces so that they are kept within acceptable levels as determined by the Administration having regard to the need for entry to the space during operation. If this noise cannot be sufficiently reduced, the source of excessive noise should be suitably insulated and isolated or a refuge from noise should be provided if the space requires manned supervision. Ear protectors should be provided for personnel required to enter such spaces.

  9.2.13 Where two or more engines are employed, the systems servicing them should be so designed that, as far as practicable, failure of or explosion in one engine should not damage or impair the functioning of the others.


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