As a Chief Engineer facing a crosshead bearing failure at sea, you should take the following actions:
- Stop the main engine immediately to prevent further damage.
- Inform the bridge and the company about the situation.
- Obtain permission for immobilization from the port authority if near coastal waters.
- Ventilate the crankcase properly and ensure all personnel wear appropriate PPE before entering.
- Inspect the damaged bearing to identify the cause of failure. Look for signs of:
- Scoring, pitting, or cracking on the bearing surface
- Wiped out overlay alloy
- Reduced oil wedge dimensions
- Water contamination in the lube oil system
- Check the crosshead pin for cracks using Non-Destructive Testing (NDT) methods.
- Examine the crosshead guides and guide bearings for any defects.
- If possible, dress up minor damages on the bearing as per manufacturer instructions.
- Replace the damaged bearing with a spare if available. Ensure the new bearing is installed correctly following maker’s guidelines.
- Clean the pin and bearing thoroughly before reassembly.
- Record all clearances and compare with maker’s tolerances.
- Ensure proper tightening of all bolts and fasteners.
- Run the lube oil pump and turn the engine on turning gear to check for proper oil flow and unrestricted movement.
- Perform a running-in procedure as per maker’s instructions if a new bearing is installed.
- Monitor engine parameters closely during initial operation after repair.
- Prepare a detailed report of the incident, including photos, for company records and classification society.
- Review and implement preventive measures to avoid future failures, such as:
- Regular oil analysis and purification
- Proper alignment checks
- Scheduled bearing inspections
- Monitoring engine performance and power balance
