Unit of competency Outline
Date retreived
22/07/2026 1:19 AM AWST
22/07/2026 1:19 AM AWST
Whilst all efforts are made to provide accurate and timely information from the relevant source/documentation, please be aware that the information supplied may not be the most current version. The accuracy of the detail has not been confirmed by the Department and therefore should not be relied upon without first confirming the contents.
Demonstrate advanced knowledge of marine diesel engines and systems
Demonstrate advanced knowledge of marine diesel engines and systems
Unit of competency
National Code
MARL6020A
MARL6020A
State Code
WG490
WG490
TGA Status
Replaced
Replaced
DTWD Status
Replaced
Replaced
State Implementation and Classification
Approved Date
05/02/2014
Field of Education
031701 - Maritime Engineering
Original Release Date
05/02/2014
Nominal Hours
45
Description
This unit involves the skills and knowledge required to analyse the operation and maintenance of marine diesel engines and systems on a commercial vessel. This includes evaluating fuel, cooling and lubrication systems; analysing starting, manoeuvring and reversing systems; analysing causes of vibration, scavenger fires and explosions; and interpreting combustion diagnostic equipment faults.
Notes
Elements and Performance Criteria
1 Evaluate diesel fuel systems
- 1.1 Optimum combustion parameters, means of adjustment and legislation requirements limiting exhaust emissions are analysed
- 1.2 Design modifications of pumps, camshafts and injectors for standard fuel types are evaluated
- 1.3 Variable injection timing and fuel quality adjustments in service are justified, specifying common methods of adjustment
- 1.4 Injection requirements for common diesel engine types, including combustion modifications for changes in engine service rating, are compared
- 1.5 Faults and symptoms of common diesel fuel injection problems are analysed and appropriate adjustment is explained
- 1.6 Work health and safety (WHS)/occupational health and safety (OHS) aspects of testing and handling fuel injection systems are explained
- 1.7 Operation and normal operating pressures and temperatures of fuel systems are analysed
2 Analyse cooling systems for main and auxiliary diesel engines
- 2.1 Thermal efficiency optimisation of diesel engines and causes of thermal loads on engine components are explained
- 2.2 Cooling media selection is justified and various diesel-cooling methods are evaluated
- 2.3 Requirements of a coolant are identified
- 2.4 Corrosion principles and combustion side corrosion problems are explained
- 2.5 Appropriate action to be taken with common cooling system faults is evaluated
- 2.6 How cooling systems are commissioned, monitored and stored during idle periods is explained
- 2.7 Reasons for load-dependant cooling of diesel alternators on heavy fuels is explained
- 2.8 Use of additives in cooling water is explained
- 2.9 Normal operating temperatures, pressures and flow paths of typical methods of cooling medium and slow speed diesel engine pistons, exhaust valves, cylinders, turbochargers and cylinder heads are specified
3 Evaluate diesel engine lubrication requirements
- 3.1 Principles of engine lubrication are explained
- 3.2 Different lubrication systems and demands each puts on oil are explained
- 3.3 Methods for lubricating marine diesel engine components are specified and common faults are interpreted
- 3.4 Conventional and synthetic lubricant properties and applications are identified
- 3.5 Sources of contamination and deterioration of lubricants are analysed, treatment, monitoring and testing methods are explained, results are evaluated and appropriate action to be taken is outlined
- 3.6 How lubricating oil is distributed to the guides, top-end, bottom-end and main bearings of diesel engines is explained using diagrams showing direction of flow, typical clearances and stating normal operating temperatures and pressures
- 3.7 Methods of crosshead lubrication are outlined and compared
- 3.8 Methods of medium and slow speed cylinder lubrication are evaluated
4 Analyse diesel engine starting and manoeuvring
- 4.1 Starting procedures for diesel engines for power generation, propulsion and emergency use are specified
- 4.2 Starting and manoeuvring sequences/requirements for direct-coupled reversible and geared propulsion diesels, including CPP applications, are specified
- 4.3 Common faults are analysed and appropriate action to be taken with diesel starting and manoeuvring systems is specified
- 4.4 Major components of a propulsion diesel engine typical manoeuvring and reversing system are outlined using labelled diagrams, explaining how remote, local and emergency manoeuvring is achieved
- 4.5 Methods of achieving reversing capability with direct-coupled propulsion diesels are evaluated
5 Analyse causes of vibration
- 5.1 Common materials used in diesel engine construction are identified, justifying selection and specifying typical compositions and physical properties of components
- 5.2 Dynamic loads and stresses are summarised, identifying service limitations, and different methods of component fabrication and reclamation are evaluated
- 5.3 Two- and four-stroke operating cycle forces, couples and moments, relating to design principles of crankshafts, bedplates, foundations and crossheads are analysed
- 5.4 Out-of-balance gas and inertia forces, couples and moments, and their relationship with flywheels, balance weights, first/second order balancing and hull vibration are explained
- 5.5 Factors contributing to torsional vibration are specified and methods of minimising or eliminating harmful effects of critical speeds are outlined
- 5.6 Torsional vibration dampers/detuners are explained using labelled diagrams, indicating construction features and operating principles
- 5.7 Calibration is applied to identify wear patterns, limits and means of restoring working clearances and limits of pistons, liners, piston rings, bearings and crankshafts, sliding surfaces and interference fits of typical diesel engines
- 5.8 Alignment and adjustment criteria of crankshafts, chain-drives, integral thrust bearings and crossheads are specified
- 5.9 Crankshaft deflection measurements are prepared and evaluated, alignment diagrams are constructed, and realignment procedures including restoration of crankshaft shrink-fit slippage, are proposed
6 Analyse scavenge and uptake fires, air-line, crankcase and gearbox explosions
- 6.1 Operational and design factors contributing to waste heat unit fires are assessed
- 6.2 Appropriate strategies for extinguishing/containing soot and hydrogen fires are selected
- 6.3 Hazard reduction, inspection and isolation in service procedures are established
- 6.4 Operational factors that may contribute to scavenge fires are identified and hazard reduction is planned
- 6.5 Factors contributing to explosive mixtures are analysed and hazard reduction procedures for starting airlines are proposed and evaluated
- 6.6 Inspection and test intervals are specified
- 6.7 Causes of gearbox and crankcase explosions in propulsion and auxiliary drives are revised
- 6.8 How risks may be minimised in service by hazard reduction is specified
- 6.9 Procedures to be implemented for hazardous atmosphere warning in oil and dual-fuel engines are evaluated
- 6.10 Relevant diagrams are used to identify operating principles of oil-mist detectors, crankcase breathers and explosion relief doors
- 6.11 Maintenance strategies are developed and criteria for piston rod scraper box inspection and maintenance intervals are specified
7 Plan safe working practices associated with diesel engine maintenance, operation and repair
- 7.1 Safe working practices for isolating main and propulsion diesels under all operational contingencies are planned
- 7.2 Safe working practices for machinery in enclosed spaces are planned
- 7.3 Hazard reduction procedures for safe working with flammable liquids under pressure, chemicals, acids and hydrocarbons associated with engine overhaul and maintenance are planned
- 7.4 Safe working strategies for diesel engine maintenance are planned according to manufacturer instruction manuals and product data safety sheets
8 Interpret combustion diagnostic equipment faults and relate to fuel injection and pressure charging systems
- 8.1 Two- and four-stroke theoretical cycle diagrams are produced and discrepancies with results recorded by diagnostic tools are accounted for
- 8.2 Combustion faults related to fuel injection and pressure charging systems are diagnosed, corrective action is specified and service values with trials or test bed figures are analysed
- 8.3 Methods of pressure charging diesel engines are evaluated, efficiencies are determined from records, efficiency losses are accounted for and means of correction are identified
- 8.4 Maintenance and emergency procedures for turbochargers and charge air coolers are planned
- 8.5 Design features of turbochargers and charge air coolers are evaluated
- 8.6 Relevant diagrams are applied to evaluate diesel scavenging systems, under normal and emergency operation modes
The range statement relates to the unit of competency as a whole. It allows for different work environments and situations that may affect performance. Bold italicised wording, if used in the performance criteria, is detailed below.
Fuel systems may include:
Conventional, low-inertia and dual-fuel (oil fuel/gas) injectors
Fuel line pulsation damping devices
Leakage protection
Uni-fuel and dual-fuel systems (high/medium viscosity fuel types)
Appropriate action to be taken with common cooling system faults may include:
Contamination
Different cooling water treatments
Normal operating temperatures, pressures and flow paths may include:
Bore cooling techniques
Honeycomb techniques
Strong-back techniques
Sources of contamination may include:
Bacterial infection
Methods of medium and slow speed cylinder lubrication may include:
Optimisation
Running-in requirements
Speed and load-dependant lubrication
Methods of component fabrication and reclamation may include:
Ceramics
Composite
Forged
Laser-hardening
Plasma-spraying
Welded
Hazards may include:
Acids
Chemicals
Defective or bypassed machinery protective devices
Defective or inappropriately adjusted exhaust systems
Enclosed spaces
Flammable liquids under pressure
Hydrocarbons
Leaking oil and fuel
Lifting heavy components both unaided and with lifting gear
Safe working practices for isolating main and propulsion diesels may include:
Identifying hazards
Minimising hazards
Safe working practices for machinery in enclosed spaces may include:
Handling heavy components
Use of hydraulic tools
Design features of turbochargers and charge air coolers may include:
Bearing types
Materials
Relevant diagrams must include:
Light spring diagrams
Fuel systems may include:
Conventional, low-inertia and dual-fuel (oil fuel/gas) injectors
Fuel line pulsation damping devices
Leakage protection
Uni-fuel and dual-fuel systems (high/medium viscosity fuel types)
Appropriate action to be taken with common cooling system faults may include:
Contamination
Different cooling water treatments
Normal operating temperatures, pressures and flow paths may include:
Bore cooling techniques
Honeycomb techniques
Strong-back techniques
Sources of contamination may include:
Bacterial infection
Methods of medium and slow speed cylinder lubrication may include:
Optimisation
Running-in requirements
Speed and load-dependant lubrication
Methods of component fabrication and reclamation may include:
Ceramics
Composite
Forged
Laser-hardening
Plasma-spraying
Welded
Hazards may include:
Acids
Chemicals
Defective or bypassed machinery protective devices
Defective or inappropriately adjusted exhaust systems
Enclosed spaces
Flammable liquids under pressure
Hydrocarbons
Leaking oil and fuel
Lifting heavy components both unaided and with lifting gear
Safe working practices for isolating main and propulsion diesels may include:
Identifying hazards
Minimising hazards
Safe working practices for machinery in enclosed spaces may include:
Handling heavy components
Use of hydraulic tools
Design features of turbochargers and charge air coolers may include:
Bearing types
Materials
Relevant diagrams must include:
Light spring diagrams
The evidence guide provides advice on assessment and must be read in conjunction with the performance criteria, the required skills and knowledge, the range statement and the Assessment Guidelines for the Training Package.
Critical aspects for assessment and evidence required to demonstrate competency in this unit
The evidence required to demonstrate competence in this unit must be relevant to and satisfy all of the requirements of the Elements, Performance Criteria, Required Skills, Required Knowledge and include:
performing accurate and reliable calculations
developing effective planning documents
producing accurate and reliable information.
Context of and specific resources for assessment
Performance is demonstrated consistently over time and in a suitable range of contexts.
Resources for assessment include access to:
industry-approved marine operations site where advanced knowledge of marine diesel engines and systems can be demonstrated
diagrams, specifications and other information required for performing basic calculations related to marine diesel engines and systems
technical reference library with current publications on marine diesel engines and systems
tools, equipment and personal protective equipment currently used in industry
relevant regulatory and equipment documentation that impacts on work activities
range of relevant exercises, case studies and/or other simulated practical and knowledge assessments
appropriate range of relevant operational situations in the workplace.
In both real and simulated environments, access is required to:
relevant and appropriate materials and equipment
applicable documentation including workplace procedures, regulations, codes of practice and operation manuals.
Method of assessment
Practical assessment must occur in an:
appropriately simulated workplace environment and/or
appropriate range of situations in the workplace.
A range of assessment methods should be used to assess practical skills and knowledge. The following examples are appropriate to this unit:
direct observation of the candidate demonstrating advanced knowledge of marine diesel engines and systems
direct observation of the candidate applying relevant WHS/OHS requirements and work practices.
Guidance information for assessment
Holistic assessment with other units relevant to the industry sector, workplace and job role is recommended.
In all cases where practical assessment is used it should be combined with targeted questioning to assess Required Knowledge.
Assessment processes and techniques must be appropriate to the language and literacy requirements of the work being performed and the capacity of the candidate.
Critical aspects for assessment and evidence required to demonstrate competency in this unit
The evidence required to demonstrate competence in this unit must be relevant to and satisfy all of the requirements of the Elements, Performance Criteria, Required Skills, Required Knowledge and include:
performing accurate and reliable calculations
developing effective planning documents
producing accurate and reliable information.
Context of and specific resources for assessment
Performance is demonstrated consistently over time and in a suitable range of contexts.
Resources for assessment include access to:
industry-approved marine operations site where advanced knowledge of marine diesel engines and systems can be demonstrated
diagrams, specifications and other information required for performing basic calculations related to marine diesel engines and systems
technical reference library with current publications on marine diesel engines and systems
tools, equipment and personal protective equipment currently used in industry
relevant regulatory and equipment documentation that impacts on work activities
range of relevant exercises, case studies and/or other simulated practical and knowledge assessments
appropriate range of relevant operational situations in the workplace.
In both real and simulated environments, access is required to:
relevant and appropriate materials and equipment
applicable documentation including workplace procedures, regulations, codes of practice and operation manuals.
Method of assessment
Practical assessment must occur in an:
appropriately simulated workplace environment and/or
appropriate range of situations in the workplace.
A range of assessment methods should be used to assess practical skills and knowledge. The following examples are appropriate to this unit:
direct observation of the candidate demonstrating advanced knowledge of marine diesel engines and systems
direct observation of the candidate applying relevant WHS/OHS requirements and work practices.
Guidance information for assessment
Holistic assessment with other units relevant to the industry sector, workplace and job role is recommended.
In all cases where practical assessment is used it should be combined with targeted questioning to assess Required Knowledge.
Assessment processes and techniques must be appropriate to the language and literacy requirements of the work being performed and the capacity of the candidate.
Replaced By
| State Code | National Code | Title | Type |
|---|---|---|---|
| AUG68 | MARL033 | Demonstrate advanced knowledge of marine diesel engines and systems | Unit of competency |
| State Code | National Code | Title | Type |
|---|---|---|---|
| J569 | MAR60313 | Advanced Diploma of Maritime Operations (Marine Engineering Class 1) | Qualification |