Marine News: Engine Mount Foundation Assessment: Ensuring Precision and Performance

We recently performed a crucial maintenance task involving the main engines on both the port and starboard sides of a government vessel. The core objective of this job was to perform precision flatness measurements of the engine mount foundations following the removal of the main engines. This process is important in ensuring the engines are mounted accurately.

The vessel is currently undergoing a comprehensive engine changeout process for both the port and starboard sides. Prior to the measurements, both main engines were fully disconnected, with their couplings carefully removed to facilitate a thorough examination and precise measurement.

The procedure involved several key steps to guarantee the accuracy and reliability of the measurements:

Scribing Engine Mount Positions: The exact position of each engine mount was scribed onto its corresponding engine mount foundation soleplate. This initial step will maintain the correct alignment and positioning of the engine mounts during the reinstallation process.

Removal of Hold Down Bolts: This step was essential for accessing the soleplates and conducting the flatness measurements.

Precision Flatness Measurements: Utilizing the advanced FARO Vantage S6 geometric laser tracker, precision flatness measurements were taken for each individual soleplate. A best fit plane measurement between all soleplates was conducted. These measurements are important for identifying any deviations or irregularities in the flatness of the foundation, which could impact the engine's performance and alignment.

This assessment ensures that the engine mount foundations meet the stringent specifications required for optimal engine performance. By leveraging the precision of the FARO Vantage S6 geometric laser tracker, the vessel can confidently proceed with the engine changeouts, knowing that the foundations provide a solid and accurate base for the new engines.