Observation of Wear of Marine Diesel Engine by Activation Analysis

The measurement of wear of piston rings and cylinder liners is one of the most important points to maintain a marine diesel engine. The wear conditions of engine parts have been usually examined by periodical overhaul. In this study, 252-Cf neurton activation analysis is applied to the estimation of wear without overhaul. The extent of wear of engine parts can be estimated from the contents of metal particles, which are produced by wear, in the circulating fluid such as lubricating oil or exhaust gas of the engine. In this study, wear of piston rings and cylinder liners are presumed by manganese contents in the cylinder oil drain of an actual marine diesel engine. The results of the analyzed manganese contents in the cylinder oil drain under variable running conditions show the good relation between the manganese contents and measured wear volume during overhaul periods.