Sampling and testing are two separate
processes, each with its own set of required tasks
for a particular product. For this reason, we will
discuss each of these processes in terms of the
basic tasks involved for each product. Just as with
any other set of procedures or tasks, you should
never rely solely on your memory. Every task we
will discuss has a specific written procedure in
either the EOSS, the PMS, or an NSTM. You
should always use the specific procedures and
guidelines authorized for your ship. In the
following sections, we will briefly describe some of
the most important tasks and procedures. We will
also point out some common mistakes.
Understanding this information and remembering
the safety precautions you have just read should
help you become a more proficient and productive
engineer.
FUELS
Sampling and testing are continuous tasks that
allow you to make certain your ship receives the
best quality fuel and that contamination levels
remain within the acceptable specified military
standards. Fuel contamination can originate from
a variety of sources. Fuel tanks can be
contaminated by rust particles. Rust particles can
be caused by moisture from air vents,
condensation on tank surfaces, and the settling of
solids and residues picked up during fuel
transfers. Consequently, you may have to perform
some type of sampling or testing procedure each
time your ship prepares to receive, move, stow, or
use fuel products. In the following paragraphs, we
will discuss some of the methods you will use to
Figure 2-6.--Conductivity meter.
sample fuels. We will begin our discussion with F-
76 (naval distillate) because you will need to
sample this fuel frequently.
period. The newer meter does not require a warm-
up period. The newer model is shown in figure 2-6.
F-76 (NAVAL DISTILLATE)
SAMPLING AND TESTING FUELS,
You will sample F-76 (naval distillate) more
OILS, AND WATER
than any other fuel product. The information in
the following paragraphs will introduce you to
Fuels, oils, and water are essential products for
some of the more commonly used methods,
the operation of your ship. Your most important
equipment, sampling locations, and standards for
concern will be maintaining the quality of these
naval distillate.
products. By using the proper sampling and
testing procedures, you will play an important role
Sampling
in keeping your ship's engineering equipment and
systems in top operating condition. In the
Simply stated, sampling is a visual inspection.
preceding section, we have focused on the safety
It is the first, simplest, and most frequent
precautions you must use. In this section, we will
procedure you will perform on fuels. A fuel sample
discuss the basic procedures you should follow to
is a small part or quantity of fuel that is drawn for
sample, test, and analyze the quality of your ship's
visual or laboratory
fuels, oils, and water supplies.
