Remote Troubleshooting Using a Proven Process

Mechanical Solutions, Inc. (MSI) has successfully utilized remote troubleshooting by resolving a vibration and exhaust hood cracking problem on a 660MW steam turbine generator. The crux of the problem is the paucity of qualified troubleshooters, and the time wasted by qualified problem solvers traveling great distances to support critical equipment issues. MSI staff avoided traveling 12,000 miles (each way) to a region of the world that was threatened by the bird flu epidemic and insurgents. Similarly, shore side subject matter experts (SMEs) and knowledgeable shipyard engineers must more efficiently resolve problems aboard the United State"s aircraft carriers. There is neither the time nor money to waste traveling and supporting a single issue, when a shore side engineer or an engineering team can efficiently take on more problems if provided with proven remote troubleshooting tool kits. The proposed remote troubleshooting kit addresses electro-machinery systems aboard a carrier that include steam turbines, generators, boiler feed pumps, condensate pumps, circulating water pumps, refrigeration/HVAC systems, evaporators, electric motors, switch gear, and sewage plants. While the proposed troubleshooting process is proven, the concept of applying it remotely is innovative, with a potentially high payoff.