In the world of marine electrical engineering, it is easy to rely solely on past experience when solving problems. After all, experience is valuable. It gives us quick recall of solutions that worked before. But there is a catch: ships change, systems change, and what worked on one vessel may not apply to another.

As an Electro Technical Officer (ETO), your greatest advantage is not just what you have seen before. It is how will you understand system operations and apply engineering principles in a logical sequence. This is what we call the systematic approach to troubleshooting.

Why Past Experience Alone is Not Enough

Imagine joining a new ship where you have never worked on a certain automation or electrical system before. You encounter a fault, and the onboard staff tells you, “This is what we always do when this happens.”

Sure, it is easy to just follow their advice, but without understanding why that action solves the problem, you are working blindly. If the situation changes or the root cause is different, you might waste time or even make the problem worse.

The Core of the Systematic Approach

A systematic approach to troubleshooting means:

1. Understanding system operation – Before jumping into repairs, study the system’s design, control logic, and operational flow.
2. Identifying the fault path – Trace the signal, control, or power flow step-by-step until you find where it deviates from normal operation.
3. Applying Engineering knowledge- Combine your theoretical understanding of electrical engineering with the system’s logic.
4. Verifying the cause- Confirm the suspected fault before replacing parts or making adjustments.
5. Documenting the solution- Leave behind clear records so the next crew understands what was done and why.

Example : Load Dependent Cylinder Liner Cooling System

On my blog, I have shared a real cause about troubleshooting a Load Dependent Cylinder Liner Cooling System. The issue was solved not by guesswork, but by fully understanding system’s operation, applying logical reasoning, and combining it with electrical engineering knowledge.

This example highlights the true value of a systematic approach- being able to pinpoint the root cause, even when you have never encountered that exact problem before.

The Big Advantage

When you master the systematic approach, you can walk onto any ship _ tanker, bulk carrier, container vessel, or passenger ship and troubleshoot confidently, even without prior experience on that specific system.

It is not about remembering “what to do” for every possible fault.

It is about knowing how to think through any fault.

Pro tip for new ETOs

If someone tells you, “This is how we usually fix it,” your next question should always be, “ Why does that work?” Understanding why is the foundation of the systematic approach.

Kyaw Soe Aung

10- Aug -25 , 0845 HR