Generation, distribution, and use of electricity on board ship

Brief consideration is given to the problems involved in the use of electricity on board merchant ships. The applications of electricity to warships, whilst very extensive, are considered to be outside the scope of the paper. The various systems of generation in use, and considerations governing their adoption in individual cases, are outlined. The nature and situation of the services comprising the load are discussed, with special reference to the electrical equipment of (1) a large turbo-electric liner, (2) a Diesel-propelled intermediate liner, (3) a Diesel-electric tug, and (4) a large cargo vessel carrying refrigerated cargo. Particular reference is made to the refrigeration equipment of vessel (4), on account of its importance, and of the advantages offered in this sphere by electrical operation. The present position of electric propulsion is discussed, together with the probable future developments in this field.