THE ENGINE ROOM

MARINE ENGINEER
Anybody who wants to be a Marine Engineer must be ready and prepared to spend a
long period in training. Practical training is of crucial importance because the sea environment
is very demanding. A cadet engineer has to learn new skills and put them into practice. For
instance, he learns how to do machine repairs like opening up different bearings, tube sleeves,
and rusty items like nuts and bolts, as well as cleaning valves and changing filters.
The chief engineer is in charge of the Engine Department. He is responsible for all
technical operations of the vessel, including engineering, electrical and mechanical units. In
particular, he is responsible for all the propulsion machinery, power generating equipment and
auxiliaries. He has to keep documents on the machinery working as well as all the repairs
carried out on the vessel. He also logs fuel oil consumption. A varying number of officers,
petty officers and ratings assist the chief engineer. The engine officers hierarchy goes as
follows:
1. The First Engineer is usually responsible for maintenance and operations of the
engineering and technical units.
2. The Second Engineers responsibilities usually include the maintenance and
lubricating systems, engine room auxiliaries, and electrical equipment.
3. The Third Engineer is responsible for fuel and water systems. He also supervises
tanks soundings and monitors the boiler room equipment.
4. The Fourth Engineers responsibilities may include the operation and maintenance
of engine room auxiliaries.
5. The Motormans duties are defined by the head of the engine department and can
include, for example, the daily maintenance and cleaning of specific engine parts.
Watch Keeping
The machinery driving a vessel which is underway is usually operated 24 hours a day.
All running machinery must be controlled continuously in order to prevent any failure of the
equipment. The majority of control systems on modern ships are automatic. A ship may
operate for agreed periods with unmanned machinery, called UMS, which stands for
Unattended Machinery Spaces.
The standard system of watches adopted on board is usually a four-hour period on
duty followed by eight-hour rest. The word watch means both the period and the crew
working at that time. A watch is usually made up of an engineer in charge with an assistant
engineer and a rating. Their duties include inspecting the main propulsion plant, auxiliary
machinery and steering gear spaces. They should note any malfunctions and breakdowns,
report and correct them.
Time at sea is expressed using the 24-hour system, as opposed to the 12-hour system
commonly used on land.
ON LAND
7.00 a.m. seven oclock
2.30 p.m. two thirty
6.25 p.m. six twenty five
midnight
noon or midday

AT SEA
0700 seven hours
1430 fourteen hours thirty
1825 eighteen hours twenty five
0000 or 2400 twenty four hours
1200 twelve hours

265. CONNECTORS. Match each of the following connectors with the correct number in th

267. TOOLS. Match each of the followin g tools with the correct picture below.

picture below.

.. .
. ..
.. .
.. .
...
.. .

thread
chain
string
rope
rubber band
nail

...
...
...
. ..
...

. . axe
. . hammer
. pliers

screw
nut
safety pin
pin
bolt

... chisel
. . . screwdriver
.. . saw

... drill
... penknife
. . . scissors

. . . file
.. . plane
. .. spanner

268. TOOLS. Complete each of the following sentences with the name of a tool. Each dash (

represents one letter.

266. CONNECTORS. Crossword puzzle.

c ---

0
N

3
4

5
6
7
8
9
10
I.
2.
3.
4.
5.
6.
7.
8.
I)

---

N
E

---

c
T

0
R -----

1'19. TOOLS. Choose the right answer.

we use a screwdriver to put it on or take it out (5)

mountaineers use it to keep together and avoid falling (4)
it is used in dressmaking to hold pieces of cloth together (3)
we use hammer to knock it into wood (4)
we use needle to sew cloth with it (6)
it is made of iron and it is used to keep largl: slups 111 p111t 111 ph11 r ( 'i )
it is made of metal and is used with 8 to k1Tp cl1fk1rnl p111 I ~ nf 111111111111' 111p11l111 t 111
used with 7. to keep different p1111 ~ 11f 111111 h11w .. ll)p11hn I II
to pin 11 11ot1n to 11 11ot111 ho;11d wr 1i'r
p111 ~ ( / )

f() WI' Ill llp 11 p 1111 rl With It (II)

I. We cut down trees with an _ _ _ .

2. We cut paper or cloth with a pair of _ _ _ _ _ _ _ _ .
\. We knock nails into wood with a _ _ _ _ _ ~ .
4. We raise a car to change a wheel with a j _ _ _ .
\ We put in and take out screws with a _ _ _ _ _ _ _ _ _ _ _ .
6. We tighten or loosen nuts with as _ _ _ _ _ _ .
7. We saw wood with a _ _ _ .
H We bend and cut wire with p _ _ _ _ _ .
We break up roads, rocks, etc. with a p _ _ _ __ _ - .
1)
10 We draw corks out of bottles with a c _ _ _ _ _ _ _ _ .

I 'II lend you my .. .. . to chop down the tree.

a) axe
b) jack
c) saw
d) spanner
>

T he screw on the cupboard seems to have worked ... . .

a) away
b) loose
c) unfixed
d) unsteady
I must cut this sheet of paper in two. Would you pass me the . . ...
11) axe
h) d rn1d
e) pickaxe
d) scissors

I. Till' axr kit ly111p 1111

hcnch in the rum wn s now l'<1w11d wi th .

1) mud
cl)111t
1111 111111
1'111 :um111 oi l ;111 11 1111 t1pl11 11111 , 1h, 1t 1111vh1
11 il 11
11, n1 11 ho
, 1 w111
i11 "'" '~

11) tl11t

h)d 11Nt

11

6. These bolts are much too stiff to loosen by hand. Have you got a . . ... ?
a) jack
b) key
c) screwdriver
d) spanner
7. What is the use of having a hammer, if you haven't any .. .. . ?
a) bolts
b) hooks
c) nails
d) screws
8. The simplest way to get this nut off the bolt would be to use a .....
a) chisel
b) jack
c) screwdriver
d) spanner
9. A small ..... is handy for minor electrical jobs in the home.
b) nail
c) screwdriver
d) saw
a) hammer
10. He hammered a .. . .. into the wall.
b) nail
c) pin
d) screw
a) nut

270. HOUSEHOLD CHORES. Choose the right answer.

1. Granny is corning for lunch. Please ..... the room before she arrives.
c) polish
d) tidy
a) arrange
b) order
2. You shouldn't walk around with . . . .. feet . The floor isn't very clean.
a) bare
b) naked
c) nude
d) stripped
3. The attic was thick with ..... as no one had cleared it for years.
a) dust
b) powder
c) rust
d) sediment
4. Will you ... .. the beds at once! Our guests are at the door!
a} clean
b) cover
c) make
d) smooth
5. The house felt cold and ..... after weeks of bad weather.
c) watery
d) wet
a) damp
b) moist
6. It you don't like washing up, you could ..... into the possibility of buying a.,...,,.,..,_..~
machine.
b) look
c) order
d) save
a) ask
7. I must got to the laundry and . . . .. my washing.
b) carry
c) clean
d) collect
a) bring
8. Mrs Helpful has cleaned our house from ... . . to bottom.
a) attic
b) first floor
c) roof
d) top
9. The only way to clean the box is to ... . . it in soap and warm water.
a) brush
b) polish
c) wash
d) wipe
10. Don't forget to put the .. ... back on the toothpaste when you have finished
a) cap
b) cover
c) hat
d) lid
11 . She has to work hard to keep the house .. . .. and tidy with such a big famil_
a) arranged
b) neat
c) ordered
d) smooth
12. " .... . your feet before you come into the house," cried Mrs Tidy.
a) Clean
b) Polish
c) Rub
d) Wipe
13. Your .. . . . for today is to do the washing up.
a) duty
b) homework
c) Jabour
d) task

196

9. Although we now have eight chairs, I'm afraid this will not be _ _ _ _ g _ and
some of our guests will have to sit on that old _ _ t _ _ _ .
IO. I eventually found the scissors I'd Jost behind the chest of _ _ _ w _ _ _ .
I I. Our house has central heating, so every room has a _ _ d _ _ _ _ _ .
I2. Doors that go round and round are called r _ _ _ _ _ _ _ _ doors.
13. It is very difficult nowadays to find cheap and comfortable a _ _ _ _ _ _- _ _ _ _ n in Bucharest.
14. Everything in my kitchen is stored away- in _ _ _ b _ _ _ _ _ .
15. A door swings on its _ _ n _ _ _ .

*264.
l.

a
2.
a
3.

a)
4. Pl
a

5.
a'J

263. OPERATING HOUSEHOLD APPLIANCES. Choose the correct answer.

I. When you turn off the TV, please pull out the ..... , too.
a) block
b) plug
c) switch
d) wire

6.

2. The electricity failure is not dangerous. There is no need for .... .

a) alarm
b) cowardice
c) dread
d) scare

7. 1
a

3. When you ..... this red button, the machine stops.

a) hit
b) lift
c) press
d) pull
4. He ..... the tap but could get no water.
a) adjusted
b) controlled
c) opened

. I

9. ld) turned on

5. Where is the book of ..... for using this washing machine?

a) directives
b) instructions
c) orders
d) regulations
6. Can you help me? I can't ..... how to start this machine.
a) do in
b) get on
c) set down
d) work out
7. Don't touch that wire or you may get an electric . . . . . .
a) attack
b) current
c) shock
d) surprise
8. Mr Impatient kicked the washing machine to try to ..... it work.
a) cause
b) force
c) get
d) make

JO. 1
I I.
L.]

. I
-. 1

9. The door will open if you . . .. . it hard.

a) hold
b) knock
c) push
d) throw

IO. You can get drinking water by turning this ... . .

a) knob
b) pipe
c) switch
d) tap
11 . He wanted a bath but couldn't find the . . . . . .
a) cork
b) lid
c) plug
d) stopper
12. I . .. . . the door-bell several times but there was no-one at home.
c) rang
d) squeezed
a) knocked
b) pulled
13. Ms Forgetful can't use her hair-drier as she forgot to buy a ..... for it.
a) pin
b) plug
c) socket
d) switch
14. A food processor has become an indispensable piece of . . ... in the home.
a) device
b) equipment
c) gadget
d) machine
I5. Who's left the tap running? There's a ..... of water on the floor.
a) bucket
b) heap
c) pool
d) stain

192

.-

* 264.

OUT OF ORDER. Choose the right answer.

1. The bath water doesn't run away properly; I think the .. ... must be blocked.

a) conductor

b) hole

c) pipe

d) tube

2. The tap was dripping because it needed a new . . . . . .

c) washer
d) wringer
a) rubber
b) stopper

3. There is a lot of water on the floor. I think the washing machine must be . .. . .
a) dropping
b) leaking
c) oozing
d) seeping
4. Phone the . .... ! Water is pouring down the sti>.irs.
a) builder
b) engineer
c) piper
d) plumber
5. We'll have to use the stairs as the lift is out of . . . . . .
c) order
d) practice
a) function
b) movement
6. My washing ma2hine has .... . , so I'm going to the laundrette.
c) run down
d) worn out
a) broken down
b) gone out
7. There is something .... . with my TV. The picture won't come on.
b) missing
c) unusual
d) wrong
a) bad
8. I can smell gas - there must be a . ... . somewhere.
a) break
b) drip
c) flow
d) leak
9. He has a little . . ... next to his garage where he makes things for the house.
a) housework .
b) mill
c) workhouse
d) workskop
10. The central heating doesn' t seem to be . . ... properly.
c) warming
d) working
a) going
b) performing
11 . When I turned on the switch, the lights . . . . . .
c) fired
d) fused
a) cracked
b) expired
12. I can't open this case; the ..... seems to be jammed.
c) closing
d) lock
a) bolt
b) catch
13. He swatted a fly on the window and . .. . . the glass.
a) broke
b) cracked
c) cut
d) slashed
14. We shall have to have the deck-chairs repaired. The canvas has . . . . .
a) broken
b) burst
c) cracked
d) split
15. My binoculars were not actually broken, they just needed . . . . . .
c) mending
d) repairing
a) adjusting
b) curing
16. Most of the machines are . ... . as a result of an electric breakdown.
a) disused
b) idle
c) out' of work
d) powerless
17. I think there is something wrong with my lamp. I .. . .. a shock when I tried to switch
it on.
c) suffered
a) got
b) made
d) took
18. The water could not flow freely because the pipe was . . ...
a) blocked
b) bolted
c) loaded
d) trapped
19. She keeps a supply of candles in the house in case of a power ... . .
a) absence
b) cut
c) lack
d) shortage
20. I should like to point out that two months have .... . since you promised to come and
repair my television.
a) elapsed
b) expired
c) lapsed
d) transpired

c 13-Test Your Vocabulary

Get ready!

Before you read the passage, talk about

these questions.
1 What jobs do different tools do?
2 Why is it important to have the right tools?

f) Read

this section from an instruction

manual. Then, choose the correct answers.
What are the instructions about?
A installing a vise
B fixing faulty wiring
C installing new appliances
D safely using a soldering iron

2 According to the manual, what tool is used to

clip wiring?

screwdriver

A pliers

C a wire stripper

B an electric drill

D a soldering iron

3 What can you infer about the repair?

A It is very dangerous.
B It requires buying new wire.

INSTRUCTIONS FOR
LA
HEPA R
Secure the appliance in a vise to hold the
lamp in place and free your hands.
2 Remove screws from the covering plate with
a screwdriver or an electric drill. Remove
the plate to reveal the wiring inside.
3 Locate the wiring causing the bad
connection. Using pliers, clip the faulty
connection.
4 Strip the insulation from the faulty wire with
a wire stripper.
5 Using the soldering iron, apply solder to the
bare wires to make a new connection.
6 Replace the insulation and put the wire back
into the lamp.
7 Put the plate back and replace the screws to
seal the base.
8 Test the lamp to make sure it works .

C It fixes insulation problems

D It assumes there is faulty wiring.

Vocabulary
f) Match the words (1-7) with

the definitions

(A-G).
_vise

2 _ wire stripper

3 _screw
4 _ screwdriver

5 _ soldering iron
6 _drill
7 _pliers

A makes holes or inserts and removes screws

B twisted by hand to insert or remove screws
C used to grab, pull and cut objects
D piece of metal used to fasten objects
E removes insulation from wiring
F holds an object in place
G heats and connects metal objects together

G) Choose the word that

is closest in
meaning to the underlined part.

Speaking

1 Use the pliers to cut the wiring.

A clip

B drill

C strip

USE LANGUAGE SUCH AS:

2 Use soft metal to fuse the wires.

A vise

B clip

I'm looking for a ...

C solder

Can I ask what you'll be ... ?

What's the difference?

3 Remove the cover from the wire.

A clip

B strip

C drill

Student A: You own a hardware store. Ask

Student B questions to find out about:

Listen and read the instruction

manual. What problem does the manual
give instructions on how to fix?

Listening

Listen to a telephone conversation

between an engineer and a shop owner.
Mark the following statements as true (T)
or false (F).

1 _ The woman needs a soldering iron.

2 _ The woman is repairing a small circuit.
3 _ The owner offers two tool options.

With a partner, act out the roles below,

based on task 7. Then switch roles.

tool needed

choices

use of each tool

Student B: You need a tool. Talk to Student A

about which one to buy.

Writing

Use the conversation from Task 8 to

complete the engineer's notes.

g Listen again and complete the

conversation.

'1 ()()1. S llE(;() )J)IENnEn

1

Owner: Hello, ma'am. Can I help you find

anything?

Engineer: Yes. I'm 1 _ _ _ _ _ _ a soldering

iron.
Owner: Okay. We have a few different
models. Can I ask what you'll be
using it for?
Engineer: I need to repair some 2
Owner: Well, we have the Lanford 250
or the Hilldale 400.
Engineer: Okay. What's the 3
Owner: The Lanford 250 is for 4
_ _ _ wiring. The
Hilldale 400 is 5
_ _ _ _ _ _ small
circuits.

Engineer: I think 6 _ __
_ _ _ the Lanford.

Tool 1: _ _ _ _ _ _ _ _ _ _ _ _ _ __
Purpose: _ _ _ _ _ _ _ _ _ _ _ _ __

Get ready!

Simple Machines
People often think of machines as large
complicated devices. However, there are
many types of simple machines that
people use every day.
lnclined Plane - This machine is a slanted
surf ace that makes it easier to move heavy

loads.
Screw - This machine is turned to drill through
wood easily.
Lever - A lever creates leverage by turning
a long arm against a fulcrum.
Wedge - This machine can split objects and
push apart the pieces.
Wheel and Axle - This machine rolls objects
to reduce friction.
Pulley - A pulley is like a wheel and axle.
It uses a rope wrapped around a wheel to
raise and lower heavy objects.

Vocabulary
Q

Reading
f.) Read
this passage f
mark the followin rom
or false (F).

a textbook. Then,
g statements as true (T)

1 -

~b;~~;e makes it easier to move heavy

2 -

Turning
.
friction. a lever against
a fulcrum creates

Match
. the definitions
(A-E). the words (1-5) with

1 _ lever

4 _load

2 - simple machine

5 _ wedge

3 - wheel and axle

A a tool with one wide end and on

v1ng parts
an amount of weight that is lifted or carried

D a bar that rests on a fulcrum

3 -

14

Pulleys are used to lift and drop heavy items.

.

B a machine with few or no mo . e pointed end

E a circular obje c t with

a rod through it

Use the words from the word bank to fill

in the blanks.

complicated
leverage

Speaking
Q

pulley
fulcrum
inclined plane

With a partner, act out the roles below,

based on task 7. Then switch roles.

USE LANGUAGE SUCH AS:

Did you have a question?
Well, think about ...

A lever provides _ _ _ _ to lift heavy items.

2 Eric is constructing a(n)
wheels and rope.

I never thought of that.

with
Student A: You are a teacher. Help a student
think of simple machines used everyday. Include:

3 Not all machines are _ _ __

4 A ramp with a high and low end is a(n)

wheels

5 A lever requires a(n) _ _ __

pulleys

inclined planes

g Listen and read the passage. What is

a wedge used for?

Make up a name for your student.

Student B: You are a student. Talk to Student
A about simple machines.

istening
g Listen to a conversation between a
student and teacher. Mark the following
statements as true (T) or false (F).
_ The teacher asks students to define simple
machines.

Writing

Use the conversation from Task 8 to

complete the student's notes. Use today's
date.

2 _ The woman asks the teacher to define a

pulley.
3 _ There is a simple machine just outside the
class.

g Listen again and complete the

conversation.
-sacher: Hi, Paula. Did you have a question?
-

dent: Yes. Did you say that people use

1
every day?
/,

-aacher: Yes. We all use them.

:

dent: Um, besides the 2

can't 3

on my bike, I
any.

-;acher: Well, think about elevators. They use

4
-

to raise and lower the car.

dent: 5 _ _ _ _ _ _ . I never thought of

that.

-:acher: And we have an 6 _ _ _ _ __

right outside this classroom.
-

dent: Oh yeah, the wheelchair ramp.

f//11!. -

I
I

I
I
I
I
I

Date:

-~

I
I

Examples of Simple Machines

Simple Machine:
Example:

Simple Machine: _ _ _ _ _ _ _ _ __
Example: _ _ _ _ _ _ _ _ _ _ __

Simple Machine:
Example: _ _ _ _ _ _ _ _ _ _ __

I
I
I
I
I

1
-

'fJll>

15

Engineering is based principally on physics. chemistry. and mathematics, and their extensions
into materials science, solid and fluid mechanics, thermodynamics , transfer and rate processes,
and systems analysis.
Engineering as a profession involves different tasks. It can refer specifically to the manufacture or
assembly of engines, machine tools and machine parts. It is also used more generally to describe
the creative application of scientific principles to design, develop, construct and forecast the
behaviour of structures, apparatus, machines, manufacturing processes and works.
The function of scientists is to know, while that of engineers is to do: they must solve specific
problems.
See also: Chemical (12), Civil (20, 21), Electrical (16), Electronic (17, 18), Mining (22),
Petroleum (23, 24), Production (1, 2), Construction (15).

Different branches of engineering require different equipment and are based on different processes.
Branches of engineering
The following words/phrases are all followed by 'engineering'
chemical civil electrical electronic highway hydraulic industrial
mechanical mining petroleum production production structural

Equipment in engineering
boiler crane gas engine machine tool pump turbine

Processes in treating metals

anneal anodize electroplate forge found galvanize grind
harden mint plate roll soften temper tinplate

Notice the following adjective endings:

-al chemical mechanical physical structural
-ial industrial
-ic electronic hydraulic

Notice the following verb endings:

-en harden soften
-ize anodize galvanize

Notice the following nouns which are a plural form but are normally used with a singular verb
mathematics mechanics physics thermodynamics

M atch the following verbs with the correct definition.

anneal
anodize
electroplate
forge
found
galvanize
grind
roll
plate
soften
temper

to melt meta l and then pour it into a form , e.g. iron components
to make thin sheets of metal by passing it between large rollers, e.g. stee l
to shape metals by heating and then hammering, e.g. horse shoes
to make materials tough by cooling them slowly, e.g. glass
to make something softer, e.g. fibres
to heat and then cool metals to obtain the required hardness and elasticity,
e.g. steel
to cover with a th in layer of metal using elect rolys is, e.g. car components
to protect from rusting by coating in zinc, e.g. food cans
to give a metal a protective coat by using it as an anode in electrolysis,
e.g. car components
to po lish or sharpen by rubbing on a rough surface , e.g. stone
to cover one metal with a thin layer of another, e.g. silver plate

Complete the foll owing sentences with a form of the word in brackets.
1 In the
industr y,
develop processes for producing plastics,
fibres . medicines, etc. from simple chemicals. (chemistry)
2 Producing steel using the Bessemer process is one of the best-known _ _ _ __ _
processes . (industry)
3 Most _ _ _ _ _ _ _ devices need oil as a lubricant. (mech anics)
4 Following the earthquake. every building had to be inspected to see whether it had suffer ed
any
dam age. (structure)
5 Certain chemicals are added to glue to _ _ __ _ _ _

it. (hard)

6 Excavators and power shovels are two types of

equipment used by
_ _ _ _ _ _ when they are r emoving rocks from the ground. (mine)

Here is an extract from a speech made by a careers advisor to a group of students choosing their
future courses of study at university. Complete the speech by choosing one of the words from
the box.
machines highway mechanical chemical civil phys ics
electrical develop production electronic
Engineering students should have an understanding of maths, (a) _ _ _ _ _ and
chemistry. Working with pharmaceuticals , food, mineral processing and chem ical
manufacturing, a (b)
engineer is trained to understand , design, control, and
investigate material flows. If you enjoy problem solving and find projects such as the
Channel Tunnel and the Three Gorges Dam interesting, (c)
engineering may
be for you. You will produce creative designs at an economical price while paying due
concern to the environment. If you r interest is in road building then you may decide to
follow a specialized course in (d)
engineering. By studying
(e)
and (f)
engineering you learn about the design of
complete systems , such as computers, controllers , power and transport systems.
(g)
engineers plan , design and (h)
a wide range of things:
washing machines , cars and spacecraft. (i)
engineers work very closely
with mechanical engineers , to make new products at the right price , on time and in the
correct quantity. As well as designing and selecting U) _ _ _ _ _ _ and materials,
they also organize people and finance.

Building a car takes a long time - from research . through design to final development. First,
researchers need to determine what consumers want. and then suggest what kind of automobile
to make. During the design phase. new ideas are converted into tangible parts or products. At the
same time engineers modify existing parts and features for the new model and draft new plans
for the prototype (a working example of a new design). Then manufacturers begin to construct a
few prototypes. These are extensively tested in wind tunnels and dust tunnels, factory tracks,
water-proofing bays, desert heat. Arctic cold, and crashes. At the next stage a plant is set up to
build the new model and the necessary components. Product planners monitor the process to
ensure that the new car programme finishes on time and within budget. Managers must also
coordinate different activities. including producing the cars, purchasing materials. and training
the workers.
Marketing teams must then sell the car. Every year the major car manufacturers launch their
new models, but a single car design can take several years from the drawing board to the
showroom floor. A typical company will therefore have several new designs in various stages of
development at any given time.

Automobiles have developed over the years, both in terms of mechanics and design. Today's
automobile system is more efficient and safer. and the range of models more varied. A central part

of car manufacture is the workshop where car bodies are shaped and painted (the bodyshop).
Models
bus executive 4 x 4 jeep lorry luxury medium mini
multi-purpose vehicle (MPV) people carrier pickup small family
sports supermini truck van

Body shaping and painting

body panel cast cut fibreglass forge machine operator
mould paint shop press shop spray gun stamp steel

Automobile system

Alternator-------'.""'
Radiator--

------->,,

Exhaust system
Engine
Steering system
Power train
Electrical system
Coolant system
Fuel system
Brake system

Advertising plays an important role in promoting the features of cars. Read the follow ing:
advanced braking system (ABS) air conditioning ai rbag alarm
alloy wheels central locking climate control electric windows
immobilizer power assisted steering (PAS) sunroof

There are several steps in the process of developing a car. Put the following steps in the correct
order.
a A pla n t is set up to bu ild the new model.
b Marketing teams work to promote the new model and th e new car is la unched.
c Researchers analyse the an swers and suggest the type of car to be bu ilt.
d Engineers work to modify existing parts fo r the n ew model.
e Customers are asked questions abou t the sorts of features they would like in a car.
f Product planner s make sure th at the new car is ready on time.
g Tests are carried ou t in different conditions.
h A prototy pe is built.
Designers work to design a new car based on these suggestions.

Match the part of the car with its function.

steering wheel
exhaust manifold
radiator
fuel tank
brake line
silencer / muffler
battery
clutch
differential
engine
brake cylinder
accelerator
distributor
alternator

Here is a newspaper article reviewing a new small famil y car. Fill in the blanks with words from
the page opposite. The first letter is given to help you.

aunched soon after their

competito r's failure, the
new LOTE A 1 is the perfect
car fo r Mum, D ad and two
kids. Just back from its
(a) t
in the heat
ofth e(b) d
and
the cold of the Arctic, the
LOTE is the perfect small
(c) f
car. The
interi or is classy and
comfortable with surpri singly
good leg room in the back . The
(d) a
C
IS
highly efficient fo r the heat of
summer, but if you prefer the
carefree image, yo u can open
the (e) s
. There

holds brake fluid

provides the power
stores electricity
ensures that the rear wheels turn at a different speed to each other
when a car corners
produces electricity
sends an electric current to the spark plugs
carries waste gases to the exhaust pipe
makes the car go faster when it is pressed
used by the driver to turn the car
holds fuel
cools water from the engine
connects the brake cylinder to the brakes
reduces the exhaust noise
disconnects the engine from the gearbox while the gears are changed

should be no arguments about

how far to open the windows as
the driver has full control of
the (f) e
windows
in the back, and of course,
(g) c
~
! _ __
saves telling the kids to lock
thei r doors.
Driving this little beauty is
a real pleasure. (h) ~P_ _ __
a
_ _ _ _
~
s

makes those corners easy

and the (i) =a_ _ __
s
will
b
stop you comfortably in those
tight moments. Safety is also
high on the agenda here with
fitted U) a
fo r the

fro nt passenger as well as the

driver. A car (k) =a_ _ __ 1s
fitted as standard and an
( l )~
i _ _ _ _ will prevent
someone starting the car
without your permission.
It's a great-loo king
vehicle, bigger than the
(m) m
, less roomy
than the (n) = - - - - c
bu t fas te r than a
(o) v
! With
aluminium (p) =a_ _ __
w
and a price that's
less than anything else in this
range, it's one that's hard to
beat.

INTERNAL COMBUSTION ENGINES

Internal-combustion engines are machines that convert heat into mechanical energy.
In internal-combustion engines, burning of the fuel inside a tightly closed cylinder results
in expansion of gases. The pressure created on top of a piston makes it move. The backand-forth motion of a piston is known as the reciprocating motion (straight-line motion).
This motion must be changed to rotating (turning) motion to perform a useful function,
such as propelling a ship or driving a generator to produce electricity.
All internal-combustion engines rely on three things: fuel, air and ignition. Fuel contains
energy for engine operation, air contains oxygen necessary for combustion, and ignition
starts the process of combustion.
All internal-combustion engines consist of one or more cylinders that are closed off at
one end and have a piston driving up the other end. Cylinders may be arranged either in a
straight line (in-line) or in a V shape. When a piston slides downward as a consequence
of the pressure of expanding gases inside a cylinder, the upper end of the connecting rod
moves downward together with the piston. The lower end of the connecting rod moves
down in a circular motion. This makes the crankshaft rotate.
There are different kinds of internal-combustion engines. The most commonly used
nowadays are diesel and petrol engines. Diesel engines are extensively used in ship
propulsion, and petrol engines in the automotive industry.
FOUR-STROKE CYCLE
The four-stroke engine was first introduced by Nikolaus Otto at the end of 19th century
and since then it has also been known as the Otto cycle. The commonly used term,
however, is four-stroke. It takes its name from the four strokes of the piston needed to
complete the processes of converting fuel energy into work. . A stroke is defined as the
distance the piston travels between its top and bottom points. The four strokes of the
piston are known as the suction (intake or induction) stroke, the compression stroke, the
power stroke and the exhaust stroke.
SUCTION. During this stroke, the crankshaft rotates clockwise and the piston moves
down the cylinder. The inlet valve is open and a fresh air charge is drawn into the
cylinder.
COMPRESSION. The inlet valve closes and the air charge is compressed by the piston
moving up. Its pressure and temperature increase. By the time the piston approaches the
cylinder top, known as Top Dead Centre (TDC), the pressure is over 100 bar.
POWER. Just before TDC, fuel is injected into the cylinder by the fuel injector. The fuel
is atomised into tiny droplets. They are very small so they heat up very quickly and then
start to burn. The expanding gases force the piston down the cylinder, thus turning the
crankshaft. During this stroke work is put into engine.
EXHAUST. When the piston approaches the bottom of the cylinder, known as Bottom
Dead Centre (BDC), the exhaust valve starts to open and the hot gases are expelled from
the cylinder.
TWO STROKE CYCLE
This operation cycle is so called because it takes two strokes of the piston, or one
revolution of the crankshaft, to complete the process needed to produce power. In this
cycle, each event is accomplished in a very short time. Moreover, the engine requires
some special arrangements. First, the fresh air is forced in under pressure. The incoming
air is used to clean out, or scavenge, the exhaust gases and then fill the space with fresh
air charge. Instead of valves, there are special holes, called ports, which are opened and
closed by piston sides as it moves up and down.

So the piston is at the top of its stroke after fuel injection and combustion have taken
place. The piston is then forced down on its working stroke with the valves in the
cylinder head opening the exhaust port. The burnt gases then begin to be expelled and the
piston continues down until it opens the inlet or scavenge port. Next pressurised air enters
and drives out the remaining burnt gases. The piston closes these ports as it returns. The
air is then compressed as the piston moves to the top of its stroke. This is the explanation
for the name two stroke, with a downward power stroke and an upward compression
stroke. A two-cycle engine, therefore, has two power strokes for every one of a fourcycle engine.
FOUR STROKE DIESEL ENGINE
The engine is made up of a piston that moves up and down in a cylinder liner which is
sealed from the top by a cylinder head. The fuel injector, through which fuel enters, is
located in the cylinder head. The inlet and exhaust valves are also housed in the cylinder
head and held shut by springs. The piston is joined to the connecting rod by a piston pin.
The bottom end, or big end, of the connecting rod is joined to the crankpin, which forms
part of the crankshaft.
The crankshaft is arranged to drive the camshaft through gears. The camshaft either
directly or through pushrods operates rocker arms which open the valves at the correct
point in the cycle.
The crankshaft is surrounded by the crankcase and the engine block that supports the
cylinders and houses the crankshaft bearings. The cylinder and the cylinder head are
arranged with water-cooling passages around them.
The four-stroke has certain advantages over a two-stroke, which include higher piston
speeds, wider variations in speed and load, cooler pistons, no fuel lost through exhaust
and lower fuel consumption. It also consumes less lubricating oil.
TWO STROKE ENGINE
This engine is made up of a piston that is solidly connected to a piston rod. The piston
rod is attached to a crosshead bearing at the other end. The top end of the connecting rod
is also joined to the crosshead bearing. Ports are arranged in the cylinder liner for air inlet
and for a valve in the cylinder head that enables the release of exhaust gases. The
crankshaft is supported within the engine bedplate by the main bearings. A-frames are
mounted on the bedplate and house guides in which the crosshead travels up and down.
Some of the engine power is used to drive a blower that forces the air charge into the
cylinder under pressure. Additionally, because of a much shorter period the intake ports
are open (as compared to a four-stroke cycle), a smaller amount of air is admitted.
The main difference between the two engines is the power developed. The two-stroke
engine, theoretically, develops twice as much power as the four- stroke one. Inefficient
scavenging, however, reduces the power advantage.
DIESEL ENGINE TYPES
A diesel engine operates with a fixed sequence of events which are achieved either during
four or two strokes
Various engine designs can also reflect the way the piston acts. According to this, diesel
engines may be classified as single acting, when one side of the piston and one end of the
cylinder are used to develop power, and double acting, if both piston sides and both
cylinder ends are used to produce power.
Considering the way the piston is attached to the upper end of the connecting rod we can
distinguish two types: a trunk-piston engine (if the piston is directly connected with it)
and the crosshead engines (if indirectly connected).

Diesel engines usually have three general speeds ranges, in which they are classified: low
-speed diesels 50 300 rpm, medium-speed diesels 300 1000 rpm, and high -speed
diesels above 1000 rpm.
According to their drive, engines may be classified as direct-coupled engines, i.e. coupled
directly to the propeller shaft (also called direct drive engines) and geared engines, i.e.
coupled to a reduction gear mechanism (indirect drive engines). If engines can rotate in
both clockwise and anticlockwise direction, they are known as reversible engines. When
they cannot run in the opposite direction, they are called non-reversible.

1. Match the words with their definitions:

1 tube sleeve
2 nut
3 valve
4 screw
5 filter
6 machine
7 bolt
8 bearing

a. a machine part inside or around which another part revolves

b. a tube part fitting around another part
c. a small metal piece with a hole for fastening a bolt
d. a grooved metal rod with a head used with a nut to hold parts together
e. a device for removing dirt or other particles from air or liquid
f. a structure with many elements for doing some work
g. a device that permits the flow of liquid or gas
h. a sharply grooved metal rod that can be driven in to hold an object together

2. Form collocations by matching each word on the left to the appropriate word on the
right.
1 practical
2 sufficient
3 machine
4 rusty
5 successful
6 qualified
7 competency
8 working

a. period
b. bolts
c. certificate
d. knowledge
e. repairs
f. candidate
g. training
h. engineer

1.
at sea is not easy even for the best students.
2. A cadet should have
to prepare him for seafaring.
3. Minor
can be done on board by engineers.
4. Replace all the
with clean ones.
5.
have a combination of practical skills and theoretical knowledge.
.
6. There is a vacancy in our company for a
7.
are required if one wants to work on sea-going vessels.
8. The
cannot be longer than half a year.
3. Find the odd word in each line: (internal combustion engines)
machine
piston
power
combustion
expanding
propelling

engine
cylinder
force
ignition
rotating
burning

temperature
shaft
physics
burning
turning
driving

device
petrol
energy
petrol
circular
moving

4. Categorize the following words under the two headings: drive; power; combustion; rod
end; compression; connecting rod; energy; cylinder; propulsion; piston; piston top;
crankshaft
Engine parts

Engine operation

5. Choose the correct alternative: (four-stroke cycle)

1. Tiny fuel droplets complete / compress / convert / heat up very quickly.
2. The expanding gases approach / force / take / turn the piston down the cylinder.
3. The four-stroke engine expels / forces / increases / powers almost all trucks and cars
nowadays.
4. The piston burns / draws / injects / passes a fresh air charge of vaporized fuel/air mixture.
5. Engines atomize / convert / heat up / rotate the fuel energy into work.
6. The fuel injector draws / injects / opens / puts fuel into the cylinder.
6. Match the synonyms:
1.
2.
3.
4.
5.
6.
7.
8.
9.
10.

tiny
complete
increase
drop
turn around
charge
drawn
atomized
convert
squeeze

a.
b.
c.
d.
e.
f.
g.
h.
i.
j.

change
fall
very small
compress
rotate
vaporized
pushed into
load
finish
rise

7. Read the following statements and decide whether they are TRUE or FALSE:
1. Scavenging clears the cylinder of spent gases.
2. Four-stroke diesels do not have intake valves.
3. A diesel is an internal combustion engine.
4. A crankshaft never makes two revolutions in one cycle.
5. A piston sometimes closes exhaust ports.
6. The exhaust port closes before compression.
8. Fill in the missing words in the table below:
Adjective

Opposite
adjective

normal

Noun

Opposite
adverb

normality
unclear

legal
illegible

frequent

Adverb

possibility
probability
frequency
regularity

clearly
legally
legibly
possibly
improbably
regularly

9. Fill in the gaps:

than a four-stroke one, and its fuel
A two-cycle Diesel engine is less thermally
is much higher. The life of a 2-cycle diesel tends to be
than that of a
4-cycle model because of much higher
placed on the engine. Two-cycle diesels are
much noisier in
than 4-cycles, which makes them
for a wide
of pleasure boat application. However, a two-stroke engine is usually more
than a four-stroke one of the same size, since it fires on every
of
the
crankshaft.

10. Fill in the blanks with the appropriate word below:

forms, transmits, enters, houses, consumes, supports, ignites, joins, moves, covers
The cylinder head fuel injectors.
The crankpin a part of a crankshaft.
The cylinder head the cylinder liner from the top.
A spark plug the air-fuel mixture.
The piston up and down inside the cylinder.
A pushrod the action of a cam to a valve.
A 4-stroke less lubricating oil.
The engine block cylinder liners.
The piston pin the connecting rod to the piston.
Fuel through fuel injectors at high velocity.
11. Find the words to match the definitions. The number of letters and one letter in each
word are provided:
1) sequence of repeating events: C_ _ _ _
2) travel of a piston between its extreme points: _ _ _ O _ _
3) a unit of engine speed: _ _ M
4) the intensity of heat expressed in degrees: _ _ _ P _ _ _ _ _ _ _
5) an opening, a hole, a passage: _ _ R _
6) a form of energy: _ E _ _
7) an axial force acting on a shaft: _ _ _ _ S _
8) a centre line: _ _ _ S
9) a cylindrical moving part inside an engine: _ I _ _ _ _
10) a long metal bar _ O _
11) the suction stroke: _ N _ _ _ _

OPERATING PROCEDURES
These are verbs which are commonly used in standard trouble-shooting orders and operating
and maintenance procedures.
activate
connect
locate
overhaul
replace
take out

adjust
correct
loosen
place
screw
tighten

attach
disconnect
lower
position
shut off
uninstall

check
dismount
lubricate
raise
start
unscrew

change
examine
make sure
reduce
switch off

clean
close
install
lift
mount
open
relieve remove
switch on

Sample sentences
We are going to convert the assembly line because we believe it will improve overall effectiveness.
Due to the frequent faults in finished products. we are going to install new machinery.
As a result of the high cost of local raw materials. we are going to start im por ting from China.
Plastics are a versatile family of materials; therefore they are suitable for a wide range of
packaging applications.
Since PET (polyethylene terephthalate) is a clear. tough polymer. it is ideal fo r use in soft drink
bottles.

Form
1 Clauses of cause:
Here a subordinating conjunction links the effect and the cause:

The automotive industry uses plastics because they are du rable. resistant to corrosion and lightweight.
Here are the other main subordinating conjunctions:
as since
2 Phrases of cause:
Here an adverb phrase introduces the cause:

Polystyrene manufacturers phased out the use of chloroflu orocarbons (CFCs) in the late 1980s
because of concerns about the ozone laye1:
Other expressions with a similar meaning are:
as a consequence of due to on account of owing to
We always put a noun phrase after these expressions:

Because of the large number of back orders, we have put extra workers on the night shift. (not:
ef Ute 11wnber ef baek erders is lare)

3 Sentence connectors of cause:

Here a cause in one sentence is linked to an effect in the following sentence by a connector.
The maintenance team are here; therefore we' ll need to shut down the machinery after this shift.
The connector 'therefore' points backwards to the cause and forwards to the effect. Other
connecting words and expressions are:
accordingly as a consequence/ resu lt because of thi s consequently
hence (formal ) so that's why (i nformal ) that 's (t he reaso n) therefore
thus (formal )

Uses
Look at the following dialogue which demonstrates the use of expressions of cause and effect:
A: Why are we reviewing our quality control practices?

B: Because management is thinking of introducing a zero defect production initiative .

So we are starting a project group to look at current practices in production .
A: So, that 's why everyone has been called to the meeting.

B: Exactly. We 've scheduled a preliminary meeting on account of t hi s new initiative .

B: But I thought productivity levels had increased .
A: Yes , but because of this it seems that the reject rate ha s risen , too.

Match one part of a sentence from A and one from B to form sentences of cause and effect.
A
The reject rate has fallen
There is now a backlog of orders
They want to understand why customers
buy a product.
We have developed an improved product
Computer software has been made easier
to use
They have set up a computer network.
We are having to increase our prices
This is a very dusty environment,
He was not following safety regulations.

B
owing to exte nsive research and development.
due to more effective quality control.
Consequently, users can share f iles and
resources.
therefore, all workers should wear masks.
That's why they're studying customer
attitudes.
That's the reason he had an accident.
as a result of machinery breakdowns .
so more people use computers daily.
as a consequence of increased carriage
charges.

The following sentences contain a mistake. Find the mistake and correct it.

1 Owing a danger of falling objects, workers must wear a hard hat.

2 The driver wasn't badly injured in the accident on account from the airbag.

3 The car is cheap but reliable and that's the result for its popularity.
4 The manufacture of paper uses bleach and other chemicals. Consequently of this. the waste
must be treated before it can be disposed of.

5 Due to oil is used in the manufacture of so many useful substances, it is a valuable raw material.
6 Optical fi bres carry more information more quickly than copper wires, since copper wires are
being replaced by optical fibres.

Here is part of a dialogue between an architect and

someone who is interested in a local housing
development. Fill in the blanks with words from the box.

result because (2) why

consequence due account
consequently rea son so

A: So , these are the finished plans for the housing development. The site was previously
used by heavy industry and (a)
of this we will have to remove a thick
layer of soil. As a (b)
of this , costs will be higher than expected. As far
as building design is concerned, the houses will all have a regular shape as you can
see here on the plan on (c)
of cost considerations .
B: Why does that affect cost?
A: If you measure the surface area of the walls, you ' ll see that buildings with an irregular
shape have a greater surface area. As a (d) _ _ _ _ _ _ , more materials will be
required and , (e) _ _ _ _ _ _ , it will cost more.
B: I see. Now what about the foundations?
A: Well , the soil is very stable , (f)
shallow concrete foundations will be
sufficient. The walls will be wooden frame walls . That's the (g)
the
houses can be erected very quickly. The external wall cladding will also be made of wood .
B: But won 't the wind and rain damage the wood?
A: That 's (h)
we will use pre-treated wood. As for the roofs - well,
(i )
to local planning regulations , the roofs will have to be made of blue
slate. It's the traditional stone from this area and U)
of th is we have to
use it.

Complete the fo llowing texts using the correct preposition.

You may have to use some prepositions more than once.
between from on along
above through to

Signals pass (a) _ _ _ _ _ _ a telephone (b) _ _ _ _ _ _ the local exchange

(c) _ _ _ _ _ _ copper cables. Most exchanges are linked by optical fibre cables
(d) _ _ _ _ _ _ which the signals travel as pulses of laser light. Microwave beams sent
(e) _ _ _ _ _ _ dishes (f)
(g)

tall towers, link some signals. International calls go

undersea optical fibre cables or via satellites high (h)

the Earth.

around at of from to

Refrigerators keep food (a) _ _ _ _ _ _ a temperature (b) _ _ _ _ _ _ about 5C. They

work by evaporation. When a liquid changes (c) _ _ _ _ _ _ a vapour, it takes heat
(d)

its surroundings. In a fridge. the cooling process is done by a refrigerant

which circulates (e)

a system (f)

sealed pipes.

Complete the following description of an oil rig with the correct prepositions. Choose fro m those
in the box. You will need to use some more than once.
above on in from to in between
around close to of beside at along below

Surplus gas burning off

Helicopter

Recreation area

Drilling derrick

The Magnus oil rig stands (a)

resting (b)

Electricity generators
& water tanks

huge steel legs

the seabed. To prevent movement. a

large anchor is rirmly embedded (c)

A production platform is built (d)

the seabed.
sea level.

(e)

the centre (f)

(g)

the well. is the drilling derrick. Oil and gas

are separated (h)

the platform.

the bottom

(i) _ _ _ _ _ _ the derrick and a pipeline takes oil

Ul

the platform (k)

shore.

Helicopters carrying operators land (I)

the

helipad located on one side of the platform.

(m)

this pad there is an accommodation block.

The recreation area is found (n)

and (o)

the first level

the top floor the workers sleeping

quarters are to be found. The dining area is on the floor

(p)

. Walkways run (q)

one side

of the accommodation block and (r) _ _ _ _ _ _ the outside

of the platform. Lifeboats can be found (s)

the

accommodation block. Supply boats, carrying supplies for the

rig. can tie up (t)

one side (u) _ _ _ _ __

the rig and goods are lifted (v)

crane. Drinking water is stored (w)
located (x)

the boats using a

large tanks

the electricity generators.

Sample sentences
Let me give you a brief update about developments in the production area. On Monday,
components will be moved from the old storage area to the new one. This means that fork lift
trucks will need to move components out of warehouse 1 and into warehouse 2 . You will find
more details in the email I sent last week. There are two stages to the movement of old parts. Ir:
the new storage area, the parts will be stored on pallets on the top two shelves. From there th~
will be moved to their final destination according to the plan in the email attachment.

Form
in

A preposition comes before a noun . e.g.

the production area

[preposition]

[noun]

The most important prepositions of place are:

at from in into on out of to

Oil is transportedfrom the oilfield to the terminal by pipeline.

Corrosion in the pipes is extremely dangerous.

Uses
1 at
We use at to describe a place in general rather than specific terms:

In the event of a blowout at the terminal we evacuate everyone immediately.

We employ some 30 people at the pumping station. cf Twenty men sleep in the terminal, i.e. ins
2 to
We use to to describe movement to a place:

Then the oil is transported to the terminal.

The roughnecks fly out to the oil rig on a Sunday evening.
3 from
We use from to describe movement from a place:
After the blowout we managed to pull everyone from the wate1:
The safety officer has just arrived from headquarters.
4 in and into
We use in to describe a place:
Corrosion in the pipes is extremely dangerous.
We use into to describe movement into a place:
The drill bit is fitted into the drill.
5 into and out of
Into and out of describe movement; they describe opposite movements:
Drilling mud is pumped into and out of the well during drilling.
6 on and onto
We use on with objects which have a surface:
We've found some new deposits on the Continental Shelf
We use onto to describe movement onto a place which has a surface:
The oil is then loaded onto tankers. (Here the tanker is seen as a two-dimensional 11oa t in~
object.) cf. The oil is then loaded into tankers. (Here the tanker is seen as a three-dimen
object.)

BIBLIOGRAPHY

Brieger, N, Pohl, A. Technical English Vocabulary and Grammar,

Summertown Publishing Limited, 2004
Glendinning, E.H., Glendinning, N. Oxford English for Electrical and
Mechanical Engineering, Oxford University Press, 2004
Kluijven, P. C. The International Maritime Languahe Programme, 3rd edition,
Alk & Heijnen Publishers, Alkmaar, 2007
Lloyd, C., Frazier, J.A. - Engineering, Express Publishing, 2011
Misztal, M. - Test Your Vocabulary, Editura Teora, Bucuresti, 1996
Taylor, J, Goodwell, J Navy, Express Publishing, 2011
*

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