Oilers/Plant Tenders (HHC) Civil Service Practice Exam

How are the cylinders of large diesel engines of the crosshead type usually lubricated?

1. Manual oiling

2. Mechanical force feed lubricators

3. Gravity feed lubrication

4. Oil mist systems

The correct answer is: Mechanical force feed lubricators

Large diesel engines of the crosshead type typically use mechanical force feed lubricators for cylinder lubrication. This method involves a system that delivers oil under pressure to the critical areas of the engine, ensuring a consistent and reliable supply of lubricant. This is vital for minimizing friction and wear on engine components, especially under the high-stress conditions present in large diesel engines. The mechanical force feed system enables better control over the quantity and timing of oil delivery, which helps maintain proper lubrication throughout the engine's operation, enhancing efficiency and longevity. While other lubrication methods such as manual oiling, gravity feed lubrication, and oil mist systems are used in various applications, they may not provide the same level of protection and reliability required in the high-performance environment of crosshead-type diesel engines. Manual oiling can be labor-intensive and less consistent, gravity feed can be insufficient under high-load conditions, and oil mist systems, while useful in some scenarios, may not adequately lubricate all the necessary surfaces within large engines. This makes mechanical force feed lubricators the preferred choice for this type of engine.