Generator
A Generator (diesel generator or genset) produces the electrical power a ship needs for propulsion auxiliaries, cargo systems, accommodation and navigation equipment. It consists of a diesel engine driving an alternator; a ship normally has several so that load can be shared and there is redundancy if one fails.
Generators run in parallel on the main switchboard, with an automatic power management system starting and stopping sets as the electrical load changes. Some ships also use a shaft generator driven by the main engine, and an emergency generator that starts automatically on a blackout to power essential services.
A ship without electrical power is a ship without steering pumps, navigation, cargo systems or safety equipment — a blackout at sea is a serious emergency. Reliable generators and good power management are therefore central to both safe operation and cargo capability.
What is a shaft generator?
A generator driven by the main propulsion engine through the shaft, producing electricity while the ship is under way — often more fuel-efficient than running a separate diesel generator at sea.