Question 58 CEL02 - Chief Engineer - Limited (Alt)
For the purposes of shipboard practice, voltages above what threshold would be considered high voltage?
The Correct Answer is B **Explanation for Option B (1000 VAC):** Option B (1000 VAC) is the correct threshold because, internationally and under major regulatory bodies (such as the International Electrotechnical Commission - IEC, and maritime classification societies like Lloyd's Register or DNV), electrical systems on ships are strictly divided into low voltage and high voltage categories. The universal maritime and industrial standard defines **high voltage** (HV) as any voltage exceeding **1000 VAC (or 1500 VDC)**. Voltages at or below 1000 VAC are classified as low voltage (LV), even though they pose significant danger. This distinction is critical for setting safety procedures, equipment design requirements (e.g., insulation levels), and personnel training (requiring specific certification for HV work). **Explanation of Why Other Options Are Incorrect:** * **A) 440 VAC:** This voltage is the standard primary distribution voltage used for motor loads (pumps, compressors) on almost all modern ships. While dangerous, 440 VAC is universally classified as **Low Voltage (LV)** in maritime and industrial practice. * **C) 4160 VAC:** While 4160 VAC (or 4.16 kV) is a common medium-voltage distribution level for large ships utilizing HV systems, it is already well **above** the 1000 VAC threshold. If a ship uses 4160 VAC, the entire system is classified as high voltage, meaning 4160 VAC is a specific voltage *within* the HV classification, not the threshold that defines it. * **D) 6600 VAC:** Similar to 4160 VAC, 6600 VAC (or 6.6 kV) is a very common distribution voltage used on large cruise ships, LNG carriers, or drill ships for main propulsion and large thrusters. It is significantly higher than the defining threshold and is definitively classified as **High Voltage**.
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