consecutively with a new series of page numbers
recorded in column 4 in feed and fractions of feet. These
beginning on the first day of each month
are set in response to a signaled speed change, rather
than the shaft revolution counter readings. The entries
Engineer's Bell Book, NAVSEA 3120/1
for astern pitch are preceded by the letter B. Each hour
on the hour, entries are made of counter readings. This
The Engineer's Bell Book (fig. 13-2) is a record of
facilitates the calculation of engine miles steamed
all bells, signals, and other orders received by the
during those hours when the propeller pitch remains
throttleman regarding movement of the ship's
constant at the last value set in response to a signaled
propellers. Entries are made in the Bell Book by the
order.
throttleman (or an assistant) as soon as an order is
Before going off watch, the EOOW signs the Bell
received Entries may be made by an assistant when the
Book on the line following the last entry for the watch.
ship is entering or leaving port or engaging in any
The next EOOW continues the record immediately
maneuver which is likely to involve numerous or rapid
thereafter. In machinery spaces where an EOOW is not
speed changes. This procedure allows the throttleman
stationed, the bell sheet is signed by the watch
to devote undivided attention to answering the signals.
supervisor.
The Bell Book is maintained as shown in figure 13-3.
The Bell Book is maintained by bridge personnel in
On ships and craft equipped with controllable
reversible pitch propellers, the propeller pitch is
ships and craft equipped with controllable reversible
1. A separate bell sheet is used for each shaft each day, except where more than one shaft is controlled by the
same throttle station. In this case, the same bell sheet is used to record the orders for all shafts controlled by the
station. All sheets for the same date are filed together as a signal record.
2. The time of receipt of the order is recorded in column No. 1 (fig. 13-2).
3. The order received is recorded in column No. 2. Minor speed changes (generally received via revolution
telegraph) are recorded by entering the number of rpm ordered. Major speed changes (normally received via engine
order telegraph) are recorded using the following symbols:
4. The number of revolutions corresponding to the major speed change ordered is entered in column 3.
NOTE: When the order received is recorded as rpm in column 2 (minor speed changes), no entry is made in column
3.
5. The shaft revolution counter reading (total rpm) at the time of the speed change is recorded in column 4. The
shaft revolution counter reading--as taken hourly on the hour, while under way--also is entered in column 4.
Figure 13-3.--Maintaining the Engineer's Bell Book
13-5
