SAMS - Society of Accredited Marine Surveyors Certified Vessel Electrical Systems Questions and Answers

Question 1

A surveyor inspecting a vessel connected to shore power notices rapid zinc anode depletion.
The shore power system includes a green grounding wire connecting the vessel's bonding system to the marina's ground.
According to ABYC standards, what device should be installed in the grounding conductor to mitigate this issue while maintaining safety?

Accepted Answer

A galvanic isolator

Answer

A reverse polarity indicator

Answer

An isolation transformer

Answer

A Class-T fuse

Question 2

During a survey of a 35-foot recreational vessel's DC electrical system, you discover several connections in the bilge area made with twist-on wire nuts and wrapped in electrical tape. Which of the following best describes this finding based on ABYC E-11 standards?

Accepted Answer

A significant deficiency, as wire nuts are not permitted for DC connections in marine environments.

Answer

Acceptable, if the connections are tight and well-taped.

Answer

Acceptable, as long as the bilge remains dry.

Answer

A minor deficiency, acceptable if replaced during the next scheduled maintenance.

Question 3

According to ABYC standards for DC wiring color codes, which color wire should a surveyor expect to find connected to the negative main conductor?

Accepted Answer

Black or Yellow

Answer

Red

Answer

Green or Green with a Yellow Stripe

Answer

Purple

Question 4

A surveyor is inspecting the installation of a new lithium-ion (LiFePO4) house battery bank. According to ABYC E-13, which of the following is a mandatory requirement for the installation?

Accepted Answer

The system must include a Battery Management System (BMS) to protect against overcharging and other unsafe conditions.

Answer

The battery bank must be located in the engine compartment for warmth.

Answer

The battery casing must be painted red for easy identification.

Answer

The system must be directly vented to the vessel's exterior.

Question 5

While inspecting the AC shore power system on a yacht, the surveyor notes that an electrical device is installed in the engine compartment where gasoline vapors could potentially accumulate. What specific characteristic must this device have to be considered safe for this location?

Accepted Answer

It must be 'Ignition Protected'.

Answer

It must be rated for at least 240 volts.

Answer

It must be connected with tinned copper wiring.

Answer

It must be housed in a sealed plastic enclosure.

Question 6

What is the maximum allowable voltage drop recommended by ABYC for critical circuits, such as navigation lights and bilge pumps?

Accepted Answer

3%

Answer

1%

Answer

10%

Answer

15%