Approved Engine Course (AEC 2)

THE MCA APPROVED ENGINE COURSE 2 CERTIFICATE

Overview

In terms of the MCA requirements for commercially and privately operated yachts and sail training vessels, the progression for engineering qualifications starts with the basic Approved Engine Course (AEC 1).  

After the successful completion of the AEC 1, candidates are eligible to attend the Approved Engine Course 2 (AEC 2) course.

It is possible to attend an AEC 2 course directly after the AEC 1, as there is no requirement to have held the AEC 1 for any stipulated period of time.

Only approved training providers are authorized to offer MCA approved engineering training.

What are the qualifying requirements for the certificate?

Candidates must be not less than 18 years of age and must have: AEC 1

What is the MCA Approved Engine Course 2 Certificate?

The objective of this AEC 2 course is to include additional experience and knowledge over and above that of the AEC 1 and provide students with theoretical knowledge and practical hands on experience, as laid down in the MCA AEC2 syllabus.

The aim is to enable them to meet the Certificate of Competency (CoC) requirements of the new common “Small Vessel” (Yachts, Tugs, Fishing Vessels, Workboats, Standby, Seismic Survey, Oceanographic Research Vessels and Government Patrol Vessels, of less than 3000 GT and Power Less than 9,000 kW with Unlimited Area of operation.)

This short course provides the base foundation for Small Vessel engineers, enabling them to carry out regular servicing of onboard machinery/equipment and by developing an understanding of possible faults before they become major problems.

The overall aim is to provide Small Vessel engineers with the necessary knowledge, understanding and proficiency to carry out safe and effective operations onboard.

What are the advantages of holding an AEC 2?

Properly qualified Yacht Engineers are very much in demand now, because of an oversupply of Deck Officers. The MCA’s requirements for engineering qualifications were perceived as more onerous than for the deck department and many aspirant engineers have opted for Yacht master training instead.

Qualifying experience for all the higher engineering qualifications is only recognized if the person holds an AEC 1, and AEC 2, meaning that no further engineering progress is possible without these certificate.

Along with this, Captain/Engineers of smaller yachts, will find their job prospects greatly enhanced if their resume includes basic engineering qualifications as well as Deck Officer certification.

What does the course consist of?

Over the 35-hour (five day) duration of the course the following topics are covered in respect of diesel engines:

• General principles of compression ignition engines
• Cycle of operation and construction details
• Fuel system
• Role of air in the combustion process
• Cooling, lubrication and electrical systems
• Power transmissions
• Hull fittings
• Pollution legislation
• Code of Safe Working Practices
• Bottled LPG installations

What does the exam consist of?

Candidate’s practical ability is continuously assessed throughout the course and there is a one-hour written exam at the end of the course which needs to be passed with a minimum of 60%