Each space is separated from one another by water-tight doors, to protect them in the event of fire or flooding. The Generator Room is the forward most engine space. This means that diesel engines drive generator units, which create electrical power, which drives electric motors which drive the propellers. At the forward end of the Generator Room are two flash evaporators, one of which is shown here. Flash evaporators are used to make fresh water from salt water.
Salt water is heated by the hot cooling water from the diesel generator sets.
Just forward of the Generator Room is the Compressor Room, where the ship's air conditioning and refrigeration compressors are located. These commercial-grade units keep the ship cool, and the food fresh, even in the hottest weather. On our way back through the Generator Room, we again meet the Maritime Administrator. This time, he's being briefed on the engine plant by two midshipmen. Pardon us as we move aft, to the Main Control Room, our next stop.