T&T: Engine and Fuel Log - Excel Workbook

[TK Allen]

A few days ago I offered (free) to list members an Excel workbook I
developed.  This workbook provides a convenient way to track engine hours
and fuel purchases which are then used to calculate and graph several
metrics including fuel consumption rate.



Several people took me up on my offer and many provided valuable feedback
including pointing out some relatively minor bugs which have now been fixed.
 One person suggested a significant improvement.   This suggestion was to
"internationalize" the workbook.  I originally set the workbook up to record
fuel volumes in US Gallons and purchases in US Dollars.  It was pointed out
that fuel is often purchased in litres or Imperial Gallons and paid for in
various currencies.  I though this was an excellent suggestion so I revised
the workbook accordingly.  Data can now be recorded in whatever volume unit
and currency the purchase was made in.  Data is then converted to US Gallons
and US Dollars for calculations and graphing.



There is one other issue I want to emphasize.  The workbook calculates a
fuel consumption rate in gallons (US) per hour.  It is very important to
understand that this consumption rate is for ALL fuel burning equipment
COMBINED.  My original idea was to plot consumption rates for each engine
and generator.  However, I quickly realized that in order to do that fuel
volume readings for each piece of equipment would be needed.  This means the
boat owner would need to have flow meters on each engine's fuel line and
record these data regularly.  Off-list discussion with a couple of members
convinced me that this is rarely the case.  I just want to be sure that all
those who use this workbook understand this important point.



So  my offer still stands.  Anyone who would like a free copy of the
workbook, please contact me off-list and I will send it to you.  As always,
your comments and suggestions are welcomed.



I will send the revised workbook to all who have requested it so far.  If
you don't receive one in the next day or so, email me and I will get it to
you.



Thanks again to all those who provided comments and suggestions.  It is
greatly appreciated.



TK Allen