Steering Gear Systems on Ships Explained
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Mohammad Jahid AlamSteering Gear Systems on Ships Explained
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Mohammad Jahid Alam- Steering Gear Systems Overview
- System Indicators and Alarms
- Steering Gear Tests and Maintenance
- Properties of Telmotor Hydraulic Fluid
- Four Rams Type Steering Gear System
Common questions
Powered by AIThe emergency steering system is crucial for maritime operations as it provides a backup method to control a ship's steering in case of primary steering gear failure, ensuring navigational safety and preventing accidents. The activation involves procedures such as disconnecting the autopilot, using a change-over pin to isolate the telemotor and engage the hand gear, and utilizing a dedicated communication system between the steering gear room and bridge. Regular testing is mandated, including emergency drills every three months and surveys, to ensure that the system is operational and that the crew is familiar with its engagement processes .
The main steering gear is designed for robustness, capable of handling maximum ahead service speed, and positioning the rudder from 35° on one side to 35° on the other side within 28 seconds at the ship's deepest seagoing draught. It should also be able to withstand maximum astern speed impacts . Conversely, the auxiliary steering gear, while still of adequate strength, is only required to steer the ship at navigable speeds, capable of rudder movement from 15° on either side in no more than 60 seconds under reduced sailing conditions. It must also be quickly deployable in emergencies, ensuring steering capability if the main gear fails .
Daily measures in the steering gear room include checking the pressure gauge of the steering pump, motor amperage on the steering switchboard, and physically inspecting the motor for unusual heat or sounds (hand touch feeling). Operators must check for any noise or vibration anomalies, verify that oil levels in tanks are sufficient without leakage, ensure that grease is adequately applied to the rudder carrier bearing, and inspect the integrity of the bottom seal gland. These checks are crucial for continuous safe operation to quickly identify and address potential issues .
Telemotor hydraulic fluid facilitates efficient operation of steering gear systems by possessing properties such as a low pour point of -50°C, low viscosity to reduce frictional drag, a high viscosity index of 110 to maintain consistent performance across temperature variations, a high flash point of 150°C, non-sludge forming and non-corrosive characteristics, as well as excellent lubricating properties, and a specific gravity of 0.88 at 15.5°C. These properties allow the hydraulic system to operate smoothly and reliably, reducing maintenance needs and enhancing safety .
The two main types of telemotor systems in steering gear on ships are hydraulic systems and electric systems. A hydraulic system uses fluid pressure to transmit control signals, which are typically smoother and less prone to electrical interference. An electric system, on the other hand, utilizes electrical control signals which can be more efficient in terms of transfer speed and integration with electronic navigational systems. Each type has its own advantages in terms of reliability and responsiveness depending on the ship's specific requirements .
Before departure, steering gear systems must undergo several checks and tests, including verifying the telemotor transmitter oil level, checking and replenishing the actuating system tank's oil, inspecting and greasing the rudder carrier bearing and bottom sea gland, starting the pump to check gear response, and assessing for any abnormal noise or heat, in addition to confirming proper loading and operation within specified timing (such as swinging the rudder from port 35° to starboard 30° within 28 seconds). These checks ensure that the steering system is fully operational and capable of safely assisting the ship in navigation, thus preventing accidents and ensuring regulatory compliance .
The Ward Leonard system is a type of electrical steering gear system that manages the speed variation of a DC motor from zero to maximum in either direction. This allows precise control over the steering speed, enhancing maneuverability and enabling quick adjustments to the ship's heading as needed. The system's ability to modulate power smoothly and maintain consistent control provides an operational advantage in terms of response and energy efficiency compared to simpler electric motor systems or purely mechanical systems .
Rotary vane type steering systems offer several advantages over ram type systems, including requiring smaller space for installation, lower installation costs, less weight, and reduced power consumption since they can transmit pure torque directly to the rudder stock . However, they also have disadvantages such as the limited strength of synthetic rubber-backed steel sealing strips, making them unsuitable for large ship gear requiring higher torque ratings. The rotary vane systems are more suited for lower torque applications compared to ram type systems that can manage higher torque, particularly with four ram configurations .
In a 'follow-up' system, when the steering gear is set to a required position, the rudder moves accordingly and remains in that position once the set point is reached, using a hunting gear arrangement for feedback . In contrast, a 'non-follow-up' system requires the steering gear to be set to an 'off' position manually once the rudder reaches the required position. This system uses a simple control mechanism with three solenoid valves and does not maintain the rudder's position automatically .
Safety devices integrated into ship steering systems include hunting gear for feedback control, buffer springs for absorbing shocks and controlling order speed discrepancies, angle adjusting stops (hand over position limit switches), double shock valves, relief valves, tank level alarms for oil, and overload alarms. These devices work together to maintain system stability, prevent mechanical failures, and ensure that the steering gear operates correctly even under adverse conditions .