As a boating enthusiast or professional, it’s essential to know everything about the steering gear system on a ship. The steering gear system is crucial as it allows you to navigate and maneuver your vessel safely through the open seas. There are two main types of steering gear systems in a ship – mechanical steering and hydraulic steering. In this article, we’ll dive into both systems and how they differ from each other.
Mechanical Steering System
The mechanical steering system is the oldest and most widely used system in ships. This system comprises a simple set up, including cables, pulleys, and a wheel. The ship’s steering wheel is connected by cables and pulleys to the rudder. When the ship’s wheel turns, it rotates a shaft connected to a pinion gear situated on the rudder. The pinion gear, in turn, transmits the motion to the rudder stock that moves the rudder, steering the ship.
The mechanical steering system is straightforward and easier to maintain than the hydraulic system. Since it relies on mechanical cables and pulleys, it’s less prone to failure. It’s also much cheaper to install than the hydraulic system.
However, mechanical steering systems have some drawbacks that make them less desirable for large vessels. For example, as the distance between the steering wheel and the rudder increases, the mechanical system’s efficiency decreases. This makes it difficult to control and steer large ships, especially in rough seas. Additionally, the steering mechanism’s resistance increases with the cable’s length, making it challenging to turn the ship’s wheel.
Hydraulic Steering System
The hydraulic steering system is the newer and more advanced system used in modern ships. Unlike the mechanical system, it relies on hydraulic power to steer the ship. The hydraulic system comprises a pump, motor, and hydraulic lines.
When the ship’s wheel turns, it pumps hydraulic fluid into the system, which activates a hydraulic motor. The motor then turns the rudder through hydraulic lines, resulting in the ship’s movements. The hydraulic system’s design allows for smooth and precise steering, making it ideal for larger ships that are harder to steer.
The hydraulic system’s main benefit is that it provides better control over the ship’s movements, making it easier to steer the ship through rough seas. It also eliminates the mechanical system’s problem of resistance that increases with cable length, making it efficient for large ships.
However, the hydraulic system is costly to maintain and install. It also requires more maintenance than the mechanical system since it operates with hydraulic fluid, which requires frequent checking and topping up.
Wrapping UpBoth mechanical and hydraulic steering systems have their advantages and drawbacks. Mechanical systems are less expensive and less complex, making them ideal for smaller vessels. Hydraulic systems, on the other hand, offer better control and performance, making them the preferred option for larger ships. As a boating enthusiast or professional, understanding these systems’ differences will help you choose the right system for your vessel type and size.