Steering Gears – two ram, hydraulic
With reference to two ram steering gears which incorporate spherical bearings:
(a) sketch an arrangement of rams and tiller, including fittings;(6)
(b) explain why spherical bearings are required on the ram ends.(4)
Question 5. Most, not all, make a reasonable sketch but few can then relate the sketch, or use it, to show the need for spherical bearings.
Sketch a 2-ram type steering gear including the hydraulic circuit, labelling ALL components.(10)
2.Quiz. Study Notes
With reference to a hydraulic steering gear, describe TWO methods that may be used to prevent the idle pump from motoring.(10)
3.Quiz. Study Notes
With reference to a hydraulic steering gear:
(a) state the purpose of the hunting gear;(2)
(b) explain, with the aid of sketches, the action of the hunting gear.(8)
4.Quiz. Study Notes
With reference to steering gears, explain the meaning of EACH of the following
(a) 100% redundancy:(5)
(b) single failure criteria.(5)
5.Quiz. Study Notes
With reference to an electro-hydraulic steering gear, explain EACH of the following:
(a) how steering may be maintained should the telemotor system fail;(5)
(b) how steering may be achieved should there be total failure of the hydraulic system.(5)
Question 5. Few mention procedures. Many continue to use the steering gear hydraulically using manual pump etc, even though the question says that there is complete hydraulic system failure.
6.Quiz. Study Notes
Describe, with the aid of a sketch, the operation of a Hydraulic Telemotor system.(10)
7.Quiz. Study Notes
(a) State the rudder movement required by SOLAS II-I, Reg 29.(5)
(b) Explain how it is ensured that the maximum movement stated in part (a) is not exceeded in an electro-hydraulic, ram type steering gear.(2)
(c) Explain how the steering gear system is protected from damage should the maximum movement be exceeded.(3)
8.Quiz. Study Notes
Sketch a valve operated, rotary vane steering gear, showing the hydraulic system from the directional valve to the rotary vane unit.
(10)
9.Quiz. Study Notes
Describe, with the aid of a block diagram, the operation of an automatic steering system, including auto-pilot and valve operated steering gear.
(10)
Question 5.
Very poor. Many do not understand the term ‘block diagram’, many simply sketch and describe a steering gear. Of those that try to describe the basics of control, they appear to believe that the rudder angle is fed back to the auto-pilot-i.e that the rudder has a set angle required to maintain the vessel on course rather than the rudder moving from centre to return the vessel to the set course. Rudder feedback is used to limit the rate of change of course but none mention this. Several make no attempt.
10.Quiz. Study Notes
List ALL the necessary checks of the steering gear before a vessel leaves port.(10)
Question 5. Candidates lose marks by not mentioning alarms, emergency power supply and not actually inspecting the gear.
11.Quiz. Study Notes
Using the Worksheet Q5, sketch the hydraulic system for the two ram steering gear shown. The system should be capable of ensuring that steerage may be maintained should hydraulic pipe failure occur at any point.(10)
12.Quiz. Study Notes