Emergency Steering

Question 1

What type is onboard and how is it tested?

Answer 1

Jastram hydraulic two ram, dual rudder

It is tested by completing our pre departure checks and 3 monthly emergency steering

Question 2

How is it operated?

Answer 2

In normal operating conditions it is operated by the bridge or wing stations using the wheel, this sends an electrical signal to the steering gear controller which reads how far the rudder needs to move, this sends a signal to the solenoid to energise to solenoid with the correct port configuration. Hydraulic oil is now flowing to the ram to rotate the rudder. A feedback link then will send a signal to the steering gear controller to tell it where the rudder is, once at the desired position it will de-enegrise the solenoid until a new position or a new course has been commanded.

Question 3

Steering gear monthly checks?

Answer 3

Every month we check the whole system for any leaks. We also grease the cylinder rod bearings, mounting pad bearings, tie bar bearings and rudder stock bearings.

Check the oil levels on the HPU

Question 4

Steering gear checks underway?

Answer 4

• Visual inspection of pumps, pipes, fittings, mechanisms, levels
• Emergency steering every 3 months

Question 5

Frequency of testing?

Answer 5

3 months

Question 6

Explain the Emergency Steering Procedure?

Answer 6

• Alarm is raised, inform captain/ chief engineer
• Engineer inspects steering gear to see if it is an hydraulic issue or a power issue
• Establish communication with the bridge via the hardwire headset
• Engine takes local control after informing the bridge
• Confirm local control and carryout a small tests
• Engineer then follows rudder angle orders
• The relief takes over being the off watch helmsman.