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Competence 1: Plan and conduct a passage

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Competence 1: Plan and conduct a passage KUP 8: Have knowledge of steering control systems, operational procedures and change-over from manual to automatic control and vice versa. Adjustment of controls for optimum performance

KUP 8: Have knowledge of steering control systems, operational procedures and change-over from manual to automatic control and vice versa. Adjustment of controls for optimum performance

sheng 2 Courses

Learning objective:

A system used for of steering the ship. It is in constant use when the ship is underway, and any failure or malfunction may result in disaster. The steering system usually consists of: a steering gear, a control equipment, a rudder carrier, a rudder and a rudder horn. The steering gear provides a movement of the rudder in response to a signal from the bridge. The control equipment conveys a signal of ordered rudder angle from the bridge and activates the steering gear to move the rudder to the desired angle. The learning objective is to know the operational procedures of steering control system of the ship.

Learning content:

1. Operational procedures for the steering control system

Operational procedures for the steering control system are critical to ensure the safe and efficient maneuvering of vessels. Here is an outline of the typical procedures1:

  1. Pre-Operation Checks:
    • Verify the operational status of the steering gear and control systems.
    • Check hydraulic oil levels and inspect for any leaks.
    • Ensure power supply and backup systems are functioning.
  2. Manual to Automatic Control:
    • To switch from manual to automatic control, set the steering mode selector switch to “Automatic.”
    • Confirm the autopilot system is engaged and receiving correct input data (e.g., course, heading).
    • Monitor the rudder’s response to autopilot commands to ensure proper operation.
  3. Automatic to Manual Control:
    • To switch from automatic to manual control, set the steering mode selector switch to “Manual.”
    • Take control using the manual steering wheel or joystick.
    • Verify the rudder angle indicator matches the manual input.
  4. Emergency Procedures:
    • In case of steering failure, engage the emergency steering system located in the steering gear compartment.
    • Follow the established emergency steering protocols, such as using local hydraulic pumps or manual override mechanisms.
  5. Routine Testing:
    • Conduct regular drills to practice switching between control modes.
    • Test the emergency steering system periodically to ensure readiness.

Recommendation:

1. Steering control system of the vessel

Reference:

1. Navigation. Ding Yong. Publisher: People’s Communications Press.

2. Steering control system of the vessel. https://youtu.be/LixXkIda8lE

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