The complete marine rudder system consists of the following parts, as shown in Figure 2-2, which is the layout diagram of its equipment.

The remote control system consists of a signal transmitter located in the cockpit (usually at the highest point of the ship) and a signal actuator located in the rudder compartment. It is the command system for steering. Drivers can operate the steering wheel according to the specified heading and reach the cockpit through signal transmission or transmission mechanisms in the system. Previously, there were mechanical, hydraulic, and electric transmission mechanisms. In addition, there is an automatic steering device that can connect the control system with the compass. A gyrocompass is an electrical instrument that indicates the navigation of a ship and measures the direction of a target. This device can automatically correct the heading deviation that occurs during ship navigation, allowing the ship to navigate according to the predetermined heading. Automatic control device is a relatively advanced device that is widely used on ocean going passenger and cargo ships.

The rudder is a power machinery for turning the rudder, which is an important mechanical equipment used to control the deflection of the rudder blades. The engine is usually located in the rudder compartment at the rear of the ship. There are many types of servos, and the previous ones used were manual Xiongqi and electric motor. Manpower is only used on small islands, and some ships use it as backup equipment.

The steering mechanism is located between the servo and the rudder blade. It is a device that converts the power generated by the servo into torque and transmits it to the rudder to rotate. The types of steering mechanisms used to mainly include hinge type, gear type, and screw type mechanical types, but currently hydraulic cylinder type is more common.

The rudder is mainly composed of a rudder stock and rudder blades. According to different types of rudder, it is also composed of components such as rudder plates, rudder pillars, rudder bearings (divided into upper, middle, and lower rudder bearings), and rudder pins. The rudder blade is located in the water behind the propeller at the stern of the ship, and it deflects left and right through the drive of the rudder, generating a turning moment.

In addition, a rudder angle indicator is also installed in the rudder system to display feedback on the rudder rotation angle, allowing the driver to grasp the actual position of the ship, as well as the maximum rudder angle limit device and emergency steering mechanism.

(For more information, please contact us.)

For more marine rudder system information, kindly please click here.