Class 4 (4th Engineer) SC&S 📅 Mar 2025

Exam Question

(a) Sketch a semi balanced rudder of your choice showing: (10)

(i) A detail of the hinges or pintels about which rudder turns.

(ii) Details of the rudder carrier bearing which supports the weight of the rudderstock and rudder.

(b) State the advantages of semi balanced rudder over an unbalanced rudder (6)

Reference Answer

### (a) Description for Sketch of a Semi-Balanced Rudder
A semi-balanced rudder has a portion of its blade area (typically 20-25%) positioned forward of the turning axis (centerline of the rudder stock). This design utilizes the hydrodynamic pressure on the forward section to counteract the pressure on the aft section, thereby reducing the torque required to turn the rudder.
#### (i) Details of Hinges (Pintles and Gudgeons)
The rudder is hinged to the stern frame, allowing it to pivot. This is achieved through a pintle and gudgeon arrangement.

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