Exam Question
State some built in measures by which the steering gear mechanism can be kept operational, in the event of breakages, pipe failures, motor burn out etc. (16)
Class 4 (4th Engineer)
MEP
📅 Aug 2025
Reference Answer
As per SOLAS regulations, the continuity of steering is paramount for the safety of life at sea. Numerous built-in measures are mandated to ensure the steering gear mechanism remains operational, even in the event of failures such as component breakages, hydraulic pipe ruptures, or motor burnouts. These measures are based on the principles of redundancy, isolation, and failsafe design.
### 1. Redundancy in Power Actuating Systems (Against Motor/Pump Failure)
This is the primary defense against the failure of a prime mover, such as a motor burnout or pump seizure.
* **Main and Auxiliary Gear:** The fundamental requirement under SOLAS is for a ship to be fitted with both a main and an auxiliary steering gear, where the failure of one does not render the other inoperative.
### 1. Redundancy in Power Actuating Systems (Against Motor/Pump Failure)
This is the primary defense against the failure of a prime mover, such as a motor burnout or pump seizure.
* **Main and Auxiliary Gear:** The fundamental requirement under SOLAS is for a ship to be fitted with both a main and an auxiliary steering gear, where the failure of one does not render the other inoperative.
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