Exam Question
With reference to rotary vane steering gears;
(a) Describe with the aid of a sketch, how such a unit incorporates an integrated rudder carrier (8)
(b) Explain how vertical rudder movement is accommodated. (8)
Class 4 (4th Engineer)
SC&S
📅 Oct 2022
Reference Answer
### (a) Description of Integrated Rudder Carrier
A rotary vane steering gear integrates the rudder carrier directly into its main housing, combining the functions of torque transmission and vertical load support into a single, compact unit. This design eliminates the need for a separate rudder carrier bearing mounted on a dedicated stool, saving space and simplifying installation on the steering flat.
**Construction and Integration:**
1. **Steering Gear Housing (Stator):** The fixed outer casing of the steering gear, known as the stator, is a robust cylindrical structure bolted directly to the ship's foundation or steering flat. The top cover or upper section of this stator is specially designed and machined to serve as the housing for the rudder carrier bearing.
A rotary vane steering gear integrates the rudder carrier directly into its main housing, combining the functions of torque transmission and vertical load support into a single, compact unit. This design eliminates the need for a separate rudder carrier bearing mounted on a dedicated stool, saving space and simplifying installation on the steering flat.
**Construction and Integration:**
1. **Steering Gear Housing (Stator):** The fixed outer casing of the steering gear, known as the stator, is a robust cylindrical structure bolted directly to the ship's foundation or steering flat. The top cover or upper section of this stator is specially designed and machined to serve as the housing for the rudder carrier bearing.
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