4-Ram Steering Gear System

The 4-ram steering gear system is a hydraulic steering mechanism used in large ships. It employs four hydraulic rams to control the rudder’s movement, providing redundancy and increased steering power.

Main Components

• Steering Wheel
• Telemotor Transmitter
• Telemotor Receiver
• Control Valve
• Four Hydraulic Rams
• Rudder Stock
• Rudder

How It Works

1. Steering Input: The helmsman turns the steering wheel on the bridge, initiating the steering command.
2. Signal Transmission: The steering wheel’s movement is converted into a signal by the telemotor transmitter and sent to the telemotor receiver.
3. Control Valve Activation: The telemotor receiver interprets the signal and activates the control valve to direct hydraulic fluid.
4. Hydraulic Ram Operation:
   • For a starboard turn: Rams 1 and 4 extend, while rams 2 and 3 retract.
   • For a port turn: Rams 2 and 3 extend, while rams 1 and 4 retract.
5. Rudder Movement: The coordinated action of the four rams rotates the rudder stock, moving the rudder to the desired angle.
6. Steering Effect: The rudder deflects water flow, causing the ship to turn in the intended direction.

Advantages of the 4-Ram System

• Redundancy: If one ram fails, the others can still operate the rudder.
• Increased Power: Multiple rams provide more force for steering large vessels.
• Precise Control: The system allows for fine adjustments in rudder position.
• Safety: The redundant design enhances reliability in critical steering situations.

This 4-ram steering gear system ensures reliable and powerful steering control for large ships, combining hydraulic power with redundancy for safe navigation.