STEERING CONTROL SYSTEM REQUIRED ON VESSELS – WHAT YOU NEED TO KNOW
Properly functioning steering control systems are essential for vessel maneuverability and safety. Whether you’re managing a large commercial ship or a smaller vessel, a reliable steering control system ensures compliance with IMO and SOLAS regulations while safeguarding lives and cargo at sea. At SEANAV, we specialize in the supply, installation, and maintenance of marine steering control systems tailored to vessel specifications.
Understanding the required components and compliance standards of a steering control system helps in ensuring operational efficiency, minimizing downtime, and maintaining the safety of your crew and cargo. This guide covers the basics of what’s required in modern steering systems and how SEANAV ensures your vessel meets all technical and regulatory standards.
Key Components of a Vessel Steering Control System
- Helm Unit: The manual input device from where the rudder is controlled
- Hydraulic Power Unit (HPU): Provides the force to move the rudder
- Rudder Actuator: Converts hydraulic pressure into mechanical movement
- Feedback Sensor: Monitors rudder position and relays it to the helm
- Control Panels: Located on the bridge, ECR, and in the emergency steering room
Why Is a Steering Control System Required?
Regulations such as those from the International Maritime Organization (IMO) and SOLAS Chapter V require every seagoing vessel to have a reliable primary and secondary (emergency) steering system. This is to prevent loss of maneuverability, especially in congested or hazardous waters.
11 Frequently Asked Questions (FAQs)
- What is a steering control system?
It’s the system that allows navigational control of a ship’s direction via the rudder. - Is it required by law?
Yes. SOLAS and IMO regulations mandate steering systems on seagoing vessels. - What are the components of the system?
Helm, HPU, actuators, control panels, and feedback mechanisms. - What happens if the system fails?
Vessels may lose navigational control. Emergency steering systems must be available as backup. - Does SEANAV install steering systems?
Yes. We supply, install, and calibrate full steering control systems globally. - How often should the system be tested?
At least every voyage, and during scheduled maintenance intervals. - What standards should it meet?
IMO, SOLAS, and class-specific regulations like ABS, DNV, or BV. - Is training required for operation?
Yes. Crew must understand normal and emergency operations as per the ship’s safety management system (SMS). - Can SEANAV service older systems?
Yes. We refurbish and maintain both modern and legacy steering systems. - Is the emergency steering room mandatory?
Yes. Most SOLAS vessels are required to have a designated emergency steering room with manual override. - What brands does SEANAV support?
We work with all major OEMs including Kobelt, Rolls-Royce, Tokyo Keiki, and Sperry Marine.
SEANAV – Your Partner in Steering Control Systems
SEANAV provides turnkey solutions for the installation, testing, and certification of steering control systems. From full new-build installations to retrofits and emergency repairs, we help you stay compliant and safe at sea. Contact us today to schedule a system health check or consultation.
