Steering Systems

Marine steering systems are essential for controlling a vessel’s direction and typically include hydraulic, electric, or electro-hydraulic mechanisms that adjust the rudder angle. A key component of these systems is the Rudder Angle Indicator (RAI), which displays the exact position of the rudder in degrees relative to the ship’s centerline, ensuring the helmsman and officers can verify steering commands and maintain safe maneuvering. Complementing this, bearing repeaters provide accurate heading information from the ship’s gyrocompass at multiple locations, such as bridge wings or steering stations, allowing navigators to take bearings and align the vessel’s course precisely. Together, these instruments work with the steering gear to provide real-time feedback and situational awareness, which is critical for navigation, docking, and overall vessel control.