Topic.

8
SEAM 1 MT112(CATCH UP)
Steering
(LEC) CO2: Discuss how to steer the ship and comply with helm orders and with respect
to correct procedures.

LO2.1: Explain how steer the ship and maintain in its intended courses with external factors such as wind
and current

LO2.2: Describe how to comply with helm orders and respond to commands as per standard marine
communication phrases

Topic 8: Steering

Topic Objectives: Explain how to perform automatic steering and how to change over from
manual and vice versa Discuss the difference in steering by day, by night, in the open sea,
coastal waters, approaching berth and confined waters. Explain how to execute manual
steering given different sea and weather conditions.
(LAB) CO2: Steer the ship and comply with helm orders and with respect to correct
procedures.

LO2.1: Steer the ship and maintain in its intended courses with external factors such as wind and current

LO2.2: Comply with helm orders and respond to commands as per standard marine communication phrases

Topic 8: Steering
Topic Objectives: Perform automatic steering and how to change over from manual and vice
versa Demonstrate steering by day, by night, in the open sea, coastal waters, approaching
berth and confined waters.
Execute manual steering given different sea and weather conditions
 What is Steering?
> Steering of a ship refers to the process of controlling the
direction of movement or course of a vessel in water.

>The primary purpose of steering is to maintain the ship's stability, keep it

on course, and enable safe navigation. The steering system allows the ship's
operator, typically known as the helmsman or steersman, to maneuver the
vessel in response to external factors such as wind, currents, tides, and navigational
requirements.
> Traditionally, ships were steered using mechanical
systems, often known as helm or wheel systems.

> In modern ships, steering mechanisms have become more

advanced and automated. Instead of manual control, ships
often use hydraulic, electric, or electro-hydraulic systems
for steering. These systems are operated through control
panels or consoles, allowing the helmsman to manipulate
the ship's course using electronic controls.
> while the steering system controls the ship's direction,
the propulsion system, such as engines or sails, provides the
power to move the vessel forward. The combined operation
of steering and propulsion systems allows for effective
maneuvering and navigation of the ship.
Standard Helms Order
❑ Steering a ship and complying with helm orders while adhering to correct procedures are crucial
for the safe and efficient navigation of a vessel. Here are some key considerations and steps to follow in
order to steer a ship and comply with helm orders correctly:

>Understand Helm Orders: Familiarize yourself with the various helm orders and their meanings.
These orders may vary depending on the ship's type, size, and propulsion system. Common helm orders include
"hard-a-starboard" (turn the ship sharply to the right), "hard-a-port" (turn the ship sharply to the left), "steady on course"
(maintain the current heading), and "meet her" or "come right/left rudder" (make a gradual turn to the right or left).

>Communication: Effective communication between the helmsman and the officer of the watch (OOW) is
crucial. The OOW is responsible for providing helm orders and should communicate clearly and concisely. Repeat the
order back to the OOW to ensure mutual understanding.

>Helm Equipment: Familiarize yourself with the ship's helm equipment, such as the helm wheel, tiller, or
joystick, depending on the vessel's configuration. Understand how the equipment functions and responds to your
commands.
>Maintain Situational Awareness: Continuously monitor the ship's position, speed, and
heading by referring to the ship's navigation instruments, including the magnetic compass, gyrocompass, and
electronic displays. Be aware of any navigational hazards, traffic, and environmental conditions that may affect the
ship's maneuverability.

>Steer Smoothly: When executing helm orders, avoid sudden or jerky movements. Make smooth and
controlled adjustments to the ship's course, taking into account its size and maneuverability characteristics. This helps
to maintain stability and reduce the risk of accidents or damage.

>Follow Standard Procedures: Adhere to established standard procedures for steering the ship.
These procedures may include specific methods for executing turns, altering the ship's speed, and responding to
emergency situations. Familiarize yourself with these procedures and follow them diligently.
> Training and Competence: Ensure that you have received proper training and have the necessary
competence to steer the ship. Familiarize yourself with the ship's maneuvering characteristics and limitations. Regularly
participate in refresher courses and drills to enhance your skills and maintain proficiency.

> Bridge Resource Management (BRM): Bridge Resource Management involves effective
teamwork and coordination among all bridge personnel. Work closely with the OOW, lookout, and other crew members to
ensure a smooth and safe operation of the vessel. Communicate any concerns or observations promptly to the OOW.

> Continuous Learning: Stay updated with the latest industry best practices, regulations, and
technological advancements related to ship steering and helm operations. Attend relevant training programs and seek
opportunities for professional development to enhance your knowledge and skills.
❑ Steering a ship and maintaining its intended course in the presence of
external factors like wind and current involves a combination of navigational
techniques and the use of various ship control systems. Here's a general explanation of
how it is done:

> Helm Control: Ships are equipped with a helm or steering mechanism that allows the crew to control the
direction of the vessel. Traditionally, this involves using a steering wheel or tiller, but modern ships may use electronic or
hydraulic systems. The helm control adjusts the rudder, which is a movable surface at the ship's stern, to change the
direction of the ship.

> Gyrocompass and Magnetic Compass: Ships use compasses to determine their
heading. A gyrocompass provides the most accurate heading reference by utilizing the Earth's rotation, while a
magnetic compass relies on the Earth's magnetic field. The gyrocompass is not affected by external magnetic influences,
making it more reliable in determining the ship's true heading.
> Course Planning and Navigation: Before setting sail, a course plan is developed,
considering factors such as intended destination, prevailing winds, and currents. Nautical charts and navigational aids
help sailors plot the desired route and identify potential hazards. Skilled navigators continually monitor the ship's
position using various techniques like dead reckoning, celestial navigation, and modern satellite-based systems like
GPS.

> Wind and Current Effects: External factors like wind and current can exert forces on a ship and
cause it to deviate from its intended course. Wind can push the ship off course, creating a sideways force known as
"leeway." Currents, which are the movements of water, can also influence the ship's heading. Sailors must consider
these factors when steering the ship.

> Adjusting Course: To counteract the effects of wind and current, sailors may need to make course
adjustments. They can do this by altering the ship's heading slightly in the opposite direction to compensate for the
external forces. By observing the ship's response to these adjustments and monitoring the compass, sailors can fine-tune
the course to maintain the intended heading.
> Rudder and Engine Control: The ship's rudder plays a crucial role in controlling its direction.
Sailors use the helm control system to move the rudder, adjusting its angle as needed. By positioning the rudder
appropriately, the ship's resistance to wind and current can be optimized, allowing it to maintain the desired course.
Additionally, engine control systems provide propulsion, allowing the ship to counteract external forces and maintain
speed.

> Continuous Monitoring: The crew continuously monitors the ship's heading, position, and
external factors that could affect its course. They may use various instruments like gyrocompasses, magnetic
compasses, GPS, and radar systems to gather information about the ship's orientation and the surrounding
environment. Regular checks and adjustments help ensure the ship stays on track.
❑ Switching from Manual to Automatic Steering and Vice Versa:
1. Manual Steering: In manual steering mode, the helmsman controls the ship's rudder manually. The automatic
steering system is disengaged, and the ship's heading is adjusted by physically operating the ship's steering
mechanisms.

2. Changing to Automatic Steering: To switch from manual to automatic steering, the helmsman activates the
automatic steering system. This can usually be done through a control panel or by pressing a designated button. Once
activated, the automatic steering system takes over the control of the ship's rudder, following the desired course set
by the control algorithms.

3. Changing to Manual Steering: When transitioning from automatic to manual steering, the helmsman disengages the
automatic steering system. This is typically done by deactivating the system through the control panel or pressing a
designated button. Once disengaged, the helmsman can resume manual control by operating the ship's steering
mechanisms.

It's important to note that the specific procedures and mechanisms may vary depending on the ship's make, model,
and the type of automatic steering system installed. It is crucial for ship operators to be familiar with the ship's manual
and guidelines provided by the manufacturer to ensure safe and proper operation.