Marine hydraulics are used for the dispersal and obtainment of power through a constant drive and speed, i.e. electric motor. Variable speed drives in and out of motors and power for devices is provided from oil pressure. Hydraulic power is meant for the use of remotely controlling valves and deck machinery. This is the beauty of marine hydraulics engineering.

Marine Hydraulic Systems

The hydraulic circuit is made up of marine hydraulic steering fluid contained in a reservoir tank, a pump to push the marine hydraulic fluid in and out of the marine hydraulic steering system and a motor or cylinder actuator to convert the energy of moving liquid. Some systems also require valves to control the flow and pressure.

Hydraulic Fluid

Water has been used mainly as the original marine hydraulic fluid, and it is still sometimes used for heavy operations. Water’s disadvantage, however, is that it causes rusting and corrosion, and has a limited temperature range.

Oils, enhanced with additives, compromise of oxidation stability, rust prevention, film strength, foam resistance, and anti-wear characteristics make sure the fluids withstand higher temperatures of operation and modern system pressures. Rotating marine hydraulic pumps and motor systems demand marine hydraulic steering oils.

Marine hydraulic propulsion

Marine propulsion is the mechanism or system used to generate thrust to move a ship or vessel across the water using marine hydraulic propulsion systems which use a phenomenon known as hydraulic marine propulsion drive.

Marine hydraulic services and solutions

Marine hydraulic services include onboard maintenance and repairs to a high standard that will provide years of ongoing system reliability, whereas marine hydraulic solutions include replacing marine hydraulic parts with more efficient working ones.

Advantages and Disadvantages of Hydraulic Systems

Advantages

• It is a convenient method for transferring power over comparatively larger distances, and total control of the operations is obtained.
• Comprehensive variable speed of rotary and linear motion, with seamless taking up of the load. Power is continuously being transmitted through speed changes.
• Torques or high static forces is achieved and maintained.
• Reliability and safety are made sure of in harsh environmental conditions.

Disadvantages

• Serious accidents can take place due to high pressure in some hydraulic systems.
• If there is a leak in the hydraulic system, it can lead to an explosion or significant fires in different parts of the ship. People’s lives and priced goods are put at high risk.