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Becker Rotary Vane steering gear
The Becker Rotary Vane steering gear is a compact hydraulic steering gear developed for ships where high operational reliability, limited installation space, and large permissible rudder angles are key design requirements. Its space-saving design makes the system particularly suitable for confined steering gear compartments, while robust bearings, proprietary seals, and a closed hydraulic system contribute to a long service life and low maintenance requirements.
The steering gear is available in eight sizes with torque ranging from 160 to 500 kNm and is used, among other applications, on supply vessels, AHTS vessels, coastal vessels, RoRo and RoPax vessels, multipurpose vessels, fishing vessels, and yachts.
Models and Torque
|
Type |
Torque |
Rudder angle |
Actuator weight |
|
BMS 160-2 |
160 kNm |
2x65° |
2.2 t |
|
BMS 200-2 |
200 kNm |
2x65° |
2.5 t |
|
BMS 250-2 |
250 kNm |
2x65° |
3.9 t |
|
BMS 250-3 |
250 kNm |
2x45° |
2.2 t |
|
BMS 315-2 |
315 kNm |
2x65° |
4.3 t |
|
BMS 315-3 |
315 kNm |
2x45° |
2.5 t |
|
BMS 400-3 |
400 kN·m |
2x45° |
3.9 t |
|
BMS 500-3 |
500 kN·m |
2x45° |
4.3 t |
Two actuator models
The Rotary Vane series is available in two main versions. The -2 models are designed for rudder angles of up to ±65°, while the -3 models are optimized for rudder angles of up to ±45°. The difference stems from the actuator’s internal vane configuration, which allows each version to be adapted to different maneuvering requirements and installation conditions.
Both versions are based on the same proven design and are selected based on the vessel’s rudder arrangement, desired rudder travel, and the maneuvering characteristics required.
Hydraulic System and Control
The Rotary Vane steering machine is driven by a closed hydraulic system with a variable-displacement pump. Each hydraulic power unit (HPU) consists of an oil tank, an electric motor, and a hydraulic pump. Depending on the installation configuration, up to two hydraulic power units can be mounted on a common frame. Safety valves protect the actuator against overpressure, while temperature sensors and level switches monitor the hydraulic system and send alarms to Becker’s steering and monitoring system. In standby mode, energy consumption can be reduced to 5–15% of normal operation. The system can be controlled via FFU, NFU, or autopilot and also offers the option of local emergency control directly at the actuator.
When is the Becker Rotary Vane steering gear suitable?
The Becker Rotary Vane steering gear is particularly well-suited for vessels where compact installation, large rudder angles, and high steering precision are priorities. The ability to achieve rudder angles of up to ±65°, combined with consistent torque across the entire operating range, makes the steering gear well-suited for vessels with high maneuverability requirements. The system is often used in conjunction with Becker Schilling rudders on vessels that need to perform crab steering or maintain position during dynamic positioning (DP).
Advantages of the Becker Rotary Vane steering gear
- Compact and space-saving design.
- Eight sizes with torque ranging from 160 to 500 kNm.
- Rudder angles up to ±65°, depending on the model.
- Consistent torque across the entire rudder angle range.
- Closed hydraulic system with low energy consumption.
- Self-lubricating bearings with high wear resistance.
- Proprietary seals that minimize the risk of internal and external oil leaks.
- Low maintenance requirements and long service life.
- Integrated local emergency control.