The Technology Behind the Helm: Hydraulic Steering Systems & BCS Marine
How proper system selection and advanced hydraulic steering technology deliver precision, safety and reliable handling across all vessel types.
Steering systems, immediately after propulsion and in direct interaction with it, represent the functional core of any vessel. Accurate course transmission combined with long-term reliability, even under demanding operating conditions, is essential for both motorboats and sailing yachts.
For this reason, hydraulic steering systems have become the industry standard, offering dependable performance across a wide range of vessel types and sizes.
How a hydraulic steering system works
In its simplest configuration, a hydraulic steering system consists of a helm pump (or two in the case of dual steering stations) and a hydraulic steering cylinder.
The helm pump converts the rotational movement of the wheel into controlled hydraulic oil flow, which drives the piston of the cylinder. The cylinder, mechanically connected to the rudder arm, ensures smooth and precise steering response.
This simple yet robust design is the key reason behind the widespread adoption of hydraulic steering systems.
Proper selection and installation
The correct selection of the helm pump and cylinder, combined with proper installation practices, is crucial for system performance and durability.
Calculations are based on the most demanding operating condition: maximum rudder angle (typically 35°) at the vessel’s top speed. Although rare, this scenario ensures an adequate safety margin. Equally important are the correct hose selection and suitable hydraulic oil, always in accordance with manufacturer recommendations.
Additional components and advanced solutions
Check valves play a vital role in maintaining steering commands by preventing reverse pressure from the rudder back to the helm pump.
Electro-hydraulic pumps further enhance system functionality, allowing integration with autopilot systems or joystick control. They provide greater precision, improved comfort during long passages and enhanced maneuverability. They also facilitate the installation of multiple steering stations, including wireless solutions.
The most advanced configuration is electro-hydraulic power-assisted steering, suitable for vessels up to 40 meters. These systems combine manual steering with automatic power assistance and feature emergency disengagement, ensuring fail-safe manual operation in the event of power loss.
Maintenance and service life
Maintenance of a hydraulic steering system is straightforward when performed by qualified service personnel and includes system flushing, oil replacement and seal renewal.
Indicative service intervals are:
- every 5 years for commercial vessels
- every 7 years for private vessels
BCS Marine – Technology and reliability
The Italian manufacturer BCS Marine is a benchmark in hydraulic steering systems, supplying some of the world’s leading shipyards. With the widest product range, custom-built solutions and certifications from major classification societies, BCS Marine meets the demands of even the most complex applications.
Through its exclusive partnership with BCS Marine, Alex Marine delivers reliable, advanced and tailor-made steering solutions to the Greek market.
View more here.