Gearboxes are a crucial part of any marine vehicle. It is essentially the equipment that is utilised for converting a boat engine’s output shaft revolutions to ones that are needed for rotating a boat’s propeller. In other words, gearboxes are used to transfer power from the boat’s drive shaft to the driven shaft specifically to reduce the vessel’s speed. There are two major types of marine gearboxes, namely mechanical and hydraulic marine gear box.
What is a Hydraulic Marine Gear Box?
A Hydraulic Marine Gear Box is the type of marine gearbox that makes the shift by using a hydraulic link from the boat’s hand lever. If you own a small boat, then you may utilize a direct-acting lever, similar to those used in a motor vehicle. However, using a hydraulic link is more effective in larger boats, for it allows the control lever to be properly fitted at more remote points. In these gearboxes, engine-lubricating oil supplied by the engine pump is often used as hydraulic fluid.
Where to Use Hydraulic Marine Gear Boxes?
Hydraulic Marine Gear Boxes are more frequently used in larger boats. You will find these in fishing boats, trawling boats, ferry boats, purse seining boats, RORO vessels, long lining/ hook lining boats, tugboats, and passenger boats.
What are the advantages of Hydraulic Marine Gear Boxes?
A hydraulic marine gear box comes with several useful features. For example:
• Equal power distribution in both ahead and astral direction
• Reliable and smooth control shifting with control lever
• Smooth actuation