what’s name of a boat steering wheel

You want to know what’s name of a boat steering wheel? It is normally called ‘Helm’.The steering wheel system is very important for controlling the boat, and there are multiple things to learn about it. It is an interesting point that many sailor might be curious about. We will answer all your questions in this article. Additionally, we will discuss some key knowledge and information.

What’s Name of Boat Steering Wheel?

Normally, the steering wheel on boat or ship is called the‘helm’.

Why？ The possible reasons as below:

• “Helm” is easier to say than “steering wheel.”
• Requesting or commanding someone to take control of the ship is equivalent to an order to take control of the helm.
• Operating the steering wheel of a boat or ship also entails the use of other navigational mechanisms such as the toggle, tiller, and console, which are all part of the helm.
• Using “helm” instead of “steering wheel” has been practiced for several decades and there is no important reason to do away with it.

The helm is also referring to the area of the boat or ship from where the ship is controlled. Not only the wheel, other important parts are also located at the helm, including tools for navigation and communication. Due to the size of ships, however, the helm is usually located in a much bigger area dedicated for controlling the entire vessel, the bridge.

The Proper Name for a Boat or Ship Steering Wheel System

The proper name for a boat or ship steering wheel is most commonly either a “ship’s wheel” or a “boat’s wheel.” Depending on the type of system of steering of the boat or ship, however, you may encounter any of the following technical terms that are identical or similar in function or purpose to a boat or ship steering wheel:

• Mechanical steering system
• Rotary steering system
• Rack and pinion steering
• Hydraulic steering system
• Electronic -mechanical steering system
• Electronic-hydraulic drive system
• Rudder
• Tiller
• Lever System
• Helm Station
• Console

What is the Steering Wheel on Different Types of Vessels Called?

Fortunately for beginners and experienced boaters, there is no hard rule for differentiating steering wheels across different types of boats, ships, or vessels. The most dominant term used in modern days is still “helm” to avoid confusion.

However, if you plan on joining a boat or ship crew as a sailor, first mate, cook, engineer, or any other position, then it would be best to orient yourself with how the crew normally identifies common boat areas, roles, and operations for the sake of safety, proper communication, and efficiency.

For Old Ship, How Does A Steering Wheel Work?

In conventional boats, the steering wheel is connected to a spindle via the axle. The spindle that goes through a drum, also called a barrel, is connected to a tiller or steering chain that connects to the sheaves present on either side of the vessel wheel.

These tiller chain ultimately connects to a pair of pulleys and finally meet at the tiller connecting to the rudder. Now, the connected wheels moving in unison will result in the tiller angled in either direction.

For Modern Ships, How Does A Steering Wheel Work?

In contrast, modern-day steering wheels do not feature wood spokes, and they use modern steering gear systems for the purpose. They use either fully hydraulic type, electro-hydraulic type, or fully electric type of gear systems these days.

Nevertheless, the basic mechanism of steering wheel operation still remains the same. In general, once the steering operations are performed, the steering gear system which is responsible for turning the rudder by transmitting the torsional force generated by the system to the rudder stock.

Hydraulic pumps create hydraulic pressure via mechanical or mostly electrical means. This hydraulic pressure created attributes to the motions in steering gear that triggers the movements in the rudder. Hydraulic pumps can either be Radial piston type or Axial piston type.

The electrically driven unit necessary to coordinate in between the hydraulic pressure created by the pumps and the mechanical force required for the rotary movements in the rudder is called actuators.

For Old Ship, How Does A Steering Wheel Work?

In conventional boats, the steering wheel is connected to a spindle via the axle. The spindle that goes through a drum, also called a barrel, is connected to a tiller or steering chain that connects to the sheaves present on either side of the vessel wheel.

These tiller chain ultimately connects to a pair of pulleys and finally meet at the tiller connecting to the rudder. Now, the connected wheels moving in unison will result in the tiller angled in either direction.

Conclusion

What do you call a boat steering system? Normally,the steering wheel on the ship is called a helm and the one steering it is the helmsman. And how it works? After reading this article, you now have a better understanding.