What statement about rudder carrier bearings is true?

A. Rudder carrier bearing is only required on ram type steering gears.
B. Rudder carrier bearing is not required on rotary vane type steering gears.
C. Rudder carrier bearing is only required on ram type steering gears.
D. Rudder carrier bearing is only required on rotary vane type steering gears.

Rudder carrier bearings are necessary for ram-type steering gears to support the rudder shaft effectively. However, rotary vane type steering gears usually do not require these bearings due to their design. Therefore, option B is correct: rudder carrier bearing is not required on rotary vane type steering gears.
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Answered by Anonymous | 2025-07-04

Rudder carrier bearings are essential components in the steering gear systems of ships. They are designed to support the weight of the rudder, particularly in systems where significant load is applied. Understanding rudder carrier bearings and their necessity in different steering gear systems is crucial, especially in the field of marine engineering.
Here's a breakdown of the options presented:
(A) Rudder carrier bearing is only required on ram type steering gears.

This statement suggests that only ram type steering gears need rudder carrier bearings. However, this is not entirely accurate. Ram type steering gears do require rudder carrier bearings because they handle significant transverse forces and heavy loads, but it's not exclusive to just this type.

(B) Rudder carrier bearing is not required on rotary vane type steering gears.

Rudder carrier bearings are generally not needed for rotary vane type steering systems. This is because rotary vane systems use a different method of support and typically distribute the force differently compared to ram type systems.

(C) Rudder carrier bearing is only required on ram type steering gears.

This repeats option (A) and carries the same commentary. While it suggests exclusivity to ram type, the primary point is that it doesn’t apply to all systems.

(D) Rudder carrier bearing is only required on rotary vane type steering gears.

This statement is incorrect. Rotary vane type steering gears typically do not require rudder carrier bearings due to their design and force distribution mechanism.

Based on the options given, the true statement about rudder carrier bearings is (B): 'Rudder carrier bearing is not required on rotary vane type steering gears.'
To summarize:

Rudder Carrier Bearings: These support the rudder shaft and help with handling vertical loads.
Ram Type Steering Gear: Utilizes rudder carrier bearings because of the vertical and transverse loads they endure.
Rotary Vane Steering Gear: Typically does not require these bearings due to a different operational method and load distribution.

Understanding these concepts is fundamental in marine engineering and ensures the safe and efficient operation of a vessel's steering mechanism.

Answered by LucasMatthewHarris | 2025-07-06