SEANAV MARINE emphasizes the significance of magnetic compasses in ensuring the safety of navigation. It is the responsibility of vessel owners and masters to maintain and regularly check their magnetic compasses to guarantee their proper function. In addition, a table or curve of residual deviation must be kept on board for reference.
When observations show that the magnetic compass deviation exceeds 5 degrees on any heading, a qualified compass adjuster must make the necessary adjustments. This is crucial to ensure accurate navigation and prevent potential hazards.
To support vessel owners and masters in complying with these regulations, SEANAV MARINE has a team of trained engineers who can perform annual magnetic compass calibration and issue deviation cards during sea trials. Clients can rely on our experience and expertise in this field for the proper maintenance of their magnetic compass calibration and deviation card. Don’t hesitate to contact us for any magnetic compass calibration needs.
MAGNETIC COMPASS ADJUSTMENT
Compass adjustment refers to the process of analyzing and correcting for external forces that cause deviation in the readings of a vessel’s magnetic compass from true magnetic north.
This deviation is caused by factors such as the presence of steel, electronic equipment, cargo, and other magnetic materials on the vessel. The adjustment process involves identifying the deviations on the cardinal and intercardinal headings and applying correctors to either eliminate or reduce the deviation.
The goal of compass adjustment is to ensure that the compass aligns accurately with the earth’s magnetic field, allowing for reliable navigation.
HOW MAGNETIC COMPASS CAN BE CALIBRATED?
Marine magnetic compasses can be calibrated using a process known as compass compensation or compass swinging. The process involves rotating the vessel to a series of predetermined headings and recording the readings of the magnetic compass at each heading. The recorded readings are then compared to the corresponding true magnetic headings to identify any deviations.
Once the deviations have been identified, they can be corrected using adjustable compensating magnets or soft iron correctors. The compensating magnets or correctors are strategically placed around the compass binnacle to counteract the magnetic field distortions caused by the vessel’s metal components.
After the compensators have been installed, the compass is swung again to verify that the deviations have been adequately corrected. This process is repeated until the compass readings are aligned accurately with the corresponding true magnetic headings.
Compass calibration is an essential process that ensures the accuracy of a vessel’s navigation system and helps prevent navigational errors that could result in accidents or collisions.
