Port Moody, BC, Canada: The first generation of the Autonav® Rotary Vane steering systems were put into service over 36 years ago in the RCN Halifax Class Frigates and since then have undergone over 100,000 hours of service with minimal maintenance. On recently inspecting one of these early systems, the seals and bearings were confirmed to have zero measurable wear due to the unique bearing and seal design. While rotary vane steering actuators are much more compact and lower weight than...

Please see attached article by authors Paul Wagner and Jeannine A. Vail as published in the Naval Engineers journal. CLICK HERE ABSTRACT...

After 30-50 years of service, even well-built steering systems usually require refit or upgrade. This is particularly true of control...