Marine Magnetic Compass

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Marine Magnetic Compass

Description：

Marine magnetic compass is a navigational instrument used to determine a vessel's direction relative to magnetic north. It works by utilizing the Earth's magnetic field to align itself with magnetic north. The marine magnetic compass consists of a compass card, which is mounted on a pivot and is free to rotate. The compass card is marked with the cardinal points, and there is a lubber line, which is used as a reference for reading the compass. The compass card is magnetized and aligned with the Earth's magnetic field. This allows the card to rotate freely, aligning itself with magnetic north. A compass housing surrounds the compass card, and it is filled with a liquid (typically oil) to reduce friction and stabilize the card's movement. The compass housing is mounted on gimbals to keep the compass card horizontal and level as the vessel pitches and rolls. The gimbals allow the compass housing to remain stable even as the vessel moves, ensuring that the compass remains accurate. The marine magnetic compass works on the principle that a magnet will align itself with the Earth's magnetic field, and the compass card is magnetized so that it aligns itself with the Earth's magnetic field. When the vessel changes direction, the compass card remains aligned with magnetic north, indicating the new heading of the vessel.

Application scope:

Primary navigation tool: The marine magnetic compass is an essential tool for determining the direction of a vessel relative to magnetic north. It provides a reliable, real-time indication of the vessel's heading and is often used as the primary navigation tool, particularly when other navigation systems are unavailable or unreliable.

Backup navigation tool: Even with modern navigation systems such as GPS, a marine magnetic compass is an important backup tool in case of a system failure. It is a reliable and simple tool that can provide accurate navigation information, even in adverse weather conditions or in areas where GPS signals may be weak or disrupted.

Navigation training: The marine magnetic compass is often used in navigation training courses to teach students how to use and navigate using a compass. Learning to use a compass is an important skill for any sailor or mariner and is often required for certification in various marine professions.

Scientific research: Magnetic compasses are used in scientific research to measure the Earth's magnetic field and to study the behavior of magnetic materials. In marine research, compasses may be used to study ocean currents, tides, and other oceanographic phenomena.

Military applications: Magnetic compasses have long been used by military organizations for navigation and orientation purposes. Military-grade compasses are designed to be rugged, reliable, and accurate, and are often used in field operations and training exercises.

Mantaince:

Regular cleaning: The compass bowl, housing, and glass should be cleaned regularly with a soft cloth and mild soap and water. Avoid using harsh chemicals or abrasive materials that could scratch the surface of the compass.

Lubrication: The compass pivot and damping oil should be checked and topped up regularly, following the manufacturer's recommendations. The pivot should be kept clean and free of debris that could interfere with its movement.

Calibration: The compass should be calibrated regularly, using a land-based reference point or a professional compass adjuster. Calibration should be done at least once a year, or more often if the vessel has been subjected to significant changes in magnetic or electrical fields.

Protection from damage: The compass should be protected from damage due to impacts, vibration, or extreme temperatures. The compass should be installed in a secure location and protected by a binnacle or other housing that shields it from the elements.

Electrical interference: The compass should be protected from electrical interference from nearby equipment, including radios, radar, and other electronics. Electrical interference can cause errors in compass readings, so it is important to keep electrical equipment properly grounded and shielded.

Categories:

Marine reflector magnetic compass, Marine projection magnetic compass, Marine Vertical Magnetic Compass, Marine Table Model Magnetic Compass

Magnetic compass VS Electric gyrocompass:

Item	Principle	Advantage	Disadvantage
Magnetic compass	Magnetic compass is made by using the magnetic needle to stabilize the north of the finger by geomagnetic action.	It can be used in any situation. It's an autonomous system with little dependence on the outside world. Right.	The ship made of iron and steel material will make the magnetic compass produce error. Under the double influence of magnetic difference and error, the magnetic compass will produce a certain error. Its pointing accuracy is not as high as the compass, subject to magnetic interference.
Electric gyrocompass	The gyrocompass uses the two basic characteristics of gyroscope, namely fixed axis and precession, combined with the earth rotation vector and gravity vector, with the help of control equipment and damping equipment to complete the pointing work.	It points more accurately than the magnetic compass. It is free from magnetic interference, and the pointing error is small. It has multiple repeater, unlimited installation position. It is conducive to the automation of ships.	Poor reliability. Because the premise of the compass work is that there must be electricity, and the internal control system is very complex, once the power failure or control system problems, the compass can be used.

Photo of marine magnetic compass: