General information for the choice hydraulic steering system

Description
All parts of hydraulic steering Ultraflex systems are specially designed and manufactured for marine use. The materials are designed for this use and guarantee a long and safe operation under these conditions.
General information about the Ultraflex steering systems
How does a hydraulic steering system work?
By turning the steering wheel hydraulic oil is pumped from the control unit (essentially a hydraulic pump) by the hydraulic tubes (made of brass or nylon) to the cylinder of the steering system for the movement of the pistons.
The hydraulic cylinders are double-acting: so there are two rooms in the hydraulic cylinder. When oil is pumped in one room, at the same time, of the other room oil flows back into the control unit. In the control unit are also valves installed to ensure that forces from outside on the hydraulic piston (e.g. waves, motor forces), cannot be transferred to the control unit. These valves also provide a split at various steering modes.
Notes to the selection of a hydraulic steering system
The forces necessary for the work of a hydraulic steering, be affected by several factors
1. Boat speed
2. The dimensions of the rudder, engine performance
3. Propeller size
4. Boat type
5. Water flows and weather conditions
It is also crucial which steering system is combined with the hydraulic cylinder. For example, one takes a steering system with a small volume chamber (amount of oil that is pumped turning the wheel) and combines this with a hydraulic cylinder with a large volume, it will make the necessary forces small. However in that case, to achieve a full release of the piston, many rotations are required. Does one choose the opposite, than just two rotations are required for a full release of the pistons. However, this costs a lot more power.
The choice for the build in steering system should be taken in consultation with the builder of the boat and/or engine manufacturer as well as the yard that runs the installation. In general these steering systems should not be built in at boats that sail faster than 60mph (97km/h) or whose engine power of that boat exceeds the specifications by the boat builder.