Windlass / Mooring Winch
Monthly
- Check the condition of the foundation and Securing Bolts.
- Check the Clutch Movement is free and securing pins are in place and good condition
- Check Clutch Mechanism for fatigue and excessive wear.
- Check the oil level
- Carry out greasing as per schedule, check for Grease nipples condition and working.
- Check for Marking in the winches and mooring area is clear and visible (Snapback Zone, Heaving Instructions).
- Check Brake Band Condition (Brake band should completely touching the drum).
- Check Drum is free of Rust and Scale.
- Check Engaging Gear Clearance.
- The Clutch Mating Surfaces should be checked for wear. If the wear is excessive and the surfaces are tapered, an axial component of the force will tend to de-clutch the drum and thereby exert excessive force on the engaging lever securing pin. This may cause the pin to shear and de-clutch the drum.
- Shaft Bearing bushes must be kept well lubricated. These must be checked for wear regularly by checking the clearances and/or inspecting by removing the upper half.
- Effective lubrication of mooring winch/ windlass and other such equipments can be best achieved while the equipment is running (rotating). Adequate amount of grease should be introduced into the bearings until the all old grease comes out. All old/excess grease must be wiped out, otherwise it will act as dust catcher.
- If knocking sound is observed, hydraulic motors must be checked for air trap at the purging plugs provided.
- Brake lining thickness must be checked. When anchoring speed is high the anchor runs away and the brake lining might get damaged due to heat. Thus dropping the anchor and repeating the drop and stoppage at every ½ shackle is advisable to prevent damages to brake liner due to temperature rise.
- When the brake lining has worn away it can be adjusted to render the necessary holding force. Often manufacturer’s recommend after a specific reduction in thickness of the brake lining to replace it with new one
However, when the liner thickness reduces within the limits applicable, brake setting can be adjusted with the regulating screw as a makeshift measure.
Both the linings, upper and lower should be changed at the same time.