Activated Fin Stabilizers
Since the invention of the activated fin stabilizer in the early 1920's
all stabilizer systems have been operated hydraulically, hydroelectri
cally or hydroelectronically, as these were the available technolo
gies. In the past few years, the more advanced pneumatic technology
has emerged and proven its superiority in various application fields.
The Gyro-Gale system is a classic application of the advanced pneu
matic technology in the stabilizers field.
Principles Of Operation
Generally, a rate gyro is continuously activating and positioning two
(or more) aerofoil shaped fins, which project from the sides of the
vessel, so that one fin develops upward lift while the other develops
downward lift. Thus, the combination produces the required stabiliz
ing torque, which counteracts the rolling force induced by the wave
action. Consequently, the performance of the stabilizers is entirely
dependent upon applying the correct amount of righting torque at
precisely the right moment.
In other words, an efficient system should feature a variable inci
dence fin which is capable of adjusting its angle of attack to the water
. in proportion to the speed of the vessel, to produce the correct amount
of lift through the full range of speed. In addition, the system should
offer a control unit and working medium which permit the activation
of the fin simultaneous to the response of the gyro.
Gyro-Gale Pneumatic stabilizers
Gyro-Gale is a pneumatic controlled and operated system, thus pro
viding comfortable, smooth, quiet and reliable air-cushioned stabili
zation. The system comprises the latest advanced pneumatic equip
ment and devices, most of which are standard industrial items. These
components, when interconnected, provide the simplest, yet most
advanced and efficient stabilizing system. It stops the roll almost
before it starts.
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Gyro-Gale Features Installation
No requirement for electric connections.
No requirement for hull strengthening at fin locations.
No requirement for through-hull stuffing box or gland
seal.
Light weight equipment, totaling 272 lbs. for the two
fins system, thus reducing
installation time (40 man hours)
and cost.
Operation
Simple "on-of" pneumatic switch for operation.
No adjustment required for various sea conditions.
Water-lubricated fin bearing for smooth and quiet
operation.
Performance
Variable incidence fin, self-adjustable for various
vessel's
speeds, obtained by pneumatically balancing
the hydrodynamic
water pressure on the fin, thus
providing maximum stabilization
(up to 90%) through
the entire range of speed (4 to 50 knots).
Control unit with one moving part, yielding nearly
simultaneous
(0.23 sec.) relay of gyro response to the
fin activating mechanism.
Frictionless air as working medium, for fast response
and added comfort through
air-cushioned stabilization.
Anticipation of roll and instant reaction to it, within 3
o
Minimizes pitching motion (Quadra Fins only).
Various fin configurations for optimum performance
with various hulls.
Maintenance
Fully automatic self-cleaning and lubricating, just add
lubricating mineral oil
every 250 hours of operation.
Working medium air, never needs refill.
Easily repairable interconnecting nylon tubing.
Safety
Breakaway fin bearing to shear off from the hull under
heavy impact, thus leaving
the hull intact.
Operation on low air pressure ( l00 psi) in the event
of damaged
connector, only clean air escapes, as
opposed to the highly
pressurized flammable fluid used
in hydraulic systems.
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