What is ISO 11606 – Requirements for marine electromagnetic compasses about?
Magnetic compasses are one of the major maritime navigational equipment.
ISO 11606 is an International Standard that discusses ships and marine technology.
ISO 11606 specifies general requirements, type tests and individual tests for the marine electromagnetic compasses, intended for steering purposes and/or taking bearings on board ships, required by Chapter V of SOLAS, 1974 and the International Code of Safety for High-Speed Craft (HSC Code).
In accordance with IMO Resolution MSC.166(78), ISO 11606 is applicable to marine electromagnetic compasses fitted before 1 July 2002. For marine electromagnetic compasses installed on or after 1 July 2002, ISO 22090-2 is applicable.
The magnetic compasses specified in ISO 11606 apply to ships the overall length of which is normally not less than 24 m.
Who is ISO 11606 – Requirements for marine electromagnetic compasses for?
ISO 11606 on the requirements of marine electromagnetic compasses is useful for:
- Marine electromagnetic compass manufacturers
- Ship manufacturing companies
- Anyone involved in commissioning of marine electromagnetic compasses
- Product designers
- Engineers
- Quality control and testing authorities
- The marine and shipbuilding industry
- Local and national authorities
- Regulatory bodies
- Certification bodies
Why should you use ISO 11606 – Requirements for marine electromagnetic compasses?
Marine electromagnetic compass in navigation is an instrument for determining direction on the surface of Earth by means of a magnetic pointer that aligns itself with Earth's magnetic field. The readings from the compass, that are readily available onboard at all times, can be used to steer the ship on a fixed course. However, is it vital that the compass readings are accurate as an error of even one or two degrees in long sea passages translate into more nautical miles to be covered to reach the destination. For this reason, it is essential that the marine electromagnetic compasses be tested to demonstrate their accuracy and precision.
In this regard, ISO 11606 covers best industry requirements of construction and materials, appropriate performance characteristics along with precautions to be taken against various failure modes.
ISO 11606 also provides guidance on performance tests to be carried out to demonstrate whether your marine electromagnetic compasses are fit for purpose. This can be beneficial for quality control purposes to ensure accuracy and adeuqate electromagnetic compatibility of compasses for safe and reliable marine navigation.