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The process

1. Select the hydraulic devices you want to install, using the same calculations and processes used for electric devices
2. Make a list of device combinations that may operate at the same time. (e.g. bow and stern thruster)
3. Determine how much power will be needed by the most demanding of these combinations of devices
4. Identify power sources that can deliver that power (i.e. propulsion engines, propulsion gearboxes, diesel generators,
diesel power packs). Remember that propulsion engines are idling during docking manoeuvres and that they must
turn the PTOs and the main propellers. In addition, for a propulsion engine mounted PTO to be feasible, there must be
adequate clearance between the case of the required pump and the engine block and oil pan/sump
5. Ensure that the propulsion engines, gearboxes and gensets are ordered with SAE B or C flange Power Take Offs (PTOs),
rated for the power output needed to drive the most demanding device combination
6. Specify a pump or pumps that can deliver the flow required when the PTO is turning at its standard speed during
docking manoeuvres. Take into account the direction of rotation of the PTO (s), and the need to have the pump port
locations accessible
7. Select control devices (joysticks, etc.) and the valves to which they connect
8. Select a reservoir tank to store and de-foam the hydraulic fluid
9. Select blocks and manifolds for the control valves
10. Select one or more oil coolers to keep the hydraulic fluid within the appropriate temperature range
11. Install all of the hydraulic equipment and then measure for the required lengths of hydraulic hose and tubing. As the
hose or tubing will be required on the vessel within a few working hours of installing the equipment and measuring the
hose and tubing runs and as metal fittings must be machine swaged onto hoses, it is usually best to make arrangements
for hoses and tubes with a supplier local to the vessel. Important for a correct selection of the hydraulic hose and/or
tubing is its function in the system; this determines the maximum oil pressure and the maximum flow rate for which the
hose and/or tubing must be suitable
12. Fill the system with the hydraulic fluid specified by VETUS, then commission and adjust all elements of the system

Hydraulic systems are complex and require a lot of expertise but the results are well worth the effort. A VETUS customer
support team member is available to you by email, at no cost, to discuss your vessel configuration and usage and to
recommend hydraulic user devices and central system equipment. You will receive our recommendations for your Power
Hydraulic system within 48 hours of all information being received and finalized. Remember that prime mover engines or
gearboxes must be ordered with Power Take Offs, which are difficult or impossible to retrofit.

Creators of Boat Systems 199