TOPIC 1; Earth's
Magnetism and its
Relation to Ship's
Deviation
Earth's magnetic field acts like a giant bar
magnet. This field influences a ship's
compass, causing deviations in its
readings. Understanding these deviations
is crucial for accurate navigation.
Magnetic Variation
Magnetic variation is the angle between true
north and magnetic north at a particular location.
This angle changes depending on location and
time.
1 Annual Change
Magnetic variation changes over time
due to the Earth's dynamic magnetic
field.
2 Correction to Current Year
Mariners must apply corrections to
compass readings to account for annual
variation.
3 Navigational Charts
Nautical charts provide information
about magnetic variation and its annual
change.
Characteristics
of a Compass
A compass is a navigational instrument that relies on
the Earth's magnetic field.
Magnetic Compass Lubber’s
Needle Rose Line
The compass The compass rose Lubber's line is a
needle aligns itself provides a circular reference point on
with the Earth's scale with degrees the compass that
magnetic field. for navigation. indicates the
ship's heading.
Concept of Ship's
Deviation
Ship's deviation is the error in a compass reading
caused by the ship's own magnetic fields.
Iron and Steel
Iron and steel used in a ship's structure
create magnetic fields that interfere with
the compass.
Electrical Equipment
Electrical equipment onboard generates
magnetic fields that influence compass
readings.
Compass Error
Deviation causes the compass to point
away from true north, leading to
navigational errors.
Deviation due to Permanent
Magnetism
Permanent magnetism is a fixed magnetic field within the ship caused by the
materials used in its construction.
1 Forward 2 Vertical 3 Corrections
Magnetism Magnetism
The ship's bow has a The ship's vertical Permanent magnetism
permanent magnetic magnetic field also can be corrected using
field that attracts the affects the compass magnetic compass
compass needle. readings, especially in adjustment
the ship's stern. techniques.
Magnetic Compass
Adjustment
Magnetic compass adjustment is a process to minimize deviation by
introducing counteracting magnetic forces.
Method Description
Helm Adjustment Adjusting the compass by
moving magnets near the
compass card.
Flooding Adjustment Adjusting the compass by
filling a compass container
with water.
Topic 2:
Navigation
Fundamentals:
The Magnetic
Compass
The magnetic compass remains a crucial
instrument for navigation, providing
essential information about a vessel's heading.
Liquid Card Magnetic Compass
Assembly
Components Functionality Maintenance
The compass card is The liquid helps Routine maintenance
mounted in a bowl dampen oscillations includes checking the
filled with a viscous and ensures the card liquid level, removing
liquid. The card remains level, air bubbles, and
features markings facilitating accurate ensuring free
that indicate readings. movement of the
degrees, while the card.
needle points to
magnetic north.
Reading a Magnetic
Compass
1 Step 1: Identify North
Locate the compass needle, which
points towards magnetic north.
2 Step 2: Align Ship's Heading
Note the compass reading, which
represents the ship's heading in
degrees.
3 Step 3: Correct for Deviation
Account for magnetic deviation, which
is the compass error caused by the
ship's own magnetism.
Magnetic Compass
Maintenance
Liquid Level
Ensure the liquid level is sufficient to
cover the compass card completely,
preventing air bubbles from forming.
Air Bubbles
Remove any air bubbles that may have
formed, as they can affect the card's
movement and accuracy.
Free Movement
Verify the compass card is free to rotate
without any obstructions or friction.
SOLAS Requirements
for Magnetic
Compass
1 Accuracy
SOLAS regulations specify performance
standards for magnetic compasses,
including accuracy requirements.
2 Installation
The compass must be installed in a location
free from magnetic interference.
3 Calibration
Regular calibration is mandatory to ensure
accuracy and compensate for any deviation.
TOPIC 3: Taking
Bearing Using the
Magnetic Compass
Align the Compass
Hold the compass level and align the
lubber line with the landmark.
Read the Bearing
Note the compass reading, which
represents the bearing to the landmark
in degrees.
Record the Bearing
Document the bearing for future
reference or plotting on a chart.
TOPIC 4:True North
Geographic North
The geographic North Pole is the point on the
Earth's surface where all lines of longitude
converge.
Magnetic North
The magnetic North Pole is the point where the
Earth's magnetic field lines converge.
Compass North
The direction indicated by the magnetic compass
needle, which is influenced by both the Earth's
magnetic field and magnetic deviation.
Magnetic
Deviation
Cause Effect
Ship's Magnetism The ship's own magnetic
field can influence the
compass needle.
Nearby Metal Objects Metal objects on board
the ship, such as
machinery or structural
components, can distort
the Earth's magnetic
field.
Compass Error Correction
Deviation Card
A deviation card is used to record and correct
compass errors caused by magnetic deviation.
Compass Adjustment
By adjusting the compass, the navigator can
compensate for the deviation and obtain a
more accurate reading.
Navigation Accuracy
Correcting compass errors is crucial for
accurate navigation, ensuring safe and
efficient voyages.
