Compass Adjustment & Magnetic Correction | Sri Lanka

A ship’s magnetic compass remains the most dependable reference for safe navigation, even in the age of advanced electronic systems. At Earndeck Shipping Pvt Ltd, we provide professional compass adjustment and magnetic correction services to ensure your vessel’s compass delivers reliable headings in full compliance with SOLAS and international maritime regulations.

What is Compass Adjustment?

Compass adjustment is the process of identifying and correcting magnetic deviation caused by a vessel’s steel structure, machinery, and onboard equipment. By compensating for these magnetic influences, the compass can accurately indicate the vessel’s heading, ensuring safe navigation and reliable reference data for other navigational systems.

Why Compass Adjustment is Essential

• ✔Ensures compliance with SOLAS, Flag State, and classification society requirements.
• ✔Eliminates heading errors caused by magnetic deviation.
• ✔Provides a reliable reference for gyrocompass, radar, and ECDIS calibration.
• ✔Acts as the vessel’s primary non-electronic navigation backup.
• ✔Improves navigational safety, voyage planning, and operational efficiency.

Our Compass Adjustment Process

1. 1
   Pre-Adjustment Review

   Assessment of vessel particulars, construction details, past magnetic history, and recent modifications.

2. 2
   Deviation Measurement

   Deviation is measured on multiple headings using a datum compass or azimuth mirror under controlled conditions.

3. 3
   Magnetic Correction

   Adjustment of permanent magnets and soft iron correctors, including quadrantal spheres and Flinders bar, to minimize deviation.

4. 4
   Deviation Table Preparation

   Preparation of a clear deviation table and curve for bridge use, indicating residual deviation on all headings.

5. 5
   Certification & Verification

   Final verification of compass accuracy and issuance of a signed Compass Adjustment Certificate.

Who Requires Compass Adjustment?

Compass adjustment is required for newbuild vessels, ships after dry docking or steel repairs, vessels undergoing major equipment changes, ships trading to different magnetic latitudes, and during annual or periodical safety surveys.

Why Accuracy Matters

Even small compass errors can result in significant navigational deviations over long distances. Accurate magnetic compass readings reduce the risk of grounding, collision, and navigational disputes, especially during equipment failure or restricted visibility.

Why Choose Earndeck Shipping Pvt Ltd?

Earndeck Shipping Pvt Ltd provides professional compass adjustment services delivered by certified marine surveyors with extensive sea-going experience and formal Magnetic Compass Adjuster qualifications. Our team understands both the theory of magnetism and the practical challenges faced onboard vessels, ensuring precise correction, clear documentation, and full compliance with SOLAS, Flag State, and classification society requirements.

Frequently Asked Questions