Hydraulic and pneumatic systems are the hidden force behind modern marine and offshore operations. From the fishing trawler hauling its nets, to an oil platform lifting tons of equipment, to a naval vessel navigating rough seas — every sector relies on reliable hydraulic infrastructure.
For companies in commercial fishing, marine transport, offshore oil and gas, and government maritime operations, downtime is not an option. Hydraulic failures can result in lost productivity, safety risks, and costly delays. That’s why DMA Hydraulics & Pneumatics (Pty) Ltd has become a trusted partner, delivering engineered solutions, system rebuilds, and commissioning services that keep vessels and platforms operating at peak performance.
In this blog, we’ll dive into the vital role hydraulics play in these industries, explore common challenges, and provide expert insights on maintenance, spare parts sourcing, and safety.
1. Commercial Fishing: Hydraulics That Keep Fleets Productive
Fishing vessels operate under extreme conditions. Saltwater, humidity, and continuous heavy loads place enormous stress on hydraulic systems.
Key Hydraulic Applications in Fishing
- Winches and Net Hauling Systems – hydraulic winches haul in heavy nets filled with tonnes of catch.
- Steering Systems – precise hydraulics allow vessels to manoeuvre safely in crowded harbours and open seas.
- Cranes and Lifting Gear – hydraulic deck cranes load supplies, equipment, and catch efficiently.
- Gear Shifting – hydraulic power ensures smooth and reliable transmission for fishing vessels.
Common Challenges
- Corrosion from salt exposure wears down pumps, valves, and fittings.
- System contamination (sand, dirt, or seawater intrusion) can clog filters and damage components.
- Heavy workloads accelerate wear on winches and cranes.
Best Practices for Fishing Fleets
- Conduct routine oil analysis to identify contamination early.
- Replace sacrificial anodes and seals before failure.
- Keep critical spare parts (filters, hoses, winch motors) onboard.
- Train crews in basic hydraulic troubleshooting to avoid downtime at sea.
2. Marine Transport & Shipping: Hydraulics That Drive Global Trade
Shipping is the backbone of international trade, with vessels carrying more than 80% of global goods. Hydraulics are essential for precision, safety, and efficiency in shipping operations.
Hydraulic Applications in Shipping
- Cargo Handling Systems – cranes, hatch covers, and container securing rely on hydraulic systems.
- Steering Gear – high-capacity hydraulic pumps provide stable navigation for massive cargo ships.
- Deck Machinery – mooring winches, windlasses, and ramps are powered hydraulically.
- Stabilizers – reduce roll for passenger and cargo safety.
Challenges in Shipping Hydraulics
- High operating pressures put stress on seals and hoses.
- Harsh environments (long voyages, temperature shifts) degrade components.
- Downtime costs are immense — delays can affect global supply chains.
Solutions for Shipping Operators
- Condition monitoring sensors for real-time performance data.
- Use OEM or certified aftermarket parts from trusted suppliers like Hydraulic Fittings.
- Implement predictive maintenance schedules tied to voyage cycles.
- Ensure spare part availability at global ports through suppliers linked with DMA.
3. Offshore Platforms & Oil Rigs: Mission-Critical Hydraulics
Offshore rigs and platforms are among the most demanding environments for hydraulic and pneumatic systems. These systems support mission-critical operations that cannot afford downtime.
Hydraulic Applications in Oil & Gas
- Blowout Preventers (BOPs) – vital safety equipment controlled by high-pressure hydraulics.
- Drilling Equipment – hoists, tongs, and rotary tables powered by hydraulic infrastructure.
- Deck Cranes and Winches – heavy lifting for pipes, risers, and supplies.
- Hydraulic Power Units (HPUs) – provide centralised energy for rig operations.
Key Challenges Offshore
- Extreme safety requirements under international regulations (ABS, DNV, IMO).
- Saltwater corrosion on exposed systems.
- High-pressure failures that can halt drilling operations.
Offshore Best Practices
- Frequent hydraulic fluid sampling to check for contamination.
- Maintain an inventory of critical spares offshore (pumps, hoses, valves).
- Commission certified rebuilds and upgrades with companies like DMA.
- Integrate remote monitoring for predictive maintenance in offshore assets.
4. Government & Maritime Authorities: Supporting Defense & Safety
From naval fleets to coast guard patrols and research vessels, hydraulics play a central role in national defense, law enforcement, and scientific exploration.
Applications in Maritime Authorities
- Steering and propulsion systems in naval vessels.
- Deck cranes and lifting gear for search and rescue missions.
- Hydraulic launch and recovery systems for boats and submersibles.
- Stabilisation and control in research vessels operating in rough seas.
Critical Needs for Government Fleets
- Reliability and uptime for mission readiness.
- Compliance with naval and international standards.
- Secure sourcing of spares to avoid compromised supply chains.
Best Practices for Maritime Authorities
- Maintain fleet-wide spare parts inventory.
- Commission system rebuilds during dry-dock periods.
- Train crew in safety protocols for high-pressure hydraulics.
- Work with trusted partners like DMA & Hydraulic Fittings for verified components.
Spare Parts Supply: DMA + Hydraulic Fittings Partnership
Marine operators often face challenges sourcing reliable spares. Counterfeit or poor-quality parts can lead to system failure, safety risks, and costly downtime.
DMA partners with Hydraulic Fittings, their sister company, to ensure clients have access to genuine OEM and certified aftermarket spares.
- Customers can purchase directly from Hydraulic Fittings.
- Alternatively, spares can be acquired via DMA Hydraulics for seamless integration into rebuilds, servicing, and commissioning projects.
This ensures operators in fishing, shipping, oil & gas, and government fleets always have access to parts that meet international standards.
Marine and offshore industries depend on robust, safe, and reliable hydraulic systems. Whether it’s pulling nets in commercial fishing, steering cargo vessels, operating offshore rigs, or powering naval missions — hydraulics are the lifeblood of operations at sea.
By investing in preventive maintenance, system rebuilds, certified spare parts, and trained crews, operators reduce downtime, extend equipment life, and safeguard lives and cargo.
With DMA Hydraulics & Pneumatics — and their trusted supply partner Hydraulic Fittings — clients can rely on a partner who understands the unique challenges of the sea and delivers solutions that keep fleets and rigs operational.
