Starters - General Information
Marine Starters are essential components in the ship's machinery. They are used to initiate the operation of all kinds of marine engines. They provide the necessary torque to turn over the engine until it can operate under its own power. Due to the demanding conditions at sea and the wide range of engine sizes, marine vessels rely on different types of starter motors to suit specific applications.
Types of Marine Starters
Different starters are available based on the engine requirements, available onboard systems, and operational environment.
The three basic types of starters are the following:
- Electric Starters. These starter motors are commonly used in small to medium-sized marine engines due to their simplicity and ease of maintenance. They are powered by batteries and are simple to install and maintain. They provide instant torque, but their functionality may be limited by the battery capacity.
- Air Starters. They utilize compressed air to rev the engine and offer higher torque and reliability in critical start-up scenarios. Suitable for larger capacity ship engines, they require a strong air pressurized supply and the necessary auxiliary equipment such as air compressors. They are widely used in commercial and military vessels where robustness and quick response are vital.
- Hydraulic Starters. Suitable for medium to large ship engines, they utilize pressurized fluid to drive the engine, delivering high torque and smooth operation. However, they are more complex in their operation and maintenance, and as a result, have higher operating costs.
Each of the above types balances power, reliability, and different infrastructure needs. Air starters dominate large bore engines, electric starters smaller engines with less demanding applications, and hydraulic starters offer a versatile middle ground for varied marine applications.

Starters Manufacturers & Types
Maker | Japan | Europe |
---|---|---|
BOSCH | - | Genuine |
DELCO | - | OEM |
GALI | - | Genuine |
HITACHI | Genuine | - |
INGERSOLL | - | Genuine |
IPU | Genuine | - |
MITSUBISHI | Genuine | - |
POWERSTART | - | Genuine |
PRESTOLITE | - | - |
RAND | - | Genuine |
STARTWELL | - | Genuine |
TDI | - | Genuine |

Why Choose Oceantech Ltd for Starters & Spare Parts
In Oceantech Shipping & Trading ltd, we are proud to keep up with the latest advances in starters technology. We have a well-trained, service-minded team of technicians, with many years of experience with air starters, and generic ship equipment. As a result, we can use this knowledge to deliver excellent parts and maintenance services to our customers. We can cater to a wide range of starter manufactures and types both with genuine or OEM spare parts.
For more information, please get in touch with us, and we'll prepare a quotation for you as soon as possible.
Tel: +30 2130337678
Email: oceantech@ost.gr