Electric Horn Suppliers and Manufacturers

Every ship at sea has to make sound signals for maneuvering, fog, and emergencies. COLREGs Rule 33 and SOLAS Chapter V make a working horn mandatory on every commercial vessel above 12 meters, with set frequency and audibility ranges by hull length. Electric horns now lead the market over older pneumatic and steam types — less maintenance, direct power from the ship's network, and easier type-approval testing.

The audibility numbers (over a nautical mile at minimum, sometimes up to two) are checked at every port state inspection.

RecordsMarine maintains a directory of electric horn suppliers and manufacturers for shipyards, deck officers, and procurement teams sourcing certified equipment.

Suppliers and Manufacturers — Two Different Roles

The two terms get used as if they mean the same thing. In practice, they don't.

Electric horn manufacturers design and build the units. They hold the type approvals, set warranty terms, and run the spare parts pipeline. Most have small product lines focused on marine signaling.

Electric horn suppliers move the equipment to the ship. They include authorized dealers, regional agents, port chandlers, and online platforms. A supplier may carry units from several manufacturers, stock spares for older models, and arrange delivery to specific ports.

Manufacturers make the horn. Suppliers deliver it. A direct order from the maker often costs more but covers the latest spec. A supplier order is usually faster and offers a wider brand choice, with less direct technical support.

Common Marine Electric Horn Types

The category covers several configurations:

• Single-tone horns — basic signaling, smaller vessels
• Multi-tone horns — required on larger commercial ships
• Air-electric hybrid horns — older retrofit setups
• Compact deck-mount units — workboats and yachts
• Mast-mount projector horns — long-range signaling
• Twin and triple horn arrangements — redundancy on SOLAS vessels

Frequency, sound pressure level, and beam direction differ by model. Suppliers of electric horns provide data sheets so the chosen unit matches the vessel length and required audibility.

Recommended Brands

A small group of makers leads the marine signaling market:

• Kockum Sonics
• Hadley Industries
• Marco
• Federal Signal Marine
• Klaxon Signals
• Tyfon
• Whelen Engineering
• Schermuly

Each carries IMO and class society type approval. Manufacturers publish sound pressure curves and beam patterns that surveyors check during navigation surveys.

What to Check Before Ordering

A short list to check before you place an order:

• Vessel length and required audibility range (1 to 2 nautical miles)
• Frequency band (70 to 700 Hz under COLREGs)
• Sound pressure level at one meter
• IP rating for deck exposure (IP65 minimum, IP66 better)
• Voltage matches the ship's electrical network
• Type approval valid for your flag state
• Lead time fitting the next survey or yard period
• Spare parts coverage and warranty terms

A clear specification sheet, with horn length and signal pattern included, prevents mismatches at installation.

Industry Standards

Marine electric horns must meet COLREGs Annex III, SOLAS Chapter V, IMO Resolution A.694, IEC 60945 for marine environmental conditions, and IACS class society rules. EU-flagged vessels also need MED wheelmark certification.

Frequently Asked Questions

Is it cheaper to buy from a manufacturer or a supplier?

Manufacturers offer better pricing on large or newbuild orders. For single replacements or small fleets, supplier volume discounts often beat the maker's list price.

Can a supplier provide the original warranty?

Yes, if the supplier is an authorized dealer. The manufacturer's warranty stays valid through the agreed dealer chain. Grey-market sources usually lose the warranty.

What documents should I expect with delivery?

Type approval certificate, test report, MSDS where relevant, and an invoice that matches the brand's part numbers.

Do manufacturers handle installation?

Rarely. Installation is arranged by the yard, the ship's crew, or a local electrical contractor.

How do I check if a supplier is authorized?

Most manufacturers publish an authorized dealer list on their website. Asking the supplier for a recent purchase invoice from the manufacturer is another quick check.

Find an Electric Horn Supplier or Manufacturer Near You

The directory below covers both makers and authorized agents working with shipyards and fleet operators across major maritime regions. Compare the entries, decide whether you need a manufacturer or a local supplier, and shortlist a partner for your vessel and survey schedule.