Common problems in the use of release hooks

Common problems in the use of release hooks


 The release hook of the sling liferaft usually has the following outstanding problems:

1. Long-term and effective maintenance has not been carried out.

2. The crew members in charge are not familiar with the use of equipment and maintenance tools.

3.The release hook is not flexible, the movable clearance adheres to small particles such as cinders and sand, and the hook cannot be released.

4. Mistakenly using it as a lifeboat hook.

For this reason, this paper introduces the use and maintenance of the automatic release hook of the lift-raft with sling for the reference of relevant personnel.

1. Specifications

According to the relevant requirements of the International Life-saving Equipment Regulations, life-saving equipment shall include automatic release hooks, which shall be arranged to prevent premature disengaging during landing and to disengage the liferaft from the water. It must have the ability to disengage under load.

2. Method of use

1) When the liferaft is lowered to about 2 meters from the water surface, pull the quick release hook rope, so that the hook short handle is in the release position and the liferaft is not separated from the hook.

2) Continue to lower the liferaft. When the liferaft falls to the surface, because of its buoyancy, the hook will not bear the weight, and the hook will be released automatically.

3) Insert the handle into the bottom hole of the hook head and pull the handle to reset or open the hook head.

3. Common hooks

Automatic release hook for both lifeboat and liferaft.

The hook has a removable baffle that can be quickly attached to the lifeboat and the liferaft ring is locked and has an automatic release function.

Rescue craft special manual release hook

The release hook is equipped with movable baffle and can be quickly attached to the lifeboat sling, but it does not have automatic release function, so it cannot be used to hang the liferaft.

4. Maintenance

1) Hooks should be maintained regularly. Grease should be added to all moving parts. Don't use butter. The butter will form a knot and stick to the pieces for a long time.

2) It is more difficult to pull the release handle, which means the hook needs to be cleaned and maintained. It can be removed and cleaned with oil.

3) After cleaning, grease should be applied to the moving part of the hook and grease should be applied to the stationary part to prevent rust.

4) Insert the hook into the bottom of the hook block with the release cable handle every month to perform hook switch operation for many times to keep the hook active.

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