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MEO CLASS 1 · ORAL QUESTION 11

Q4- Lifeboat Davit maintenance and checks. How is the wire ordered? What is special about this wire? Who can supply? Is there a certificate required?

Answer

For Launching Davits: 402 (96)

1). Davit or other launching structures, in particular with reg ard to corrosion, misalignments, deformation and excessive free play
2). wires and sheaves, possible damage such as kinks and corrosion; .

3 lubrications of wires, sheaves and moving parts; and

4 if applicable: .1). functioning of limit switches;
2). stored power systems;
3). hydraulic systems; and

For Winches:

1). Inspecting the braking system in accordance with winch manual. 2). replacing brake pads, when necessary;
3). winch foundation; and
4). if applicable: 1). remote control system
2). power supply system

For winches of the launching appliances for lifeboats (including free-fall lifeboats), rescue boats, fast rescue boats and life rafts, annual operational testing shall be done by lowering the empty craft or boat or equivalent load. When the craft has reached its maximum lowering speed and before the craft enters the water, the brake shall be abruptly applied. Following these tests, the stressed structural parts shall be reinspected where the structure permits the reinspection.

Five-year thorough examination, overhaul and overload operational tests

The five-year operational test of the winches of the launching appliances shall be carried out with a proof load equal to 1.1 times the weight of the survival craft or rescue boat and its full complement of persons and equipment. When the proof load has reached its maximum lowering speed, the brake shall be abruptly applied.

Following these tests, the stressed structural parts shall be reinspected where the structure permits the reinspection.

The operational tests and overhaul at five-year intervals of release gear for lifeboats (including free-fall lifeboats), rescue boats, fast rescue boats and liferafts shall include: .

1). Dismantling of hook release units;
2). examinations with reg ard to tolerances and design requirements;
3). adjustment of release gear system after assembly;
4). operational tests as described above but with a load equal to 1.1 times the weight of the survival craft or rescue boat and its full complement of persons and equipment; and
5). examinations of vital parts with reg ard to defects and cracks.

How the wire is ordered:

Steel wire rope covered by plastic/vinyl cover
Material:Galvanized steel wire rope (GSWR) is made from carbon steel wires that are coated with zinc to provide corrosion resistance in marine environments.

Construction: The wire rope is usually constructed in a 7x19 configuration, which means it consists of seven strands, each containing 19 individual wires. This construction offers flexibility and strength, making it suitable for applications such as lifeboat davits. Non kinking or non twist type and as per manual, right hand twist or left hand twist.

Diameter: The diameter of the wire rope depends on the specific requirements of the davit system and the load it needs to support. Common diameters range from 6mm to 12mm or more.

Load Capacity: The wire rope should have a load capacity that exceeds the maximum load expected during the operation of the lifeboat davits. This ensures safety and reliability in emergency situations.

Galvanization: The zinc coating provides protection against corrosion, which is essential for marine applications. The thickness of the galvanized coating should meet industry standards to ensure long-term durability.

Certificate for lifeboat davit ropes: Look for wire ropes that meet relevant international standards and certifications for maritime safety, such as those from classification societies like DNV, ABS, or Lloyds Register.

Supplier Recommendations: Consult with the supplier or manufacturer to ensure that the wire rope meets the specific requirements of your vessel's lifeboat davits and complies with applicable regulations and guidelines. Supplier to be approved by Flag.