Q) Explain the on-load and off-load release mechanism of a lifeboat?
A) OFF-LOAD Release of lifeboat means that the load is off from the hooks. to release the lifeboat in this method the ship is lowered to the water. now the water pressure acts on the diaphragm placed underneath the lifeboat. this pressure moves the “coxwain release handle ” in green position. now the interlock placed in the hand lever is removed and handle is pulled to release the hook and the lifeboat is free to go.
ON-LOAD Release means that the lifeboat is released in any position or we can say that the lifeboat is released when the lifeboat hook is still in tension. for this the interloak is removed from hand lever and the glass protecting the “coxwain release handle” is broken. now it is moved to green side and now the hand lever is pulled to release the hooks and the lifeboat is set free.
Q) How many types of brakes are provided in lifeboats?
A) There are two types of brakes namely :
- drum brakes
- centrifugal brakes- to control the speed of lowering of lifeboat automatically . max rate of decendent is 36m/min.