ISP launches new Hydrostatic Release Unit

The SeaMate HRU VE-1, which has been approved by Det Norske Veritas (DNV), fits all Sola liferafts from six to 150 persons. The small model has been designed for easy use without the need for maintenance, spares or separate service intervals.

Geoff Billington, sales director, ISP, said: “These units play a vital role in safety at sea using contact with water as the stimulus to release liferafts from vessels. This latest model has been reinforced with more robust materials than previous designs.”

He added: “The vast majority of these units have a working lifespan of around two years. However, the SeaMate HRU VE-1 model has been designed to last more than 50% longer. This means the mechanism only needs replacing at three year intervals. Crucially, this will help to reduce the through life costs of liferafts and greatly improve long term durability.”

The product, which was launched at METS, will seal the partnership between ISP and Dutch ocean equipment manufacturer, T-ISS, which will see ISP become the sole UK supplier of the SeaMate HRU VE-1.

This generation of the product will be extended with an automatic release unit in 2013 and a HRU for small rafts for up to six people.