What is A Davit Launched Liferaft: Functions, Working Process and Significance

Safety at sea is paramount, and having dependable life-saving equipment can make all the difference in an emergency. The davit launched liferaft is one such vital piece of maritime safety equipment. In this article, we will focus on the topic that what is a davit-launched liferaft, exploring its functions, how it works, and why it is an indispensable component of maritime safety.

 

What are the Functions of a Davit Launched Liferaft

A davit launched liferaft is a specifically designed inflatable life raft that is used on ships, offshore platforms, and other marine vessels to evacuate passengers in the event of an emergency such as a ship sinking, fire, or other life-threatening circumstance. Davit-launched liferafts, as opposed to throw-overboard liferafts, are secured on deck and launched using mechanical davit systems.

How Does a Davit Launched Liferaft Work

A davit launched liferaft is stowed on a vessel, activated in an emergency, swiftly inflated, and safely launched into the water through a davit system and then occupied by passengers who use its provisions for survival until rescue arrives.

Stowage

Davit-launched liferafts are securely stored on the vessel, typically in designated compartments or containers on the deck or superstructure. These storage locations are designed to protect the liferafts from environmental elements and potential damage.

Activation

In the event of an emergency, the crew activates the release mechanism for the life raft. This can be done manually by pulling a release handle or automatically through a hydrostatic release unit. The hydrostatic release unit is designed to activate when the liferaft is submerged in water at a certain depth.

Inflation

Upon activation, the liferaft starts to inflate. Inflation is achieved through one of two primary methods:

a. CO2 Cylinder: Many davit launched life rafts are equipped with a carbon dioxide (CO2) cylinder. When the release mechanism is activated, it punctures the CO2 cylinder, allowing the gas to flow into the liferaft. This gas rapidly inflates the liferaft’s buoyant chambers, expanding it to its full size.

b. Gas and Water Pressure: Some liferafts use a combination of gas and water pressure for inflation. When the release mechanism is activated, a gas generator produces gas, which is then used to inflate the liferaft. Water pressure can also be employed to assist in the inflation process.

Launch

The liferaft is ready for deployment into the sea once it has been fully inflated. This is accomplished by the use of a davit system, which is a mechanical device designed to swing the liferaft out of its stowage place and safely lower it into the sea. Crew members run the davit system, which guarantees that the liferaft is deployed in a controlled and safe manner.

Occupancy

When the davit-launched life raft enters the water, it will stabilize and provide a safe platform for passengers to board. These liferafts are built to remain steady even in stormy seas. They usually have several entrances and are fitted with handholds and boarding ladders for convenient access. The liferaft also contains essential survival equipment, such as water, food, first aid supplies, and signaling devices.

Survival

Once inside the liferaft, individuals can use the materials given to sustain themselves until help arrives. The raft is self-contained, providing protection from the elements as well as the ability to signal for assistance using flares, radios, or other communication equipment.

Visibility

Davit launched liferafts are typically brightly colored, often in international orange or another highly visible hue. They are also equipped with reflective materials to enhance visibility, making it easier for search and rescue teams to locate them, especially during low-light conditions or at night.

Why is a Davit Launched Liferaft Important

A davit-launched life raft is critical in the maritime industry because it provides a quick and dependable means of evacuation and survival during sea crises.

Rapid Deployment

Time is of the essence in emergency circumstances at sea. Davit-launched liferafts can be released fast, minimizing the time it takes for passengers and crew to flee a sinking ship. When responding with disasters such as ship sinkings, fires, collisions, or other life-threatening incidents, swift deployment is critical.

Safety and Stability

Davit launched liferafts are designed to provide a safe and stable platform for occupants. They are constructed to remain upright and buoyant even in rough seas, high winds, and adverse weather conditions. This stability is critical to prevent capsizing and ensure the safety of those on board.

Capacity

These liferafts are available in a variety of sizes to accommodate various vessel types and passenger loads. Their adaptability allows them to be used in a variety of marine circumstances, from small pleasure boats to huge commercial vessels. Some davit-launched liferafts can carry dozens of passengers, offering plenty of space for everyone on board.

Regulatory Compliance

International maritime rules, specifically those stated in the SOLAS Convention, require the presence of davit-launched liferafts on certain types of boats, such as commercial ships and passenger vessels. Compliance with these laws emphasizes the need of these liferafts while also ensuring that vessels are outfitted to fulfill severe safety standards.

Self-Containment

Davit-launched liferafts are typically equipped with essential survival supplies, including fresh water, non-perishable food, first aid kits, and signaling devices such as flares and radios. This self-containment allows passengers to sustain themselves until rescue arrives, even in remote or challenging maritime environments.

Visibility

 The life raft is designed with high-visibility colors, often in international orange or yellow, to enhance their visibility from a distance. Reflective materials are also commonly used to increase visibility during low-light conditions or at night. This visibility is essential for search and rescue teams trying to locate liferafts in the vastness of the open sea.

Reliability

Davit launched liferafts undergo rigorous testing and quality assurance to ensure their reliability in emergencies. They are designed to withstand harsh environmental conditions, including exposure to seawater, UV radiation, and extreme temperatures.

Peace of Mind

The provision of davit-launched liferafts offers passengers and crew with peace of mind. Knowing that there is a reliable means of escape and survival in the event of an emergency fosters a sense of security and confidence while at sea.

Evacuation of Non-Swimmers

A liferaft is especially important for vessels transporting passengers who may not be strong swimmers, such as youngsters, the elderly, or anyone with limited mobility. Liferafts offer a safe and convenient mode of evacuation for all passengers, regardless of swimming ability.

Conclusion

A davit-launched liferaft is critical to marine safety because it provides a dependable means of escape and survival in emergency situations at sea. These inflatable life rafts are designed to resist rough weather and protect people until assistance arrives. They are securely stowed on vessels and launched using mechanical davit systems.