Navigation
Related

Navigation

Related

Electric helicopter handling system, max towing force up to 60.02 kN (Technical supply specification)


1. General Information (Operating Conditions)

The helicopter handling system operates reliably under the following conditions:

  • Ambient temperature: -40°C to +35°C
  • Wind speed from any direction: up to 25 m/s
  • Roll: amplitude 12.5°, period 7 s
  • Pitch: amplitude 4°, period 4 s
  • Operation at Sea State 6

2. Purpose

The helicopter handling system ensures the transportation of Mi-38, Mi-8, and Ka-32 type helicopters from the helipad to the hangar and back on the 3rd tier superstructure deck.

The HTV drive, consisting of two electric winches, is designed for:

  • moving the helicopters (hereinafter referred to as aircraft) smoothly without jerks, spontaneous displacements, or uncoupling of the towing unit, while eliminating unacceptable loads during start and stop;
  • immediate stopping in case of an emergency.

The helicopter handling system delivers pulling and holding forces while synchronizing the winch speeds. During movement between the helipad and the hangar, the force must be applied to the aircraft at an angle not exceeding ±25° relative to its longitudinal axis.

The vehicle performs rendering and tensioning of the ropes during preparatory operations in both synchronous and independent winch operation modes, in accordance with the set speeds.

The helicopter handling system allows for the movement of the aircraft after landing on the helipad at an arbitrary angle to the vessel’s centerline, with subsequent return to the position required for towing into the hangar.

Helicopter handling system overall drawing top view
Helicopter handling system overall drawing top view

About

Helicopter Handling System: Modern Solutions for Maritime Aviation

The helicopter handling system is an engineered system designed for the safe and precise movement of helicopters on a vessel’s deck. It integrates helicopter handling with hangar operations, minimizing damage risks and ensuring precise positioning during all procedures. The system relies on synchronous and independent winches managing the ropes to ensure smooth movement of heavy aircraft, even during ship motion and high sea states.

Features of Maritime Operation

Modern helicopter handling systems are developed specifically to handle the harsh marine environment. They can adjust operations under wind loads and ship motion, which enhances safety and reduces the probability of incidents. Using these systems on research expedition vessels increases the efficiency of deck operations, accelerates helicopter flight preparation, and optimizes crew performance.

Role of the Manufacturer

Izhora Hydrosystems LLC is a developer and manufacturer of advanced helicopter handling systems. The application of modern design, automation, and quality control technologies enables the creation of equipment that combines precision, ergonomics, and durability. The company’s products are in high demand for both research and commercial vessels, ensuring operational reliability in all environments.

System Control and Monitoring

Helicopter handling systems are equipped with control and signaling tools that help monitor the movement process and prevent errors. Proper deck layout and the use of guidelines ensure synchronized operation of all system elements, simplifying equipment integration into the vessel’s existing infrastructure.

Prospects and Applications

The development of helicopter handling technologies opens new opportunities for maritime aviation. The engineering solutions applied in these systems provide a high level of control and positioning accuracy, making this equipment indispensable on modern research expedition and commercial vessels.


3. Scope of Supply

3.1. Helicopter handling system

3.1.1 Product components

ComponentQuantity
Helicopter handling system assembly1 set
Electric towing winch (left-hand configuration)1 pc.
Electric towing winch (right-hand configuration)1 pc.
Fairlead sheave16 pcs.
Fairlead support16 pcs.
Plug16 pcs.
Deck socket16 pcs.
Guide block4 pcs.
Interlocking device with limit switch, removable (left-hand configuration)1 pc.
Interlocking device with limit switch, removable (right-hand configuration)1 pc.
Removable stopper2 pcs.
Local control panel1 pc.
Control cabinet1 pc.
Rope with snap hook2 pcs.
Cable trays2 sets
Towing device for Ka-32 helicopter1 pc.
Illuminated signs4 pcs.
Flashing beacon3 pcs.
Siren bell3 pcs.

Equipment included in the scope of supply

3.1.2 Main parameters

ParameterValue
Pull force with force application at an angle to the aircraft axis not exceeding ±25º, kN- on the 1st rope layer- on the 2nd rope layer- on the 3rd rope layer
60.02±6.0056.10±5.6152.66±5.27
Weight of the transported helicopter, t16.56
Winch footprint area, not more than, mm1845×1384
Winch overall height, not more than, mm870
Low towing speed, m/s (m/min)0.16±0.03
High towing speed, m/s (m/min)0.33±0.06
Control panel cable length, m35±0.5
Visual operation status signaling+
Main drive typeelectric
Backup drive type, manual, with handle force not exceeding, N117±0.68
Main drive interlock during backup drive operation+
Winch drum rope capacity, m141
Ambient temperature, °C-40 to +35
Water temperature, °C-2 to +32
Wind speed from any direction, m/sup to 25
Rollamplitude 12.5°, period 7 s
Pitchamplitude 4°, period 4 s
Operation at sea statenot more than 6
Total weight of HTV assembly, kg5715
HTV service life, years26
Towing device for Ka-32 helicopter is supplied with the HTV+
Audible warning alarm triggered at the maximum allowable paid-out rope length (0.85 of total length)+
Automatic winch shutdown upon reaching the minimum rope length, with the rendering speed reduced to zero+
Holding force of the winch brake (shoe type with electrohydraulic thruster), kNnot less than 160
Indication of paid-out winch rope length on the local control station+
Anti-condensation heating of the electric motor (for winter operation) – 50 Hz, 220 V+
Winch system control unit ensures individual and group operation modes+
Winch system group control unit ensures automatic rope tensioning+
Control system ensures stepless speed adjustment+
Helicopter handling system complies with clause 5 of OAT GA-90+
HTV power supply380 V / 50 Hz / 3-phase
Power consumption, kW40
Protection rating of electrical equipment installed in the hangar, not less thanIP65
Protection rating of electrical equipment installed on the deck, not less thanIP65
HTV electrical equipment executionExplosion-proof
Explosion protection marking according to GOST 31610.0-20191 Exd IIАТ3 and 1 Exp IIТ3 / 1 Exe d IIC T6 Gb
Interfacing protocol between HTV and telescopic hangar doors providing mutual interlocks+
Helicopter handling system is equipped with visual and audible signaling+
All cables are manufactured from flame-retardant materials+
All communication, signaling, and remote control cables are shielded twisted pair (STP)+
Contacts between electrical equipment with different electrical potentials are eliminated+
All stationary control panels and electrical cabinets included in the equipment feature cable glands, external grounding bolts, and doors with open-position retainers+
Interface language is Russian+
All electrical equipment is of an approved type and designed for marine application+

3.1.3 Spare parts, tools, and accessories kit (SPTA kit)

The following items are supplied along with the equipment:

Spare parts, tools, and accessories (SPTA) in a scope not less than required by the RS (Russian Maritime Register of Shipping) Rules.

The SPTA scope ensures 1 year of operation and complies with the operation and maintenance manual.

The SPTA kit is considered part of the vessel’s inventory and is handed over to the crew upon delivery. The SPTA items are appropriately marked in Russian.

The SPTA list is compiled by the equipment supplier based on the maintenance manual and is subject to approval by the Customer.

The SPTA list is issued by the supplier as a separate sheet in Russian. The sheet must specify the designation, description, quantity, and weight of the SPTA items.

The following items are additionally included in the SPTA kit:

  • Set of spare shutdown sensors;
  • Emergency stop buttons;
  • SPTA kit for the control cabinet and control panel;
  • Trolley for moving 40 kg fairleads from the storage location to the installation sites.

3.1.4 Documentation

DocumentQuantity
Logbook/Data sheet3
Technical description3
Operating instructions3
Installation instructions3
Troubleshooting and repair instructions3
Component description3
Drawings with specifications3
SPTA list3
Supplier’s certificate of quality3

3.1.5 Certificates

  • RMRS Certificates as per form 6.5.30 – 1 copy;
  • Manufacturer’s certificates – 1 copy.
Устройство транспортировки вертолета габаритный чертеж разворот в положение нос вертолёта направлен в нос судна
Helicopter handling system overall drawing: rotation into position with the helicopter nose pointed forward towards the vessel bow

4. Additional Requirements

4.1. Regulatory Documents

  • The helicopter handling system complies with the requirements of the “HELIDECK-H” notation, Section 6, Volume 3 of the RMRS Rules for the Classification and Construction of Sea-Going Ships.
  • Regarding manufacture and testing, the helicopter handling system complies with the requirements of the RMRS Rules, the “General Aviation Requirements” OAT GA-90 (State Research Institute of Civil Aviation) taking into account Amendment No. 1, as well as the safety regulations for sea-going ships RD 31.81.01-87 (taking into account Notices No. 1–3).
  • ICAO. Annex 14 to the Convention on International Civil Aviation. Aerodromes. Volume 2. Heliports. ICAO. Doc 9261-AN/903. Heliport Manual.
  • General Aviation Requirements for Helicopter Support Facilities on Ships and Elevated Offshore Platforms, effective as of May 1, 1990 (OAT GA-90), in parts not contradicting ICAO and RS requirements.
  • CAP 437. Standards for offshore helicopter landing areas — Guidance. UK Civil Aviation Authority, 2018.
  • All supervisory mechanisms and devices are supplied with RMRS Certificates as per form 6.5.30 for equipment subject to mandatory certification, as well as a manufacturer’s certificate.

4.2 Permanent Stowage of Removable Components

  • All removable/portable equipment components (control stations, control panels, etc.) must be provided with permanent stowage fixtures, including the mounting arrangements themselves.

4.3 Personnel Training

  • Training must be provided for the shipowner’s personnel (minimum of 5 persons).
  • Training of the Customer’s personnel in the operation and maintenance of the supplied equipment is included in the scope of supply.

4.4 Special requirements

  • Each item from the equipment scope of supply, components, and/or materials shall be codified/marked and itemized individually in the packing lists and installation instructions.
  • All equipment and components are new and in current production at the time of delivery.
  • Tally plates on the equipment, information displays, software/interfaces, etc., shall have inscriptions in Russian, unless otherwise required by international conventions.
  • As a rule, all information plates shall be manufactured from PVC, brass, or stainless steel.
  • PVC plates are permitted for use on electrical switchboards and other equipment where mechanical damage and aggressive environments (low or high temperatures, high humidity, salt mist, oil, fuel, direct sunlight) are excluded.
  • Stainless steel plates are permitted for use on any equipment.
  • All main and complementary supplied equipment is fully painted and does not require additional paint application.
  • The equipment color (taking into account the Customer’s requirements for room colors, the exterior painting scheme, and the color of specific specialized equipment) is subject to approval by the Designer according to the RAL color chart.
  • Outer surfaces of the equipment feature an anti-corrosion coating that ensures normal operation in a C5M zone with very high atmospheric corrosivity (marine conditions) according to ISO 12944-2, consisting of 1 primer layer and three enamel layers.
  • All openings on the equipment are fitted with standard shipping plugs.
  • Electrical equipment is provided with the following safety signs:
  • All cabinets with a voltage above 42 V feature warning safety signs according to OST 31.0031-96:
  • − sign 2.4 “Caution! Electrical voltage” — on the outside of the cabinet doors;
  • − sign 3.2 “Wear protective gloves” — inside the cabinets.
  • On the outside of the cabinet doors with a voltage above 42 V, a plate indicating the voltage rating shall be installed in accordance with OST5R.6083-98.
  • A nomenclature of wear (consumable) parts not covered by the Shipbuilder’s warranty obligations shall be submitted, specifying their quantities and scheduled replacement intervals.

4.5 Metrological Support

  • В случае комплектации поставляемого оборудования средствами измерений выполняются следующие условия:
    • If the supplied equipment includes measuring instruments, the following conditions shall be met:
    • measuring instruments must be listed in the State Register of Measuring Instruments;
    • for measuring instruments not included in the State Register, the Supplier shall ensure the acquisition of a type approval certificate;
    • copies of the type approval certificates shall be provided with the set of measuring instruments;
    • for measuring instruments supplied complete with the equipment, information shall be provided in the required format;
    • measuring instruments shall strictly comply with the requirements of the RS rules;
    • built-in measuring instruments shall be calibrated without disassembly, in which case non-dismantling calibration procedures shall be developed and included in the operation documentation of the technical equipment on which they are installed;
    • names and designations of measured quantities and their units shall be specified in accordance with GOST 8.417.

5. Manufacturer

Izhora Hydrosystems LLC


6. Warranty Period

12 months from the shipment date, unless otherwise specified in the contract.


Contacts

Phone: +7 (812) 339-61-68

Email: contact@i-hydro.tech