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Hydraulic A-Frame Launch and Recovery System (LARS), SWL: 40 kN (Technical Specification)


1. General Data (Operating Conditions)

  • Ambient air temperature: -35°C to +45°C.
  • Long-term storage capability: down to -40°C.
  • The LARS, when secured in the stowed position, maintains integrity and operational readiness under the following conditions:
    • Vessel heel to any side: up to 45°;
    • Vessel trim by bow or stern: up to 15°;
    • Vessel roll amplitude: ±45°;
    • Vessel pitch amplitude: 10°;
    • Ambient air temperature: -40°C to +50°C;
    • Wind speed: up to Beaufort force 12.
  • Operational readiness is guaranteed under the following conditions:
    • Sea water temperature: -2°C to +36°C;
    • Static heel angles up to 20° and trim up to 10°;
    • Design service life: 30 years;
    • Service life until major overhaul: 10 years;
    • Design life to retirement: 2000 hours.

2. Purpose

The Hydraulic A-Frame LARS (Launch and Recovery System) is designed for the launch and recovery of a boat or fast rescue craft with full crew while the vessel is at anchor or drifting in sea states up to sea state 5 inclusive.

Hydraulic A-frame, SWL: 40 kN. Dimensional drawing, front view
Hydraulic A-frame, SWL: 40 kN. Dimensional drawing, front view

About

A-Frame LARS for Rescue Boats: Hydraulic Reliability in Severe Sea States

Picture a naval or research vessel in the North Atlantic. On board is a crew of 12, a storm warning is active, wind speeds reach Beaufort force 12, and the only evacuation route is the rescue boat. It is during these critical moments that the most stringent requirements are placed on the launch and recovery system (LARS). If the system fails, everything is compromised: human lives, the vessel, and the mission.

The 40 kN A-Frame LARS designed by Izhora Hydrosystems is engineered as a critical survival tool, capable of operating under conditions where most standard systems fail.

When the Sea Forgives No Mistakes

The marine environment dictates demanding parameters. Vessel heel up to 45°, trim up to 15°, roll amplitude of ±45°, and pitch amplitude of 10°. Ambient temperatures ranging from −40°C to +50°C. Even under these extreme conditions, the system must maintain operational readiness to ensure the rapid and safe launch of a rescue boat carrying up to 12 persons with a total weight of up to 3.37 tonnes.

The A-Frame LARS from Izhora Hydrosystems is purpose-built for these operational scenarios. It delivers launch and recovery speeds up to 48 m/min, operating reliably regardless of heavy seas or sub-zero temperatures.

Technical Design: Simplicity, Power, and Endurance

The core structure consists of a steel frame with an A-frame boom operated by hydraulic cylinders. The system utilizes a single-point suspension interface that couples with the fast-release hook of the rescue boat. Control is managed via two stations: a fixed main control panel and a portable electric remote control unit connected by cable. A dedicated integrated enclosure is provided for secure storage of the portable remote unit.

Key LARS Specifications:

SWL: Up to 40 kN (~4 t)
Outreach: 3.2 m
Lifting height: Up to 4 m
Speed: Up to 48 m/min for both hoisting and lowering
Power supply: 380 V / 50 Hz / 3 phase
Power consumption: Up to 55 kW
Ingress protection rating: IP56
Weight: ~4 t (excluding hydraulic power pack and ladder)

Furthermore, a battery charging system for the rescue boat is integrated, featuring a signal output to the vessel's main alarm system to ensure autonomous readiness and seamless vessel integration.

High-Endurance Engineering

The system design accounts for harsh corrosive environments and dynamic loads during boat landing. The A-Frame LARS features a shock-absorption system to minimize mechanical overloads. All components are fully protected against seawater, vibration, and extreme temperatures. Self-leveling floodlights provide illumination of the working areas during night operations.

Furthermore, a battery charging system for the rescue boat is integrated, featuring a signal output to the vessel's main alarm system to ensure autonomous readiness and seamless vessel integration.

Guaranteed Reliability: From Documentation to Spare Parts

Each system is supplied with a comprehensive technical documentation package, including outline drawings, installation diagrams, and a spare parts catalogue. The warranty covers 5 years of operation or 10 years of storage. The design life to retirement is 2000 operating hours, the service life until major overhaul is 1000 operating hours, and the design service life is 30 years.

The scope of supply includes a comprehensive spare parts, tools, and accessories (STCW/SPTA) kit for routine maintenance, emergency repairs, and overhauls at the operation site. The system is developed in compliance with GOST and OST standards, as well as the European Marine Equipment Directive (MED) 2014/90/EU (formerly 96/98/EC).

A Solutions Package for the Fleet of Tomorrow

The A-Frame LARS by Izhora Hydrosystems represents a strategic asset for naval fleets, research expeditions, and commercial vessels. Engineered and manufactured in Russia, the system is fully certified by the Russian Maritime Register of Shipping (RS) and serves as a direct, reliable replacement for foreign equivalents under import substitution requirements.

Most importantly, this equipment is engineered for life-saving applications, where absolute operational reliability is mandatory. The system delivers this reliability without compromise.

3. Scope of Supply

3.1. A-Frame LARS for Rescue Boat, 40 kN, 48 m/min

3.1.1 System Components

ComponentQuantity
Wire rope with suspension interface1
Ladder1
Piping installation1
Control cable installation1
Sheave block set1
Boom assembly1
Subframe1
Frame1
Hydraulic cylinders1
Shock absorber1
Keel blocks1
Tie rods1
Winch1
Hydraulic power pack with control cabinet1
Spare parts, tools, and accessories (SPTA) kit1
Hydraulic A-Frame LARS, SWL: 40 kN. Outline Drawing, Top View
Hydraulic A-Frame LARS, SWL: 40 kN. Outline Drawing, Top View

3.1.2 Main Technical Parameters

ComponentQuantity
Wire rope with suspension interface1
Ladder1
Piping installation1
Control cable installation1
Sheave block set1
Boom assembly1
Subframe1
Frame1
Hydraulic cylinders1
Shock absorber1
Keel blocks1
Tie rods1
Winch1
Hydraulic power pack with control cabinet1
Spare parts, tools, and accessories (SPTA) kit1

Hydraulic A-Frame LARS, SWL: 40 kN. Outline Drawing, Top View

3.1.2. Main Technical Parameters

ParameterValue
Boat launching weight3.37 t
Safe Working Load (SWL)40 kN
Boom tip outreach3.2 m
Max. boat lifting height4 m
Trim / heel10° / 20°
LoweringHydraulic, 0–48 m/min
Emergency loweringIn accordance with SOLAS
HoistingHydraulic, 0–48 m/min
Emergency hoistingManual handwheel
Emergency pivotingHand pump
Power supply380 V / 50 Hz / 3 phase
Enclosure / Protection typeIP56 TENV
Insulation classF
Power consumption≤ 55 kW
LARS weight (excl. HPU and ladder)≈ 4 t
Hydraulic Power Pack (HPU) weight700 kg
Ladder weight120 kg
Control systemFixed + portable remote control panel

3.1.3 Spare Parts, Tools, and Accessories (SPTA) Kit

Manufacturer’s standard kit for 1-year operation.

3.1.4 . Documentation

DocumentQuantity
Product passport / certificate1
Installation, commissioning, and adjustment instructions1
Operating manual1
Onboard test program and procedure1
Factory acceptance test (FAT) report1
SPTA list1

3.1.5 . Certificates

RS Certificate (Form 6.5.30) — 1 pc.


4. Additional Requirements

LARS Description

  • The RBTS25.23.00.000.000 series LARS is engineered for long-term operation in harsh marine environments at sub-zero temperatures.
  • Fully compliant with IMO/SOLAS, LSA Code, and EU Directive 2014/90/EU (MED).
  • Features an integrated shock-absorption system, a built-in hydraulic power pack (HPU), and a battery charging system for the rescue boat.

Hydraulic Power Pack (HPU) Description

  • Supplied complete with an integrated deck-mounted electrical control cabinet.
  • Hydraulic connections and power supply cables are within the shipyard’s scope of supply.

Ergonomics and Technical Aesthetics

Complies with OST 5.3055-74, GOST 20.39.108-85, and GOST 21752-76. Inspection is carried out in accordance with OTT 1.2.2-86.

Operation, Storage, Maintainability, and Repair

  • Maintenance intervals, repair procedures, and personnel qualification requirements are defined.
  • The documentation specifies storage periods and preservation methods (up to 5 years).
  • The scope of supply includes individual, onboard, and repair SPTA kits.
  • Ensures safe maintenance, standardization, and interchangeability of components.
  • Metrological traceability complies with GOST RV and RMG 29-99.
  • Corrosion-resistant materials with high-grade coating systems are applied throughout.

Cataloging

All system components are cataloged within the federal supply catalog of the Armed Forces of the Russian Federation.

Preservation, Packaging, and Marking

  • Maintains integrity and specification properties without re-preservation for up to 5 years.
  • Packaging ensures safe transportation by all modes of transport.

Special Requirements

  • RS certification and approval by the State Technical Supervision of the Ministry of Defense of the Russian Federation (Gostekhnadzor MORF) are mandatory.

Documentation Deliverables

  • Drawings, diagrams, operating manuals, and SPTA catalogs.
  • All documentation must be submitted to the customer prior to contract signing.

Warranty Liabilities

  • Storage life: 10 years.
  • Operational life: 5 years from the date of signing the acceptance certificate.
  • Manufacturer’s liability remains valid within the limits of the design life to retirement.

5. Manufacturer

Izhora Hydrosystems LLC


6. Warranty Period

12 months from the date of delivery, unless otherwise specified in the contract terms.



Contacts

  • Phone: +7 (812) 339-61-68
  • Email: contact@i-hydro.tech