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Technical overview and operational capabilities of the umbilical winch

1.Introduction

This document provides a specification of the technical characteristics and functional capabilities of the cable winch designed for use on unrestricted navigation vessels. The cable winch is a critical component for supporting underwater operations and communications.

2. Purpose and Main Functions

The cable winch is designed to perform the following functions:

  • Generating pull force to retrieve the cable with the connected load
  • Storing the cable spooled onto the drum
  • Paying out and hauling in the cable
  • Transmission of electrical power and data signals between the vessel and the underwater object

3. Technical Characteristics

3.1. Dimensions and Weight

  • Length: max. 1,500 mm
  • Width: max. 2,000 mm
  • Height: max. 1,500 mm
  • Weight without cable: max. 500 kg
  • Maximum permissible weight with cable: min. 1,500 kg

3.2. Operational Performance

  • Drum capacity: 1,210 ± 10 m (for 32 mm diameter cable)
  • Pull force: min. 3 kN
  • Maximum pay-out/haul-in speed: min. 1 m/s
  • Power consumption: max. 7 kW

3.3. Environmental Operating Conditions

  • Ambient temperature range: -30°C to +40°C
  • Relative humidity: up to 98% at +35°C
  • Static heel and trim limits: min. 5°
  • Wind speed tolerance: up to 10 m/s (operational), up to 35 m/s (survival load)

4.Design and Structural Features

4.1. Winch Frame

  • Material: structural steel approved for marine lifting appliances
  • Equipped with removable protective guards
  • Mounting interfaces rated for loads according to ND No. 2-030101-008

4.2. Electric Drive System

  • Smooth start-up and variable speed control
  • Reversible operation
  • Automatic overload braking system
  • Maximum braking torque: min. 3.2 kNm

4.3. Electrical System

  • Power supply: 400 V, 50 Hz, 3-phase
  • Residual current protective devices (RCD) installed
  • Portable control pendant with extra-low safety voltage
  • Operating hours counter

4.4. Level Wind System

  • Mechanical drive from the winch drum
  • Adjustable transmission ratio
  • Disengaging clutch for manual adjustment

5. Reliability and Warranties

  • Design life: min. 10 years
  • Service life before overhaul: min. 5 years
  • Continuous operation capacity: min. 120 hours without scheduled maintenance
  • Warranty period: min. 24 month

6. Regulatory Compliance

The cable winch complies with the requirements of the following regulations:

  • ND No. 2-020101-174 “Rules for the Classification and Construction of Sea-Going Ships. Part XI. Electrical Equipment”
  • ND No. 2-020201-023 “Rules for the Classification and Construction of Unmanned Submersibles”
  • ND No. 2-030101-008 “Guidelines for the Development of Cargo Securing Manuals”

7.  Conclusion

The cable winch is a complex piece of equipment engineered for operations in harsh marine environments. It ensures reliable storage, paying out, and hauling in of the cable, as well as the transmission of electrical power and data signals between the vessel and underwater objects. The cable winch complies with stringent marine classification society standards and features high reliability and durability.