Exam Question
With respect to gravity lifeboat davits: describe and state the purpose of:
(a) Centrifugal brakes (5)
(b) Deadman's handle (5)
(c) Limit switches on Davits (5)
(d) Onload release gear (5)
Class 4 (4th Engineer)
SSEP
📅 Jun 2025
Reference Answer
### (a) Centrifugal Brakes
**Purpose:**
The primary purpose of the centrifugal brake is to govern the speed of the lifeboat's descent during lowering by gravity, ensuring it remains within safe, regulatory limits. As per SOLAS/LSA Code, this speed must not exceed 36 m/min (0.6 m/s). This device is a critical safety feature as it operates passively, without any external power source, guaranteeing a controlled launch even during a complete power failure (blackout).
**Construction and Operation:**
**Purpose:**
The primary purpose of the centrifugal brake is to govern the speed of the lifeboat's descent during lowering by gravity, ensuring it remains within safe, regulatory limits. As per SOLAS/LSA Code, this speed must not exceed 36 m/min (0.6 m/s). This device is a critical safety feature as it operates passively, without any external power source, guaranteeing a controlled launch even during a complete power failure (blackout).
**Construction and Operation:**
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