During vessel towing operations, emergencies such as loss of control over the towed object or encountering severe sea conditions may occur. Failure to promptly release the towline in such situations can subject the tug to excessive tension, potentially leading to loss of maneuverability, equipment damage, or even vessel capsizing. Therefore, towing winches must be equipped with an emergency release system to rapidly pay out the towline during critical situations, preventing accidents and ensuring the safety of all parties involved.

Composition of the Emergency Release System:

• The emergency release system for towing winches typically comprises:

• Power Unit:  Controls drum rotation for retrieving/paying out towlines

• Control System: Includes hydraulic pump station, hydraulic brake system, hydraulic clutch sysyem, accumulator, etc.

(Note: Accumulators are usually installed on towing winch body, and can also be installed on hydraulic pump stations as needed)

Performance requirements for emergency release

①　The winch shall be designed to allow drum release in an emergency when hauling or rendering, or whenthe drum brake is applied. A maximum delay of 10 s from the moment the release is actuated to the drum beingdisengaged is acceptable.

②　Emergency means of releasing the drums shall be provided in the wheelhouse, if agreed between themanufacturer and purchaser.

③　The emergency release shall be effected by the actuation of one identical control in all situations, even if theusual power sources fail. It shall always be possible to carry out the emergency release, even during a black-out.

④　After an emergency release, the drum brakes shall again function normally at once. The winch motorshall not re-engage automatically after an emergency release.

⑤　Control handles, buttons, etc. for emergency release shall be protected against unintentional operation.

How to achieve the emergency release function of the towing winch?

Design Standard