Subsea Releases

• DEPLOYED & SUPPORTED WORLDWIDE • ANY LOAD • ANY DEPTH • ALL APPLICATIONS • RUGGED • RELIABLE • TIME TESTED

GENERAL PRODUCT DESCRIPTION

InterOcean Acoustic Release systems have been successfully used for decades throughout the oceans of the world to assist scientists, engineers, offshore drilling companies, the military, Coast Guard, telephone companies, and a host of others for accomplishing important underwater tasks.
The Acoustic Releases provide a means by which equipment can be placed in the shallow coastal waters of the world, as well as the deepest trenches of the oceans, then be reliably recovered upon command.

1090ED Releases used with ASL Ice Profiling Sonar. Photo courtesy of ASL Environmental Science
1090ED Releases used with ASL Ice Profiling Sonar. Photo courtesy of ASL Environmental Science

The versatility of the InterOcean equipment lends itself to a variety of uses. The smaller Acoustic Releases will recover payloads such as current meters and other oceanographic instruments. The same equipment can be used to provide multiple command functions to operate complex underwater systems by remote control.
The larger Release Hooks and Rig Anchor Releases are relied upon in offshore industries for lifting, placing, and disengaging heavy payloads, as well as providing quick, selective disconnect of rig and vessel moorings. They provide both an added measure of safety and notable cost benefit. When required, Releases may be rated by Lloyd’s ABS or DNV for critical shipboard operations. InterOcean’s Releases have been field proven to be rugged, reliable and cost effective. Each Acoustic Release utilizes the same InterOcean Acoustic Command Unit, providing failsafe actuation and communication with the Release mechanism. InterOcean’s family of remote underwater Releases are available for the full range of load levels, water depths, power sources, and application requirements.

All InterOcean Releases are designed and manufactured at our facility in San Diego, and are supported worldwide. Our application engineering staff is always available to discuss and recommend ways to solve your underwater release, positioning, navigation systems, or command and control requirements. Please phone, or contact us through our web site. InterOcean systems has a history of proven performance, a dedication to product reliability and customer service to assure your confidence in any extreme environment.
InterOcean’s Releases are designed and manufactured at our San Diego facility.

SUBSEA RELEASE Product Family

FEATURING UNDERWATER RELEASE FOR PAYLOADS OF A HUNDRED TO A FEW MILLION POUNDS

 

(Clock-wise from top left) 1090E Acoustic Release with Mooring Buoy and S4® Oceanographic Instrument, 1090E Acoustic Release with Command Unit, Rig Anchor Release being readied for deployment and, 5000E Construction Release Hook.)
(Clock-wise from top left) 1090E Acoustic Release with Mooring Buoy and S4® Oceanographic Instrument, 1090E Acoustic Release with Command Unit, Rig Anchor Release being readied for deployment and, 5000E Construction Release Hook.)

 

Release Comparison Chart

 

 

Continental Shelf, Deep Water, Heavy Duty
Continental Shelf, Deep Water, Heavy Duty

 

Shallow Water AR Model 111

The Model 111 Acoustic Release is a compact, easy to handle release device designed for coastal applications with light payloads. The Shallow Water Release’s small size, light weight, and low power consumption contribute to it’s being the most cost effective way to recover coastal moorings.
Upon receipt and verification of the secure acoustic release code from the surface Command Unit, the Model 111 actuator allows the release lever to rotate, thus freeing the anchor. The Model 111 Release may be fitted with the InterOcean Dual Release Bracket, or Tag Line Canister, and comes standard with external load member and shackle points for verstile mounting and mooring options.

Dimensions: 10 cm Dia x 84 cm L (4” Dia x 33”L)
Ultimate Load: 200 kg (440 lbs)
Air Weight: 4.5 kg (10 lbs)
Release Load: 100 kg (220 lbs)
Water Weight: 0.5 kg (1 lb)
Max. Depth: 300 m

Transponding AR Model 1090E

The 1090E Transponding Acoustic Release is a compact, microprocessor controlled acoustic release system; deployed worldwide and evolved over 20 years with high reliability. Small and compact, yet ruggedly constructed from cast aluminum, the 1090E offers a secure acoustic link for marking, locating, and recovering underwater equipment and payloads for instrument moorings and offshore applications as deep as 1,500 meters. Each 1090E is individually coded and incorporates a highly secure sequential tone-coding technique with transponding reply functions for release confirmation. Extended-life batteries and dual release frame are available for critical applications requiring redundancy.

Dimensions: 18 cm Dia x 33 cm L (7” Dia x 13”L)
Ultimate Load: 4,600 kg (10,000 lbs)
Air Weight: 11.5 kg (25 lbs)
Release Load: 3,000 kg (6,600 lbs)
Water Weight: 7 kg (15 lbs)
Max Depth: 1,500 m

Transponding AR Model 1090ED

The 1090ED Transponding Acoustic Release has similar operating capabilities and characteristics to the 1090E, but is designed for deeper applications with full ocean depth capability. Like the 1090E, it is ruggedly constructed of aluminum alloy, small and easy to handle. The 1090ED incorporates transponder and pinger capability and may be equipped with a Tilt Sensor and extended-life batteries. The InterOcean Tandem Release Mounting Bracket, and/or Tag-Line Canister are also available as standard options. An especially unique feature is the ability to separate the acoustic receiver/transponder section and release hook mechanism as may be required on subsea frames, landers, or ROV’s for optimal design configuration.

Dimensions: 18 cm Dia x 66 cm L (7” Dia x 26”L)
Ultimate Load: 4,600 kg (10,000 lbs)
Air Weight: 17 kg (38 lbs)
Release Load: 3,000 kg (6,600 lbs)
Water Weight: 9 kg (20 lbs)
Max. Depth: 8,000 m

Note: Optional configurations are available allowing relay contact closure for control or activation of external equipment. Ref Model 1090ES

Motor Driven Release Model MR 5000B

The MR5000B Motor Driven Release provides a reliable, secure, mechanical release link permitting the recovery of instrument packages or other underwater payloads. The Model MR5000B is the motor-driven release-hook mechanism incorporated with the 1090ED and –ES Acoustic Releases. The MR5000B utilizes a 6-12 volt DC motor in a pressure compensated, oil-filled chamber. The motor rotates a “D” shaft which, upon command, permits the hook to fall free and release the mooring anchor or payload. The MR5000B design allows release under no load, or up to half of it’s full rated tensile load of 4,550 kilograms. Optional versions of this release are available for heavier loads, up to 2,300 kilograms. All are ruggedly constructed, highly reliable and will operate to full ocean depths.

Dimensions: 15 cm Dia x 36 cm L (6” Dia x 14”L)
Ultimate Load: 4,550 kg (10,000 lbs)
Air Weight: 5.5 kg (12 lbs)
Release Load: 2,300 kg (5,000 lbs)
Water Weight: 2 kg (4 lbs)
Max. Depth: 8,000 m

Acoustic Valve Operator Model 1090J

The 1090J System provides a reliable and secure actuation link to a valve for opening and closing pressure flow. Widespread underwater applications include inflating air bags, operating hydraulic systems, and opening or closing vents, mechanical levers, pipes, or valves. The 1090J Acoustic Valve Operator incorporates all of the unique and secure acoustic activation design features of the 1090 family. A compact and microprocessor-controlled system, the 1090J uses low-power circuitry and incorporates secure sequential tone-coding technique to eliminate problems of ambient background noise. Reply functions are included for confirmation of operation. At left, the 1090J system is set to actuate a compressed air tank valve to inflate an underwater lift bag.

Dimensions: 18 cm Dia x 56 cm L (7” Dia x 22”L)
Valve Pressure: 34,500 kPa (5,000 psi)
Air Weight: 15 kg (33 lbs)
Power Supply: Internal Batteries
Water Weight: 8 kg (18 lbs)
Max. Depth: 1,000 m

Acoustic Command Control Unit Model 1100E

The Model 1100E Deck Unit is a portable, battery operated, Acoustic Command
Transmitter, Interrogator and Receiver designed to send a full set of uniquely
coded underwater acoustic commands to interrogate, control, and/or reset
InterOcean Acoustic Releases. In the transpond mode it activates the Acoustic
Release Transponder, receives the reply pulse, and measures the time delay
which it displays as a range in meters. Individual codes for every function of
each unique device are keyboard selected and may be saved in memory. The
Command Unit contains a programmable code generator, a high-powered audio
amplifier, and regulated power supply. The high-gain receiver includes manual
control capability and visual indication of signal strength, as well as a digital
range indicator. The Model 1100E is enclosed in a splash-proof plastic high-
strength housing with sealed multi-function keyboard. Battery charger, audio
headphones, and command transducer on 30 meters of cable are included.

Dimensions: 18 H x 46 W x 31cm L (7”H x 18”W x 12”L)
Range: 0 – 10,000 m, +/- 3m
Weight: 12 Kg (26.5 lbs)
Note: Optional configurations are available allowing directional information.
Ref Model 1100ES

Model 1095 Transponding Acoustic Release Anchor Pendant Recovery System

The Model 1095 is a rugged, heavy duty, high-load acoustic release which provides a reliable and secure method for the deployment and relocation/recovery of underwater payloads. The 1095 Acoustic Release is particularly well suited as the release mechanism in large vessel or drill rig Anchor Pendant Recovery applications. This remote and fully reusable system assists in the retrieval and prevention of lost anchors, relocates disconnected anchors, and eases shipboard deployment/recovery of large anchors. Reduced anchor recovery effort and quicker turn-around time together with associated safety features justify the Model 1095 as an extremely cost effective tool. The Model 1095 Anchor Pendant Recovery System includes the Model 1095 Acoustic Release, Flotation Collar, and operates with either the 1100E or 1100ES Acoustic Command Unit.

Dimensions: 21cm Dia x 112 cm L (8”Dia x 44”L)
Ultimate Load: 11,350 kg  (25,000 lbs)
Air Weight: 55 kg (120 lbs) Release Load: 4,550 kg (10,000 lbs)
Water Weight: 38 kg (85 lbs) Max. Depth: 2,500 m or 8,000 m

Heavy Duty Release Hook Model 5000D

The Model 5000D is a remotely actuated (hard-wired or acoustic linked) release designed for the demanding applications of offshore construction, installation, and payload release. The Model 5000D is rated to handle safe working loads of 100,000 pounds, but is dynamically balanced allowing it to be released under zero-load. It is field proven to be rugged, safe, reliable, and very versatile. Applications include marine construction, pipeline or subsea module installation, underwater salvage, submarine cable laying, and others. The Release Hook requires 24v DC power and will operate to depths in excess of 2,000 meters. After receiving either acoustic command or hardwire signal, the unit’s motor driven actuator rotates a “D” shaped cam allowing the release arm to swing free, thus ‘dropping’ or placing the load. The Release Hook is then re-engaged for repeated use. Optional ROV release and rearm functions are available.

Dimensions: 36 cm Dia x 89 cm L (14” Dia x 35”L)
Ultimate Load: 68,000 kg  (150,000 lbs)
Air Weight: 118 kg (260 lbs)
Release Load: 45,500 kg (100,000 lbs)
Water Weight: 100 kg (220 lbs)
Max. Depth: 2,000 m

Heavy Duty Release Model 5000E

The Model 5000E Heavy Duty Underwater Release, like the 5000D, is a ruggedly built, high-load release unit constructed of high-strength steel, designed for the hostile offshore construction environment. It is remotely
actuated using either secure coded underwater acoustics or hardwire control signals, with manual backup operation by ROV. The 5000E’s ultimate load of 182,000 kilograms includes many design safety features and may be rated by Lloyd’s ABS or DNV for critical shipboard operations. The Model 5000E is ideally suited for heavy load releases, undersea module or pipeline placements, mooring disconnects, and many other offshore installations. It reduces or eliminates the need for manned intervention and is proven to be a very costeffective tool for marine construction.

Size: 38cm L x 64cm W x 130cm (15”L x 25”W x 51”H)
Ultimate Load: 182,000 kg (400,000 lbs)
Air Weight: 360 kg (800 lbs)
Release Load: 45,000 kg (100,000 lbs)
Water Weight: 295 kg (650 lbs)
Max. Depth: 2,000 m

Rig Anchor Release RAR Model 6500

The Model 6500 Rig Anchor Release (RAR) is a remote, selective, quick disconnect device designed for release of mooring lines on drill rigs, FPSO and MODU vessels, semi-submersibles, and other moored offshore platforms. By design, the Rig Anchor Release is used to abandon a site quickly, and allowing return to the site, without removal or re-setting the anchors and mooring pattern. The RAR is primarily used as a safety device to allow rapid rig movement during blowout, collision avoidance, weather hazard (ice, typhoon, etc) or other offshore emergency. Reduced downtime translates to considerable economic benefit, while maintaining a preset anchor spread assures increased safety and security for nearby sub-sea infrastructure. The Model 6500 RAR may be installed at any point in the mooring line, includes many redundant features, has a proven track record, and may be independently certified if required.

Dimensions: 61 cm Dia x 229 cm L (24”Dia x 90”L)
Ultimate Load: 546,000 kg  (1,200,000 lbs)
Air Weight: 1780 kg (3,925 lbs)
Release Load: 182,000 kg  (400,000 lbs)
Water Weight: 1352 kg (2,980 lbs)
Max. Depth: 2,000 m

Rig Anchor Release RAR Model 6600

The RAR 6600 is a higher load-capacity, selectively-controlled, rapid release system for large offshore moorings. Used for mooring large offshore structures such as drilling rigs, semi-submersibles, FPSO and MODU platforms, the Model 6600 RAR offers the same benefits of rapid disconnect and return to a pre-set anchor layout, without the time-consuming and difficult task of anchor recovery and re-deployment. Faster platform response times and mobility offered by the RAR allow the operator additional time to monitor situational developments or changes that may ultimately preclude the need for release altogether, and thereby avoid disruption of normal rig activities as a result. Economic and safety benefits include reduced platform downtime and avoiding anchor recovery and re-setting operations. The Model 6600 RAR may be
installed at any point in the mooring line, and requires minimal maintenance. The Model 6600 also includes redundancy, has a proven track record and may be independently certified if required.

Dimensions: 76 cm Dia x 325 cm L (30” Dia x 128”L)
Ultimate Load: 1,136,000 kg (2,500,000 lbs)
Air Weight: 4100 kg (9,000 lbs)
Release Load: 340,000 kg (750,000 lbs)
Water Weight: 3016 kg (6,650 lbs)
Max. Depth: 2,000 m

RAR Control Unit Model 1165

The Model 1165 Command Unit is used to transmit secure coded acoustic signals from onboard the drilling rig, support vessel, or helicopter to the Model 6500 or 6600 Rig Anchor Release units underwater. The Model
1165 RAR Command Unit permits the user to perform remote diagnostics, check the status of each individual RAR anchor release unit, and to securely and selectively activate individual RAR’s, thereby selectively disengaging each mooring line from its respective anchor. The Model 1165 Command Unit is a portable device enclosed within a waterproof case and contains internal rechargeable batteries for remote operations. The Model 1165 includes the acoustic transducer on 100 meter cable tether, provides inherent security against false or unintended release activation, and is designed to overcome acoustic distortion and ambient noise.

Size: 28 cm L x 43 cm W x 18 cm H (11”L x 17”W x 7”H)
Range: 0 – 10,000m +/- 3m
Weight: 18 kg (40 lbs)