Mechanical support brackets
Together, the gate valve, transducer dock and hull unit form a tall and heavy construction. Due to its height and weight, this construction must be secured to the bulkhead by means of mechanical support brackets. The dimensions and strength of the support brackets must be adequate to prevent vortex induced vibrations. This is an invariable requirement to ensure the safety of the SU90 system and the vessel.
Image
The forces to which the gate valve, transducer dock and hull unit are exposed depends on the physical size of the complete installation, where it is located, and the vessel's behaviour in rough sea.
Note
It is very important that the entire installation is sufficiently supported, as the forces it is exposed to may affect both the physical installation and the vessel's safety.
The mechanical support brackets must be designed and manufactured by the installation shipyard to fit the complete installation in the sonar room. We recommend that support brackets are placed pointing at minimum three directions with approximately 120 degrees between them. All calculations made to support the design must meet the applicable safety requirements, and apply to the physical properties of the complete installation.
Note
The final design and the installation must be approved by the classification society. Without a proper mechanical support for the hull unit gantry, the guarantee will be void!