Failure of an X-90 ROV lars system
Whilst deploying an ROV using a Tekmar X-90 LARS launching system, the main umbilical sheave and docking assembly dropped approximately 0.5m leaving it supported only by the hydraulic roll control rams. Immediate investigation showed that the two cheek support plates, which support the umbilical sheave and docking assembly, had failed.
The manufacturer has been notified of the failure. Cause of the failure is unknown at present but provisional visual inspection indicates plate fatigue or weld failure. A full investigation is now underway, which will include metallurgical examination.
Safety Event
Published: 1 September 1998
Download: 
IMCA SF 04/98
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