Hammar H20 Hydrostatic Release Unit – Small Rafts Model (Automatic Liferaft Release)

Hammar H20 Hydrostatic Release Unit – Small Rafts Model (Automatic Liferaft Release)

Ensure reliable deployment of your liferaft in an emergency with the Hammar H20 Hydrostatic Release Unit designed specifically for small liferafts and recreational craft. This automatic release mechanism activates when a vessel sinks, freeing the liferaft so it can surface and inflate — a critical safety component for boats, fishing vessels, sailing yachts and offshore craft.

⚓ What It Is

A Hydrostatic Release Unit (HRU) like the Hammar H20 is a safety device that connects your liferaft to the vessel. When a vessel sinks, the increasing water pressure automatically triggers the release — freeing the liferaft so it can float to the surface and be available for boarding.

This small-raft model is tailored for recreational craft and smaller liferafts — typically suitable for liferaft capacities from 4 up to 12 persons — and may carry BV and USCG approvals where applicable.

🔧 How It Works

1. Install the Hammar H20 HRU between the deck (or liferaft cradle) and the liferaft’s securing line.

2. During normal use: the liferaft remains fastened to the vessel.

3. If the vessel sinks: rising water pressure (approx. 1.5 – 4 m depth) activates the hydrostatic mechanism.

4. A spring-loaded cutter severs the securing line.

5. The liferaft is released, floats to the surface, and begins inflation via its painter line.

🛡 Key Features

• ✅ Automatic activation: Hydrostatic release triggers at depth without human intervention.

• ⚓ Designed for small liferafts: Ideal for fishing boats, sailing yachts and recreational craft.

• 🧰 No annual servicing: Disposable unit — install new every service cycle.

• 💪 Corrosion resistant: Constructed from glass fibre reinforced nylon for marine durability.

• 📏 Simple installation: Fits between deck mount and liferaft lashings with included rope and weak link.

• 📅 Service life: Typically replaced every 2 years once installed.

📋 Specifications

• Type: Hammar H20 Hydrostatic Release Unit – Small Rafts Model

• Automatic Release Depth: Approx. 1.5 – 4 m

• Weak Link Breaking Strength: ~1.2 ± 0.4 kN

• Service Life: ~24 months from installation

• Suitable For: Small liferafts (4–12 persons) / recreational craft only

• Material: Glass fibre reinforced nylon, stainless steel components

• Maintenance: None required during service life; replace unit after end of life

⚠️ Important Notes

✔ Installation must be done according to manufacturer instructions and local regulations.
✔ Always replace HRUs before they expire — outdated or damaged units may not activate in an emergency.
✔ Check approvals relevant to your vessel and flag state (e.g., USCG, BV, etc.) where required.