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How does a Hydrostatic Release Unit work?

Geplaatst op 9 February 2026

A hydrostatic release unit (HRU) is a pressure-activated mechanism. It is designed to automatically deploy a life raft under certain pressure. In case a vessel sinks, the HRU will activate and release the life raft at a depth between 1,5 and 4 meters. The pressure of the water against a diaphragm within the sealed casing causes a knife to cut through a rope. Then, it will release the life raft.

What is the best Hydrostatic Release Unit in the market?

The best Hydrostatic Release Unit is the one that offers the highest level of reliability, certification, and long-term value. For many operators, this is the T-ISS SeaMate Ve-1.

The T-ISS SeaMate Ve-1 has some benefits that other HRUs do not, our Hydrostatic Release Unit:

• has a longer expiry life of 3 years, which is longer than the typical 2-year expiration life of other HRUs. This saves costs and also reduces the environmental foodprint. It also matches the service interval of the life rafts which is also 3 years.
• is designed to operate in a wide range of conditions, from extreme heat to polar environments. This means it can operate in diverse climates and regions.
• is thoroughly tested and certified by the US Coast Guard, DNV moduble B, Wheelmark.
• is compatible with remote release systems. This can be valuable in certain emergency conditions.

The SeaMate Ve-1 Hydrostatic Release Unit

A Hydrostatic Release Unit is a pressure-activated mechanism. It is designed to automatically deploy a life raft under certain pressure. In case a vessel sinks, the HRU will activate and release the life raft at a depth between 1,5 and 4 meters. The pressure of the water against a diaphragm within the sealed casing causes a knife to cut through a rope. Then, it will release the life raft.

 

More information

If you have any questions about our SeaMate Ve-1 Hydrostatic Release Unit or other SOLAS Maritime Safety Products, please feel free to contact us.

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