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(continued)


(b) Steel motor-propelled lifeboats without radio cabin or searchlight (Class 1). (1) The engine shall be a reliable marine type and shall be in accordance with paragraph (a)(5)(i) of this section. If a starting battery is supplied, the engine shall be fitted with a marine type generator or alternator insulated as required by AIEE rules for marine service capable of charging the starting batteries. The battery box shall be in accordance with paragraph (a)(5) of this section.

(c) Steel motor-propelled lifeboats without radio cabin but with searchlight (Class 2). (1) The engine shall be of a reliable marine type and shall be in accordance with paragraph (a)(5)(i) of this section. The lifeboat shall be equipped with a searchlight constructed in accordance with subpart 161.006 of this subchapter Q (Specifications). The engine shall be fitted with a marine type generator or alternator insulated as required by AIEE rules for marine service capable of charging the batteries used for the searchlight as well as the starting batteries, if fitted. The battery box shall be in accordance with paragraph (a)(5) of this section.

(d) Steel motor-propelled lifeboats with radio cabin and searchlight (Class 3). (1) The engine shall be a reliable, marine type and shall be in accordance with paragraph (a)(5)(i) of this section. The engine shall be fitted with a marine type generator or alternator insulated as required by AIEE rules for marine service, capable of charging the batteries used for the radio and searchlight as well as the starting battery, if fitted.

(2) The radio and source of power for the radio and the searchlight shall be housed and protected from the elements by a suitable radio cabin. The entire installation shall comply with the requirements of the Federal Communications Commission, Rules Governing Stations on Shipboard in the Maritime Services. The radio cabin shall be of a size to contain the radio and source of power for the radio and searchlight, and the operator of the equipment. The top and sides of the radio cabin shall be watertight with the exception of the door which need not be watertight but shall be at least weathertight. The installation of the radio cabin shall take into consideration the concentration of weight in this area.

(3) The searchlight shall be of an approved type constructed in accordance with specification Subpart 161.006 of this subchapter and shall be securely mounted on top of the radio cabin.

(4) The batteries shall be installed in a box securely fastened inside the radio cabin. The battery box shall be in accordance with paragraph (a)(5) of this section.

[CGFR 65–9, 30 FR 11467, Sept. 8, 1965, as amended by CGD 72–133R, 37 FR 17039, Aug. 24, 1972; CGD 73–116R, 39 FR 12747, Apr. 8, 1974]

§ 160.035-6 Construction of aluminum oar-, hand-, and motor-propelled lifeboats.
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(a) General. Aluminum lifeboats shall comply with the general requirements for the construction and arrangement of steel lifeboats unless otherwise specified.


Table 160.035-6_Aluminum Lifeboats
------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------
Bar keel, Gunwales \1\ Shell plating (Brown and Sharpe gage) \2\
stem and ------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------
Length of sternpost Independent air tanks Built-in-air tanks
boat not (inches) Flanged flat ---------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------
over -------------- Angle bar bar (inches) 5052-H32 6061-T6 5052-H32 6061-T6
(feet) (inches) 5086- 5086-H112/6061----------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------
5086-H112/ H112/6061-T6 T6 Inner Inner
6061-T6 Side Bottom Side Bottom Side Bottom shell Bulkheads Side Bottom shell Bulkheads
------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------
12.0 2\3/4\x\3/4\ 2\1/4\x2x\5/16\ 4x\5/16\ 14 14 14 14 14 14 14 14 14 14 15 15
14.0 2\3/4\x\3/4\ 2\1/4\x2x\5/16\ 4x\5/16\ 14 14 14 14 14 14 14 14 14 14 15 15
16.0 2\3/4\x\3/4\ 2\1/2\x2\1/ 4\1/2\x\5/16\ 14 14 14 14 14 14 14 14 14 14 15 15
4\x\5/16\
18.0 3x\3/4\ 2\1/2\x2\1/ 4\1/2\x\5/16\ 14 14 14 14 14 14 14 14 14 14 15 15
4\x\5/16\
20.0 3x1 2\3/4\x2\1/ 5x\5/16\ 13 13 13 13 13 13 14 14 13 13 14 14
2\x\5/16\
22.0 3x1 2\3/4\x2\1/ 5x\5/16\ 12 12 12 12 13 12 14 14 13 13 14 14
2\x\5/16\
24.0 3\1/4\x1 2\3/4\x2\1/ 5x\3/8\ 11 11 11 11 11 11 13 13 12 12 14 14
2\x\3/8\
26.0 3\1/2\x1 2\3/4\x2\1/ 5x\3/8\ 10 9 11 10 11 10 12 12 11 11 13 13
2\x\3/8\
28.0 3\3/4\x1 2\3/4\x2\1/ 5x\3/8\ 9 8 10 9 10 9 12 12 11 10 13 13
2\x\3/8\
30.0 4x1 3x2\3/4\x\3/8\ 5\1/2\x\3/8\ 9 8 9 8 9 8 11 11 10 9 12 12
32.0 4x1 3x2\3/4\x\3/8\ 5\1/2\x\3/8\ 8 7 9 8 9 8 11 11 10 9 12 12
34.0 4x1 3x2\3/4\x\3/8\ 5\1/2\x\3/8\ 8 7 8 7 8 7 10 10 9 8 11 11
36.0 4x1 3x2\3/4\x\3/8\ 5\1/2\x\3/8\ 7 6 8 7 8 7 10 10 9 8 11 11
------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------
\1\ Extruded shapes having substantially the scantlings of the angle bar gunwale are permitted. Where extruded shapes are used, a nosing as per § 160.035-3(j) is not required provided the
extruded shape has at its heel a generously rounded curve.
\2\ Brown and Sharpe gage decimal values: 15 gage equals 0.05707, 14 gage equals 0.06408; 13 gage equals 0.07196; 12 gage equals 0.08081; 11 gage equals 0.09074, 10 gage equals 0.1019; 9 gage
equals 0.1144; 8 gage equals 0.1285; 7 gage equals 0.1443, and 6 gage equals 0.1620.


(b) Materials. (1) Plating for shell, air tanks, etc., shall be as shown in Table 160.035–6.

(c) Welding. (1) Welding may be substituted for riveting in the following locations: Hoist plate to keel, disengaging gear grace plate to stem and sternpost, rudder attachment fitting to the sternpost, and the propeller shaft stern tube to the sternpost. When using 6061–T6 aluminum, the welded area is to be heat-treated and checked by X-ray to assure a satisfactory weld. When using 5086–H 112 aluminum, the welded area is to be checked by a nondestructive test method such as X-ray, ultrasonic waves or fluorescent materials, to assure a satisfactory weld. Other methods of checking aluminum welds will be given separate consideration. The welding shall be performed by a welder qualified by the U.S. Coast Guard, American Bureau of Shipping, or U.S. Navy Department, and only suitable electrodes shall be used. Details of the joints shall be indicated on the construction drawings submitted for approval.

(d) Dissimilar metals. (1) Where in the construction of aluminum lifeboats the use of dissimilar metals are employed such as, the installation of the mechanical disengaging gear, hand propelling gear, or engine, suitable insulation between the aluminum and these metals shall be used. Porous or absorbent materials shall not be used as insulating materials. Only non-porous materials such as plastics, rubber or neoprene base compounds, or micarta shall be used. Other suitable material will be given separate consideration. Fasteners used in joining dissimilar metals together shall be of the type that will minimize corrosion.

[CGFR 65–9, 30 FR 11467, Sept. 8, 1965, as amended by CGD 95–028, 62 FR 51213, Sept. 30, 1997]

§ 160.035-8 Construction of fibrous glass reinforced plastic (F.R.P.), oar-, hand-, and motor-propelled lifeboats.
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(a) General requirements. (1) Plastic lifeboats shall comply with the general requirements for the construction and arrangement of steel lifeboats, except that unless otherwise specified, materials, scantlings, methods of construction, fastenings, methods of attachment of component parts, and other specific construction details may be varied by the builder in order to produce a structurally sound boat meeting in every respect recognized standards of first class construction and one which will satisfactorily meet the performance requirements set forth in this subpart.

(2) Fibrous glass reinforced plastic lifeboats may be of the following categories of hull construction:


A—Single piece, outer hull construction.

B—Two piece, outer hull construction.

C—Single piece, inner hull construction.

D—Two piece, inner hull construction.

E—Multi-piece, inner hull construction.


(b) Specific requirements—(1) Resin. The resin used shall be of the fire retardant, nonair inhibited-type conforming to Class A of Military Specification MIL-R-21607 and Grade A, Class O of Military Specification MIL-R-7575, including tests after 1 year's weathering. In addition, the test panels shall be tested for continued conformance with Military Specification MIL-R-21607. All tests, including weathering of samples, shall be accomplished by an independent laboratory. Complete certification by the independent laboratory with test data shall be submitted to Coast Guard (G-MSE) for acceptance. Class A resin shall be fire retardant without additives. Class B resins will be given consideration upon request. Class B resin shall be fire retardant with additives and shall meet the same test requirements as that for Class A resins. When Class B resin is used for the prototype lifeboat, additives for fire retardancy shall not be used in order to obtain a translucent laminate for inspection purposes. This prototype test lifeboat will not be stamped approved, nor will it be acceptable for merchant vessels. Whichever class of resin the manufacturer decides to use for his prototype lifeboat, shall be used in his production lifeboats. A note to this effect shall be included in his specifications and drawings for this particular size and type lifeboat.

(2) Glass reinforcement. The glass reinforcement used shall have good laminated wet strength retention and shall meet the appropriate military specification stated in this paragraph. Glass cloth shall meet Military Specification MIL-Y-1140, Class C, form 4, No. 1000–150. Woven roving shall conform to Military Specification MIL-C-19663, Style 605–308 or Style 605–604. Other glass materials equivalent in strength, design, wet out, and efficiency will be given consideration upon request.

(3) Laminate. All exposed surfaces of the finished laminate shall present a smooth finish, and there shall be no protruding surface fibers, open voids, pits, cracks, bubbles or blisters. The laminate shall be essentially free from resin-starved or overimpregnated areas, and no foreign matter shall remain in the finished laminate. The entire laminate shall be fully cured and free of tackiness, and shall show no tendency to delaminate, peel, or craze in any overlay. The laminate shall not be released from the mold until a Barcol hardness reading of not less than 40–55 is obtained from at least 10 places on the nongel coated surface, including all interior inner and outer hull surfaces and built-in lockers. The mechanical properties of the laminate shall meet the requirements for a Grade 3 laminate as specified in Table I of Military Specification MIL-P-17549. Other grades will be given consideration on specific request. For the prototype boat of each design made by each manufacturer, the layup shall be made of unpigmented clear resins so that all details of construction will be visible for inspection and test panels representative of each prototype layup shall be tested in accordance with MIL-P-17549.

(4) Weights of F.R.P. lifeboats. (i) The variations in weight between the fibrous glass reinforced plastic in the prototype F.R.P. lifeboat and the fibrous glass reinforced plastic in the production F.R.P. lifeboat shall be within 5 percent. This weight shall be for the F.R.P. sections only and shall not include the weight of any hardware or equipment.

(ii) When assembling two similar sections as indicated by categories B and D of paragraph (a)(2) of this section, the weights of the matching F.R.P. pieces shall be within 5 percent of each other.

(iii) The recorded weights of the items indicated in paragraphs (b)(4) (i) and (ii) of this section shall be kept by the manufacturer, with each boat listed by size, type, and serial number.

[CGFR 65–9, 30 FR 11467, Sept. 8, 1965, as amended by CGD 72–133R, 37 FR 17039, Aug. 24, 1972; CGD 82–063b, 48 FR 4782, Feb. 3, 1983; CGD 95–072, 60 FR 50467, Sept. 29, 1995; CGD 96–041, 61 FR 50733, Sept. 27, 1996]

§ 160.035-9 Cubic capacity of lifeboats.
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(a) Definitions. The following definitions apply to the measurement of a lifeboat to determine its cubic capacity.

(1) Length (L). The length is the distance in feet from the inside of the plating or planking at the stem to the corresponding position at the stern. In the case of a boat with a square stern, the after terminus is the inside of the transom.

(2) Breadth (B). The breadth is the distance in feet over the plating or planking at the point where the breadth of the boat is greatest.

(3) Depth (D). The depth is the distance in feet amidships inside the plating from the top of the keel to the level of the gunwale. The depth used for calculating purposes shall not exceed 45 percent of the breadth.

(4) Sheer. Lifeboats shall have a sheer at each end at least equal to 4 percent of the length, and a sheer at the quarter points of at least 1 percent of the length. If less sheer is provided, the depth used to determine the cubic capacity shall be assumed to be reduced so as to achieve this minimum sheer.

(b) Formula. The cubic capacity shall be determined by the following formula:

L × B × D × 0.64

In the case of lifeboats with unusual proportions, the Commandant may require that the cubic capacity be calculated by exact measurements from which the exact seating capacity may be determined.

(c) Motor-propelled lifeboat. The cubiccapacityofamotor-propelled lifeboat shall be determined in the same manner as an oar-propelled lifeboat and then deducting from the gross volume, a volume equal to the engine box and accessories, and when carried, the radio cabin, searchlight, and their accessories. The volume of such equipment extending above the sheer line need not be deducted.

[CGFR 65–9, 30 FR 11467, Sept. 8, 1965, as amended by CGD 95–028, 62 FR 51213, Sept. 30, 1997]

§ 160.035-10 Number of persons allowed in lifeboats.
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(a) The maximum number of persons for which the lifeboat may be rated is determined as noted in paragraphs (a) (1), (2), and (3) of this section. The smallest number obtained is the number to be used.

(1) The number of persons which a lifeboat shall be permitted to accommodate shall be equal to the greatest whole number obtained by dividing the capacity in cubic feet by the factor shown in Table 160.035–10(a). The net cubic capacity shall be determined by §160.035–9(b).


Table 160.035-10(a)
------------------------------------------------------------------------
Length in feet_
-------------------------------------------------------------- Factor
Of_ But less than_
------------------------------------------------------------------------
18..................... 14
18.................................. 20..................... 13
20.................................. 22..................... 12
22.................................. 24..................... 11
24.................................. Or over................ 10
------------------------------------------------------------------------


(2) The number of persons permitted in the lifeboat shall not exceed the number for which seating space is provided as determined by drawing figures to scale of a size as noted in Figure 160.035–10(a)(2) on an arrangement plan of the lifeboat.

(3) The number of persons permitted in the lifeboat shall not exceed the number of persons wearing life preservers which can be seated in the lifeboat without interfering with the use of the oars or the operation of other propulsion equipment.

Figure 160.035–10(a)(2)

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(b) [Reserved]

§ 160.035-11 Inspection and testing of lifeboats.
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(a) General. Coast Guard marine inspectors shall be admitted to any place in the builder's factory where work is done on these lifeboats or component materials or parts. Lifeboats shall be inspected during the course of construction to determine that the arrangements and materials entering into the construction are in accordance with approved plans, and to insure that the workmanship is of good quality. Samples of materials entering into construction may be taken by the marine inspectors for such tests as may be deemed necessary at any time there is any question as to suitability or adequacy of any material or arrangement.

(b) Preapproval tests. Before approval is granted to any design of lifeboat, the following tests shall be made by a marine inspector:

(1) Strength test. The light lifeboat shall be suspended by shackles at the bow and stern, or by means of the releasing gear, and the length, beam, and depth shall be measured. Weights shall then be added to equal the weight of the equipment, food, water, etc., and persons for which the boat is to be approved, and the length, beam, and depth measured. Additional weight shall then be added so that the suspended load is 25 percent greater than the weight of the fully equipped and loaded lifeboat and the measurements repeated. All weights shall then be removed and the measurements rechecked. There shall be no appreciable set as a result of this test.

(2) Flooding test. Lifeboats shall be flooded while open to the sea to determine the amount of buoyancy necessary to float the complete boat including releasing gear but with no equipment, provision lockers, water tanks, or fuel tanks aboard. If provision lockers, water tanks, and fuel tanks cannot be removed, they should be flooded or filled to the final waterline. Lifeboats fitted with watertight stowage compartments to accommodate individual drinking water containers shall have these individual containers aboard and placed in the stowage compartments which shall be sealed watertight during the flooding test. Ballast of equivalent weight and density should be substituted for the motor, shaft, propeller, radio battery, searchlight, etc., if they are to be installed.

(i) Boats with independent buoyancy tanks or buoyancy units. The estimated amount of buoyancy to just float the boat in this condition should be fitted symmetrically aboard the lifeboat, and then the boat flooded. If the tops of the gunwales at their lowest point do not clear the surface of the water, the buoyancy shall be increased as necessary. An additional volume of buoyancy, or buoyancy units, equal to at least one-tenth the cubic capacity of the lifeboat shall be provided.

(ii) Boats with built-in buoyancy compartments. When flood testing lifeboats with built-in buoyancy compartments weights shall be placed in the bottom of the lifeboat to counteract the buoyancy provided for the persons to be carried. The amount of weight required per person carried shall be as follows:



------------------------------------------------------------------------
Weight per
Materials person
(pounds)
------------------------------------------------------------------------
Iron or steel.............................................. 72
Lead....................................................... 69
Concrete................................................... 110
------------------------------------------------------------------------


Other impervious material may be used if more convenient. The weight per person required is determined from the formula

W = 63d ÷ d - 63


where d is the density of material in pounds per cubic foot (Sandbags should not be used for this purpose inasmuch as their weight under water is not readily predictable.) If the lifeboat weighted as above does not float with the gunwale at the lowest point just clear of the surface of the water, unit air tanks should be slipped beneath the thwarts until the gunwales do clear the surface of the water. The additional air tankage required shall be incorporated in the design of the lifeboat.


(3) Seating capacity test. The lifeboat shall be fully loaded with equipment, and in this condition the number of persons for which the lifeboat is to be approved shall be seated, in accordance with the seating plan required in §160.035–14(a). All persons shall wear an approved life preserver and it shall be demonstrated by actual test that there is sufficient room to row the boat without interference.

(4) Freeboard test. Freeboards shall be measured to the low point of the sheer with the lifeboat in light condition with neither equipment nor persons aboard, and in the loaded condition with full equipment and persons aboard.

(5) Stability test. Upon the conclusion of the seating test, all persons on one side of the centerline shall disembark. The remaining people should sit upright and not move from their original positions. (Not less than one-half in total number of persons should remain in the lifeboat.) Freeboard to the low point of sheer shall then be measured. This freeboard should, in general, be not less than 10 percent of the depth of the lifeboat.

(c) Motor-propelled lifeboats must pass the tests as required for an oar-propelled lifeboat in §160.035–3. In addition, speed tests over a measured course and fuel consumption tests on a time basis shall be made to determine that the fully loaded motor-propelled lifeboats can maintain a speed of 6 knots for all classes of motor-propelled lifeboats, and that for each class of motor-propelled lifeboat its fuel tanks carry sufficient fuel for at least 24 hours at 6 knots. A 4-hour endurance trial shall be conducted with the fully loaded lifeboat at the RPM attained in the speed test in order to insure that there is no overheating, undue vibration, or other condition which would warrant the belief that the lifeboat could not maintain its proper speed for 24 hours. The time consumed in conducting the speed and fuel consumption tests may be counted toward the 4-hour endurance test. It shall be demonstrated that all engines installed in motor lifeboats can be started by the acceptable cranking system installed with no previous warming up period.

(d) Hand-propelled lifeboats shall be subjected to the same tests as required for an oar-propelled lifeboat. In addition, a test shall be made to assure that the lifeboat can be satisfactorily maneuvered with the hand-propelling gear. A speed of at least three knots shall be achieved in both light and load condition over a measured course of not less than 1,000 feet.

[CGFR 65–9, 30 FR 11467, Sept. 8, 1965, as amended by CGD 72–133R, 37 FR 17040, Aug. 24, 1972]

§ 160.035-12 Additional preapproval tests required for F.R.P. lifeboats.
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(a) General. These tests are required in addition to the preapproval tests required for steel lifeboats in §160.035–11. The prototype boat of each size or design submitted will be required to perform satisfactorily in the following tests which will be made in the presence of a marine inspector.

(b) Strength test. The following tests described in this paragraph are in lieu of the strength test in §160.035–11(b)(1):

(1) Suspension tests. The light lifeboat shall be suspended freely from the releasing gear and the length, beam, and depth measured. Weights shall then be added to equal the weight of the equipment, food, water, and persons to be carried (see §160.035–11(b)(2)(ii)), and the length, beam, and depth measured. Additional weights shall then be added so that the suspended load is 25, 50, 75, and 100 percent greater than the weight of the fully equipped and loaded lifeboat and the measurements taken at each 25 percent increments. (Water may be used for all or any portion of the weight if desired.) All weights shall then be removed and final measurements taken. There shall be no fractures or other signs of excessive stress and no appreciable set as a result of this test.

(2) Chock test. The light lifeboat shall be placed on blocks located under the keel at the quarter points and measurements of length, beam, and depth taken. The boat shall be flooded with water equal to the weight of all equipment, food, water, and persons to be carried and measurements of length, beam, and depth taken again. Additional measurements of 25, 50, 75, and 100 percent of the weight of the fully equipped and loaded lifeboat shall be added and the measurements taken at 25 percent increments. If the boat becomes full of water before 100 percent overload is reached, no additional weight need be added, and the last deflection measurements with the boat under load shall be taken at this point. The boat shall be drained and final measurements taken. There shall be no fractures or other signs of excessive stress and no appreciable set as a result of this test.

(3) Swing test. The boat shall be loaded with weights equal to the weight of all equipment, food, water and persons to be carried. It shall then be suspended by the releasing gear with falls 20 feet in length so arranged that when hanging freely the gunwale on one side of the boat is approximately 2 inches from a stationary concrete or steel wall or other structure of similar construction and rigidity. The boat shall then be hauled outboard a horizontal distance of 8 feet from its original position. From this point, the boat shall be allowed to freely swing inboard and strike the wall along one side. There shall be no damage which would render the boat unserviceable.

(4) Drop test. The boat shall be loaded with weights equal to the full weight of all equipment, food, water and persons to be carried. The boat shall then be suspended freely from the releasing gear and shall be dropped in a free fall into the water from a height of 10 feet. There shall be no damage which would render the boat unserviceable.

(5) Thwart test. A 200-pound sand bag shall be dropped from a height of 6 feet on the center of each thwart span. The thwarts shall not fracture or otherwise be rendered unserviceable.

(6) Towing test. With a towline rigged around the forward thwart in the same manner as the sea painter is normally rigged, the fully loaded lifeboat shall be towed at least 1,000 yards at a speed of not less than 5 knots. The boat shall exhibit satisfactory towing characteristics and there shall be no appreciable damage to the thwart.

(7) Tanks and lockers. Equipment tanks and watertight lockers shall be tested with not less than 1.0 p.s.i. of air pressure both before and after the tests described in paragraphs (b)(1) through (6) of this section.

§ 160.035-13 Testing and inspection after approval.
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(a) General. After the design of a lifeboat has been approved, subsequent lifeboats of the same design shall be individually inspected and tested as noted in §160.035–11(a) for metal lifeboats and paragraph (b) of this section for FRP. lifeboats. In addition, motors and band-propelling gear when installed shall be operated in the “ahead”, “neutral”, and “astern” positions. If mechanical disengaging apparatus is fitted, it shall be tested by suspending the lifeboat loaded with deadweight equivalent to the number of persons allowed in the lifeboat (165 pounds per person) together with the weight of the equipment, plus 10 percent of the total load, including the weight of the lifeboat. The release lever shall then be thrown over with this load suspended until the lifeboat is released. The apparatus shall be capable of being operated freely by one man, without the use of aids or undue force to the satisfaction of the marine inspector. (This test may be conducted ashore by suspending the lifeboat just clear of the ground.)

(b) Additional production inspection and tests for FRP. lifeboats—(1) Inspection requirements. Each production model fibrous glass reinforced plastic lifeboat shall as a condition to its being accepted as Coast Guard approved equipment, be examined by a marine inspector at the following stages in its manufacture:

(i) When the major, individual components of the shell and inner hull or buoyancy casing are completed but before they are assembled together. At this stage the marine inspector shall satisfy himself that these components comply with the approved plans and specifications by visual inspection, thickness measurements and comparison of the weights of the components with the weights recorded for the same components in the prototype.

(ii) At the time the internal buoyancy is installed. If block plastic foam is used, it shall be inspected after it has been cut to size and shaped but before it is inserted and covered. The installation shall be completed in the presence of the marine inspector and he shall verify that the required amount is used by weighing the material. If foamed-in-place plastic foam is used, the marine inspector shall be present during the foaming operation. A sample of the foam shall be retained outside the boat and when it sets it shall be used to make a density determination of the material.

(iii) When the boat is completed. At this stage the marine inspector shall check the scantlings of the minor components and the overall compliance with the plans. The manufacturer shall certify that the materials used are in accordance with the approved bill of materials.

(2) Test requirements. After the inspections listed in paragraph (b)(1) of this section are completed, the following tests are to be carried out to the satisfaction of the marine inspector:

(i) The boat shall be suspended freely from the releasing gear and the length, breadth and depth measured. The boat shall then be flooded with water equal to 1 1/2 times the weight of the boat, persons, equipment, and provisions and fuel (if motor driven) less the weight of the boat. This is represented by the following formula:


Water added = 1.5 × (empty boat + equipment + provisions + fuel + people) - empty boat


The length, breadth and depth shall be measured in this loaded condition and, again, after the load has been removed. The loaded deflections and the permanent deformations shall not significantly exceed those recorded for the prototype in the pre-approval tests. Also, while flooded, the exterior of the hull shall be examined for leaks or other defects. After the boat is drained, the attachment of the release gear shall be carefully examined.

(ii) All provision tanks shall be tested by a static head above the tank top of 2 feet of water without showing leakage or permanent deformation.

(iii) The plastic fuel tanks shall be tested by a static head above the tank top of 10 feet of water without showing leakage or permanent deformation.

(c) Marking. (1) A corrosion resistant nameplate shall be affixed at the bow of each lifeboat on which is stamped the name of the manufacturer, serial number, approval number, dimensions of the lifeboat, cubic capacity, buoyancy capacity, net weight of the boat in Condition A and Condition B, the number of persons for which the lifeboat is approved, together with the Marine Inspection Office identification letters, the date, and the letters U.S.C.G. Condition A includes buoyancy and water tanks and provision stowage compartments but no equipment, provisions, water or persons. Condition B includes full required provisions and equipment, persons allowed at 10 cubic feet or by seating test whichever is less at 165 pounds and 3 quarts of water (6.25 pounds)—per person.

[CGFR 65–9, 30 FR 11467, Sept. 8, 1965, as amended by CGD 72–133R, 37 FR 17040, Aug. 24, 1972; CGD 75–186, 41 FR 10437, Mar. 11, 1976]

§ 160.035-14 Procedure for approval of lifeboats.
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(a) Before action is taken on any design of lifeboat, plans covering fully the arrangement and construction of the lifeboat, material specifications, together with a lines drawing, stowage arrangement, seating arrangement, and other details shall be submitted to the Commandant through the Commander of the Coast Guard District in which the lifeboat is built. The plans for approval must be detailed to a degree that the lifeboat can be constructed from the plans submitted.

(b) If the drawings required in paragraph (a) of this section are satisfactory, the manufacturer shall notify the Commander of the Coast Guard District in which the lifeboat is built in writing when fabrication is to commence. A marine inspector will be assigned to witness the construction procedure in accordance with the plans, verify the tests required by §160.035–11 for metal lifeboats and §160.035–12 for additional tests required for F.R.P. lifeboats. Also, the manufacturer shall provide the necessary tools and facilities required to conduct the tests. The Coast Guard shall have the right to require such other additional tests as reasonably may be deemed necessary, either with the completed boat or component parts, depending upon the particular construction methods and materials used by the builder, or any unusual conditions or circumstances which may arise during the construction or testing.

(c) At the time that the tests are successfully completed, the manufacturer shall present to the marine inspector four corrected copies of the plans noted in paragraph (a) of this section, including any corrections, changes, or additions which may have been found necessary during construction or testing. If the manufacturer desires more than one set of approved plans, additional copies shall be submitted at that time.

(d) Upon receipt of corrected drawings and satisfactory test reports, the Commandant will issue a certificate of approval. No change shall be made in the design or construction without first receiving permission of the Commandant via the Commander of the Coast Guard District in which the lifeboat is built.

Subpart 160.036—Hand-Held Rocket-Propelled Parachute Red Flare Distress Signals
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Source: CGD 76–048a and 76–048b, 44 FR 73081, Dec. 17, 1979, unless otherwise noted.

§ 160.036-1 Incorporation by reference.
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(a) The following is incorporated by reference into this subpart:

(1) “The Universal Color Language” and “The Color Names Dictionary” in Color: Universal Language and Dictionary of Names, National Bureau of Standards Special Publication 440, December 1976.

(b) NBS Special Publication 440 may be obtained by ordering from the Superintendent of Documents, U.S. Government Printing Office, Washington, DC 20402 (Order by SD Catalog No. C13.10:440).

(c) Approval to incorporate by reference the material listed in this section was obtained from the director of the Federal Register on November 1, 1979. The material is on file in the Federal Register library.

§ 160.036-2 Type.
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(a) Handheld rocket-propelled parachute red flare distress signals specified by this subpart shall be of one type which shall consist essentially of a completely self-contained device which can be fired from the hand to provide a rocket-propelled parachute red flare distress signal.

(b) [Reserved]

§ 160.036-3 Materials, workmanship, construction and performance requirements.
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(a) Materials. The materials used in handheld rocket-propelled parachute red flare distress signals shall conform strictly to the specifications and drawings submitted by the manufacturer and approved by the Commandant. In general, all exposed parts shall be corrosion-resistant or properly protected against corrosion.

(b) Workmanship. Handheld rocket-propelled parachute red flare distress signals shall be of first class workmanship and shall be free from imperfections of manufacture affecting their appearance or that may affect their serviceability.

(c) Construction. The exterior case of the cartridge shall be made of a suitable metal and shall protect against the entrance of moisture. The construction shall be such that the parachute and pyrotechnic candle will be expelled at approximately the maximum altitude reached.

(d) Performance. Signals shall meet all of the inspection and test requirements contained in §160.036–4.

§ 160.036-4 Approval and production tests.
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(a) Approval tests. The manufacturer must produce a lot of at least 100 signals from which samples must be taken for testing for approval under §160.036–7. The approval tests are the operational tests and technical tests in paragraphs (c) and (d) of this section. The approval tests must be conducted by an independent laboratory accepted by the Commandant under §159.010 of this chapter.

(b) Production inspections and tests. Production inspections and tests of each lot of signals produced must be conducted under the procedures in §159.007 of this chapter. Signals from a rejected lot must not be represented as meeting this Subpart or as being approved by the Coast Guard. If the manufacturer identifies the cause of the rejection of a lot of signals, the signals in the lot may be reworked by the manufacturer to correct the problem. Samples from the rejected lot must be retested in order to be accepted. Records shall be kept of the reasons for rejection, the reworking performed on the rejected lot, and the results of the second test.

(1) Lot size. For the purposes of sampling the production of signals, a lot must consist of not more than 30,000 signals. Lots must be numbered serially by the manufacturer. A new lot must be started with:

(i) Any change in construction details,

(ii) Any changes in sources of raw materials, or

(iii) The start of production on a new production line or on a previously discontinued production line.

(2) Inspections and tests by the manufacturer. The manufacturer's quality control procedures must include inspection of materials entering into construction of the signals and inspection of the finished signals, to determine that signals are being produced in accordance with the approved plans. Samples from each lot must be tested in accordance with the operational tests in paragraph (c) of this section.

(3) Inspections and test by an independent laboratory. An independent laboratory accepted by the Commandant under §159.010 of this chapter must perform or supervise the inspections and tests under paragraph (b)(2) of this section at least 4 times a year, unless the number of lots produced in a year is less than four. The inspections and tests must occur at least once during each quarterly period, unless no lots are produced during this period. If less than four lots are produced, the laboratory must perform or supervise the inspection and testing of each lot. In addition, the laboratory must perform or supervise the technical tests in paragraph (d) of this section at least once for every ten lots of signals produced, except that the number of technical tests must be at least one but not more than four per year. If a lot of signals tested by the independent laboratory is rejected, the laboratory must perform or supervise the inspections and tests of the reworked lot and the next lot of signals produced. The tests of each reworked lot and the next lot produced must not be counted for the purpose of meeting the requirement for the annual number of inspections and tests performed or supervised by the independent laboratory.

(c) Operational tests. Each lot of signals must be sampled and tested as follows:

(1) Sampling procedure and accept/reject criteria. A sample of signals must be selected at random from the lot. The size of the sample must be the individual sample size in Table 160.036–4(c)(1) corresponding to the lot size. Each signal in the sample is tested as prescribed in the test procedure in paragraph (c)(2) of this section. Each signal that has a defect listed in the table of defects (Table 160.036–4(c)(2)) is assigned a score (failure percent) in accordance with that table. In the case of multiple defects, only the score having the highest numerical value is assigned to that signal. If the sum of all the failure percents (cumulative failure percent) for the number of units in the sample is less than or equal to the accept criterion, the lot is accepted. If this sum is equal to or more than the reject criterion the lot is rejected. If the cumulative failure percent falls between the accept and reject criteria, another sample is selected from the production lot and the operational tests are repeated. The cumulative failure percent of each sample tested is added to that of the previous samples to obtain the cumulative failure percent for all the signals tested (cumulative sample size). Additional samples are tested and the tests repeated until either the accept or reject criterion for the cumulative sample size is met. If any signal in the sample explodes when fired or ignites in a way that could burn or otherwise injure the person firing it, the lot is rejected without further testing. (This procedure is diagrammed in figure 160.036–4(c)).

(2) Test procedure. Each sample signal (specimen) must be tested as follows:

(i) Conditioning of test specimens—water resistence. Immerse specimen horizontally with uppermost portion of the signal approximately 25 mm (1 in.) below the surface of the water for a period of 24 hours.

(ii) Firing and operating characteristics. Signals shall fire and operate satisfactorily when the manufacturer's directions are followed. The parachute and pyrotechnic candle shall be ejected at approximately the maximum altitude reached by the projectile case. The parachute shall open and properly suspend the pyrotechnic candle without fouling. The pyrotechnic candle shall burn with uniform intensity and without damaging the parachute, shrouds, or leader line.

(iii) Altitude. The altitude reached by a signal is considered to be the height at which the parachute and pyrotechnic candle are ejected from the projectile case, as determined by visual observation against an object of known height, such as a tower or balloon, or by triangulation from two or more points of observation, or by other method satisfactory to the Commandant. The altitude reached shall be not less than 150 m (500 ft.).

(iv) Rate of descent. The rate of descent of a signal is considered to be the calculated average rate obtained by dividing the altitude by the time of descent to the surface. The rate of descent shall not exceed 4.5 m (15 ft.) per second.

(v) Burning time. The burning time of the pyrotechnic candle shall be obtained by stop watch measurement from the time a distinct, sustained flame is emitted until it ceases. The burning time shall be not less than 30 seconds.


Table 160.036-4(c)(1)_Accept and Reject Criteria for Operational Test Lots
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Individual Cumulative
Lot size sample Sample sample Accept Reject
size size \1\ \1\
----------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------
280 or 8 First.................... 8 ( \2\ 400
)
less. .......... Second................... 16 100 500
.......... Third.................... 24 200 600
.......... Fourth................... 32 300 700
.......... Fifth.................... 40 500 800
.......... Sixth.................... 48 700 900
.......... Seventh.................. 56 950 951
281 to 13 First.................... 13 0 400
500. .......... Second................... 26 100 600
.......... Third.................... 39 300 800
.......... Fourth................... 52 500 1,000
.......... Fifth.................... 65 700 1,100
.......... Sixth.................... 78 1,000 1,200
.......... Seventh.................. 91 1,350 1,351
501 to 20 First.................... 20 0 500
1,200. .......... Second................... 40 300 800
.......... Third.................... 60 600 1,000
.......... Fourth................... 80 800 1,300
.......... Fifth.................... 100 1,100 1,500
.......... Sixth.................... 120 1,400 1,700
.......... Seventh.................. 140 1,850 1,851
1,201 to 32 First.................... 32 100 700
3,200. .......... Second................... 64 400 1,000
.......... Third.................... 96 800 1,300
.......... Fourth................... 128 1,200 1,700
.......... Fifth.................... 160 1,700 2,000
.......... Sixth.................... 192 2,100 2,300
.......... Seventh.................. 224 2,550 2,551
More 50 First.................... 50 200 900
than .......... Second................... 100 700 1,400
3,201. .......... Third.................... 150 1,300 1,900.......... Fourth................... 200 1,900 2,500 (continued)