Real-Time Rope Tension Monitoring System Launched for Tug Crews

Lankhorst Ropes has introduced the Sureline real-time rope tension monitoring system, allowing tug crews to receive immediate feedback on the loads experienced by their towing lines. This innovative system uses a pen-shaped sensor that is easily installed in the core of the Lankhorst rope in just one minute before the towing operation. Through an on-vessel tablet display, tug crews can monitor rope tension, angle, slew angle, and peak loads in real-time, enabling them to respond promptly to any changes in the loading on the tow rope. By providing this live feedback, Sureline helps tug masters avoid over-tensioning the tow line above their preset limit.

Developed by UK-based Sensor Technologies, the Sureline system is exclusively available to Lankhorst Ropes customers under a rope manufacturer agreement. Jacco van Snippenberg, sales director Towage & Salvage at Lankhorst Ropes, highlighted the importance of this technology in improving rope service life assessment. Previously, tug operators had limited methods to assess remaining rope service life, leading to premature retirement or unsafe usage of ropes. With Sureline, operators can now access real-time data on rope usage, allowing them to maximize rope service life and plan for retirement to minimize service disruption.

The Sureline sensor, powered by batteries, can monitor and report up to 10 data points per second with an accuracy of +/-5% when calibrated. Multiple sensors can be used on different ropes and monitored on a single display, with alarms indicating when a rope exceeds its safe level. All rope usage during towing is recorded by the Sureline system, and sensors can be easily recovered from the rope after usage for recharging. This technology represents a significant advancement in the monitoring and management of towing lines for tug crews, enhancing safety and efficiency in their operations.

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