mcmurdo EPIRB-AIS, User Manual

Page: 14 / 52

Page 8
3.4 Float-free enclosure
If you purchased the automatically activated variant - also known as
the “float-
free” version - then your EPIRB is supplied in a fully protective enclosure.
3.4.1 Automatic activation
The float-free enclosure is spring loaded to automatically release the EPIRB if
your vessel sinks. This automatic release is controlled by a device called a
Hydrostatic Release Unit (HRU) fitted inside the enclosure (see below).
3.4.2 Manual activation
If you need to activate your EPIRB manually, it can be released from the
enclosure (see page 11).
To prevent accidental activation due to contact with water, the float-free
enclosure contains a magnet which deactivates the sea contacts.
1. Beacon
released when
submerged in
water at <4m.
2. Lever ejects
cover and EPIRB.
3. EPIRB floats to
the surface and
switches on
automatically.