RUD launches first DNV Type Approved boltable lifting point for subsea use

New ACP-TURNADO OCEANSTAR combines DNV Type Approval, automatic alignment, enhanced corrosion protection and increased load capacity for demanding offshore and subsea applications.

RUD has launched the ACP-TURNADO OCEANSTAR, the first boltable lifting point to hold DNV Type Approval for subsea lifting.

Purpose built for demanding offshore and underwater environments, the new lifting point combines recognised subsea approval with RUD’s established automatic alignment technology, enhanced corrosion resistance and up to 30% higher working load capacity compared with conventional lifting points of a similar design.

Offshore and subsea lifting operations place significant demands on lifting equipment. Components may be exposed to salt water, corrosion, dynamic loading, low temperatures and difficult access, while equipment suitability, traceability and compliance remain essential.

The ACP-TURNADO OCEANSTAR has been engineered specifically for these conditions, providing a specialist subsea solution rather than adapting a conventional lifting point for underwater use.

DNV Type Approved for subsea lifting

A key development is the product’s certification in accordance with DNV-ST-0377 and DNV-ST-0378. This provides independently recognised assurance for equipment used within offshore, marine and underwater lifting applications.

The ACP-TURNADO OCEANSTAR also meets the requirements of:

• NORSOK R-002
• DIN EN 1677-1
• ASME B30.26:2015
• DGUV-R 109-017:2020-12

These approvals and standards help support equipment selection and compliance within industries where lifting operations are carried out in some of the most challenging working environments.

Engineered for underwater conditions

Every component of the ACP-TURNADO OCEANSTAR features a corrosion resistant zinc flake coating. This provides at least 720 hours of salt-spray resistance in accordance with DIN EN ISO 9227, helping to protect the lifting point during prolonged exposure to salt water and demanding marine environments.

The product has a maximum component hardness of 38 HRC, supporting resistance to hydrogen embrittlement. Its grade 10.9 bolt has also been tested to achieve at least 36 joules at −40°C, addressing the material performance requirements associated with offshore and subsea applications.

The distinctive golden lift bail provides improved underwater visibility, helping operators during installation, inspection and maintenance activities.

Automatic alignment for safer load handling

The ACP-TURNADO OCEANSTAR incorporates RUD’s spring assisted automatic alignment mechanism. This enables the lift bail to automatically align with the direction of the load, helping to prevent it from remaining in an unfavourable position.

By reducing the risk of sudden changes in the lift bail’s position, the mechanism helps prevent unexpected load drops and damaging shock loads. It also reduces the need for manual repositioning before lifting, supporting safer and more efficient handling in locations where access may be limited.

The lifting point can be loaded from all sides and provides 360-degree rotation for alignment and 180-degree pivoting.

Up to 30% higher working load limit

Compared with conventional lifting points of a similar shape and design, the ACP-TURNADO OCEANSTAR offers up to 30% higher working load limits.

This additional capacity provides an important safety reserve during dynamic load peaks, particularly during lifting operations within the splash zone.

The range is available in seven metric sizes from M8 to M30, with working load limits ranging from 0.5 to 8 tonnes.

Designed for inspection and long-term use

The ACP-TURNADO OCEANSTAR features a captive but exchangeable grade 10.9 bolt, supporting straightforward maintenance and long-term usability.

All load-bearing components are 100% electromagnetically crack-tested, while RUD BLUE-ID RFID technology supports efficient inspection, traceability and digital documentation.

Load-capacity markings are also provided for both 4:1 and 5:1 safety factors.

Strengthening RUD’s offshore and subsea portfolio

Building on the success of the RUD ROV-HOOK, the ACP-TURNADO OCEANSTAR expands RUD’s established range of DNV-approved lifting solutions for offshore and subsea applications. Combining DNV Type Approval, automatic alignment, enhanced corrosion resistance and increased working load capacity, it provides another purpose-built solution for safer and more controlled lifting in demanding marine environments.