ROV Manipulator Recovered Black Box
A Hydro-Lek manipulator was used to successfully recover both flight recorders from Air France 447, which crashed in the Atlantic Ocean on 31st May 2009. The HLK HDR6R is a compact, rugged 6-function arm designed for the new breed of smaller work-class ROVs. It was used by US-based Phoenix International Holdings (Phoenix), experts in deep ocean search and recovery operations, on its ROV Remora at depths of 3,900 metres to clear debris and grab hold of the FDR and CVR and place them in a basket for recovery to the surface.
Fitted with a selectable actuator at the shoulder joint, the HLK HD6R is mountable in 4 separate positions to allow port and starboard mounting as well as offering additional up or down functions. This allows for additional reach into holes or restricted pipe ends.
"Phoenix has used Hydro-Lek's 6-function rate manipulator for a number of years now. It offers excellent value for the money and has helped perform numerous successful salvage operations for our government and commercial clients in depths of up to 5,400 metres," said Steven Saint Amour, Phoenix's Manager of ROV Operations.
Phoenix have used the HLK HD6R manipulator for the past 12 years in the recovery of a F-14, SH-60 helicopter, Airbus 310, ATR 72 and a Boeing 737 - testimony to the ability of Hydro-Lek's products to withstand the toughest conditions over a long period of time.
Earlier articles and news on AF447 in Hydro International:
- Air France Flight AF447
- Black Box Retrieval
- WHOI Joins Search for AF447
- AUV Finds Air France Flight 447 off Brazil
