Carmanah Technologies Corporation was recently granted a letter of compliance by the United States Coast Guard (USCG) for PATON 33 CFR Part 67 for Carmanah/Sabik M701-5 and M702-5 solar LED marine lanterns for structures on Class C designated waters, as well as for its M704-5 and M708 lanterns for Class B and Class C designated waters.
According to USCG lantern performance specifications, Private Aids to Navigation (PATON lanterns) are divided into two categories, Part 66 and Part 67, according to the Code of Federal Regulations (CFR) volume 33. PATON 33 CFR Part 66, to which Carmanah already declares compliance, relates to all PATON lanterns generally under State jurisdiction. PATON 66 specifies required intensities for 1, 2, 3 and 5-mile lights based on a 10-nautical-mile meteorological visibility. Typically, these are lights that mark private docks, marinas and non-Federally maintained waterways. For PATON 66, the manufacturer supplies data sheets showing compliance with PATON 66 and upon product approval by the USCG, the manufacturer may then self-declare compliance to PATON 66.
PATON 33 CFR Part 67 pertains to “the obstruction lights and fog signals to be operated…on or over…the Outer Continental Shelf…for the purpose of exploring for, developing, removing and transporting resources therefrom.” Applications requiring PATON 67 would include oil platforms, artificial islands and other structures that are located far from shore.
Lights for PATON 67 have a designated intensity based on their location. The USCG assigns effective intensity values of 1, 25 and 125 candelas for 1, 3 and 5-mile lights on class C, B and A structures, respectively. Carmanah was able to demonstrate that its 700 series solar LED marine lanterns meet certain requirements and that the products’ power generation and autonomy are adequate for the operational area for the chosen class (A, B or C).
PATON 67 compliance is expected to create new market opportunities for Carmanah/Sabik 700 series marine lanterns, particularly within the oil and gas industry. While PATON 66 and PATON 67 are American certifications, many coast guards and maritime authorities worldwide base their own regulations and certifications on those of the U.S. Coast Guard.
Over a decade ago, Carmanah Technologies Corporation developed the very first solar LED lantern for the U.S. Coast Guard and has continued to work with maritime authorities worldwide to develop best-in-class, self-contained solar LED aids-to-navigation lighting solutions that meet the technical specifications and quality standards of the marine industry. A strategic partnership with Finland-based marine lighting pioneer Sabik Oy, announced in March of 2010 further strengthens both companies’ positions in this highly technical market and expands their ability to provide the performance, reliability and functionality demanded by customers such as the U.S. Coast Guard.
For more information on the Carmanah/Sabik partnership, click here. To learn more about Sabik products, visit www.sabik.com.