In mooring maneuvers, safety and efficiency leave no room for error. One of the most advanced solutions to guarantee both is the use of Quick Release Hooks (QRH), a mooring system designed to release a vessel’s lines immediately and in a controlled way.

These systems have largely replaced traditional methods thanks to their reliability, ease of use and adaptability to all types of terminals, from energy facilities to commercial ports.

What are Quick Release Hooks and how do they work in mooring?

Quick Release Hooks (QRH) are devices installed on the quay that act as safe mooring points for vessel lines. Their main function is to ensure these lines can be released instantly and safely, even when operating at their maximum working load.

In practice, this means that a single operator can activate the release mechanism without having to approach tensioned ropes, significantly reducing the risk of accidents.

How they work is simple:

• The hook holds the vessel’s line under normal mooring conditions.
• When required (maneuver, emergency, excess tension), it can be released via a manual system, a local automatic release from the control panel, or a remote release from the control room.
• Some models also include sensors that monitor line tension in real time, triggering alarms in case of overload.

Thanks to this combination of safety, speed and ease of use, Quick Release Hooks have become a standard in modern terminals and ports with demanding operational requirements.

How do Quick Release Hooks enhance safety?

During mooring, the lines are under high tension, which can be a serious risk for port personnel. Quick Release Hooks reduce this danger by allowing a single operator to release the mooring lines without entering high-tension areas.

Additionally, they integrate manual, local, and remote release systems. This means that in case of emergency, the release can be carried out directly on the quay or remotely from the control room.

Advantages of Quick Release Hooks compared to traditional systems

These elements have become the benchmark for advanced mooring systems because they combine several key advantages:

Safety for port personnel

The risk of accidents during mooring and unmooring operations is drastically reduced, as staff do not need to approach tensioned lines to release them.

Reduced times and greater operational agility

The release process is executed immediately, speeding up both routine maneuvers and emergency situations. This keeps logistics flowing and optimizes berthing times.

Reliability under extreme conditions

Made with high-strength steels and designed under strict calculation methods such as the Finite Element Method (FEM), QRHs safely withstand maximum mooring tensions and deliver stable performance even in extreme operating conditions.

Technology and versatility at the service of the port

Beyond their main function, QRHs can incorporate sensors to monitor line tension in real time as well as remote release options from the control room, adapting to different port scenarios.

Reduced maintenance and greater efficiency

Thanks to their robust design and premium materials, they require minimal intervention throughout their service life. This not only reduces maintenance costs but also guarantees uninterrupted operations, avoiding delays in ports where every minute counts.

Is my terminal suitable for Quick Release Hooks?

The answer is almost always yes. They are designed to bring safety and efficiency to a wide range of port environments. They are especially valuable in:

Liquid bulk and LNG terminals

In facilities handling flammable or high-risk products, having a system that can release mooring lines instantly is essential to prevent serious accidents.

Commercial and industrial ports with high vessel traffic

When mooring and unmooring are continuous, QRHs streamline maneuvers and reduce operation times, ensuring greater logistical efficiency.

Energy and strategic facilities

Refineries, petrochemical plants and gas terminals require highly reliable mooring systems capable of responding in emergencies. They provide the precision and safety needed in these critical environments.

In short, if your port handles high activity, sensitive products or requires fast and safe maneuvers, Quick Release Hooks are a strategic investment that strengthens safety and operational efficiency.

 

Prosertek Quick Release Hooks: reliability and innovation

At Prosertek, we have been developing port solutions that combine robustness and innovation for more than 30 years. Our Quick Release Hooks stand out for their compact design, easy installation and customization options to meet the needs of each project.

In addition, they can integrate accessories such as capstans for safe line handling, real-time load monitoring systems and special protective coatings to guarantee durability even in the most demanding marine environments.

More than just a mooring element, Prosertek’s Quick Release Hooks are a critical tool to enhance safety, efficiency and operational continuity in any port.

Want to know how Quick Release Hooks can improve the safety and efficiency of your port? Contact our team and we will help you find the solution that best fits your project.