Instrumented Vertical Lead Sheaves Support Deepwater Monitoring

August 22, 2025

Comprehensive load monitoring systems from Rugged Controls support offshore operations with precision, durability, and ease of deployment.

In support of operations on the Lucius Truss Spar in the Gulf of Mexico, Rugged Controls provided a high-capacity, instrumented sheave system to enable accurate tension, payout, and speed monitoring. The turnkey rental package underscores Rugged Controls commitment to supplying durable, accurate monitoring solutions for offshore applications.

System Configuration and Deployment

The rental package included two Skookum VLS-30 Vertical Lead Sheaves, instrumented for 1.5” wire rope and rated for up to 50 tons of maximum tension. Rugged Controls also provided a panel-mounted RPC-90x display and a laptop preloaded with WinchDAC software for real-time data logging and visualization. These 30” sheaves are now part of Rugged Controls’ rental fleet and are available for weekly or monthly projects.

Project Background: Lucius Truss Spar

Located in approximately 7,100 feet of water, the Lucius Truss Spar is a deepwater platform with production capacities of 80,000 barrels of oil and 450 million cubic feet of natural gas per day. The demand for reliable load monitoring equipment in such environments is critical, and Rugged Controls’ systems help ensure operational safety and performance in these high-stakes conditions.

A Rental Fleet Built for Flexibility

Rugged Controls offers a broad range of rental equipment for short and medium-term applications such as mooring line tension monitoring, cable pulls, bollard pull tests, and on-site calibration. Available inventory includes:

  • Running line tensiometers (RLTs) for up to 4.5” wire rope and 500 tons max tension.
  • Tension links rated up to 100 tons.
  • Load shackles with capacities up to 200 tons.
  • Instrumented hanging block sheaves up to 24” in diameter.
  • Vertical lead sheaves rated to 50 tons max tension.

All rental systems are shipped calibrated and ready to work.

Rugged Displays in a Portable Format

Rugged Controls rental systems are built around our industry-leading RPC-90x and RPC-80x line control displays. Housed in Pelican cases for portability and protection, these displays feature ultra-bright screens, configurable alarms, and simple plug-and-play connections. Designed to run on AC or DC power, the system’s modular design allows for fast setup and safe deployment in challenging conditions.

Real-Time Data Capture with WinchDAC

Each rental package includes a laptop running WinchDAC, Rugged Controls’ proprietary data acquisition software. WinchDAC transforms live data from the RPC display into easy-to-read formats, while logging every tension, speed, and payout data point in real time. It removes the need for manual note-taking or raw data file cleanup, allowing customers to review, store, or share professional-grade reports with minimal effort.

Conclusion

From deepwater mooring to load testing on deck, Rugged Controls’ rental fleet is engineered for performance, reliability, and immediate mobilization. With advanced displays, real-time software, and proven instrumentation, we help clients complete projects safely and efficiently.

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