Q: Is the ACR SM-3 a direct replacement for the discontinued SM-2 model?
A: Yes, the SM-3 is designed as a drop-in upgrade for the legacy ACR SM-2. It utilizes the exact same mounting bracket hole pattern, allowing you to retrofit your vessel without drilling new holes or adding adapter plates. While it fits the same footprint, it upgrades you to international MED certification and eliminates the need for hard-to-find lantern batteries by using standard AA Lithium cells.
Q: How does the gravity switch work if there are no external buttons?
A: To ensure reliability in harsh marine environments, the SM-3 uses a sealed, button-free Gravity Switch. Activation is controlled entirely by orientation: simply flip the light 180 degrees so the LED lens points upward (skyward) to start the strobe. To turn it off, invert the unit so the lens points downward.
Q: Does the unit come with batteries installed?
A: No, batteries are not included to ensure the product can be shipped as "Non-Hazmat" freight, which keeps shipping costs lower for you. You will need to purchase two (2) AA L91 Lithium batteries separately. We specifically recommend L91 Lithium cells to ensure maximum shelf life and reliable operation in extreme temperatures.
Q: What are the vessel carriage requirements for lifebuoy lights?
A: Current SOLAS and USCG regulations state that at least 50% of a vessel's total lifebuoys must be fitted with a certified self-igniting light. Depending on the length of your ship, this typically requires a minimum of between 4 and 15 marked lifebuoys per vessel.
Q: Do I need to replace the entire light after it activates?
A: No, the SM-3 is reusable. If the light has been used, you simply need to replace the 2 AA L91 batteries. However, to maintain full MED/SOLAS regulatory compliance, the light unit itself has a fixed service life and must be replaced 5 years from the date of installation.
Q: Is this light rated for use on oil rigs or high bridge wings?
A: Absolutely. The ACR SM-3 is built to exceed the standard SOLAS 30-meter drop requirement. It has been successfully drop-tested from 76 meters (249 feet), making it sufficiently rugged for oil platforms, petrochemical applications, and commercial vessels with high freeboards.
Q: What are the technical specs for visibility and run-time?
A: The high-intensity LED provides 360° visibility with a minimum output of 3 candelas, visible for approximately 2 miles. The efficient power management allows it to strobe continuously for over 40 hours at 30°C (86°F), or over 24 hours in freezing water (-1°C), which is significantly longer than IMO requirements.
Q: Will the mounting bracket survive long-term sun exposure?
A: Yes. The mounting bracket is molded from the same high-grade UV-resistant polycarbonate as the light housing. It is engineered to resist brittleness, cracking, and corrosion caused by UV rays and salt spray, ensuring the light stays secure until an emergency occurs.
