Offshore Platform Windsock Systems

Our offshore systems feature marine-grade stainless steel construction, specialized corrosion-resistant coatings, and sealed bearing systems designed specifically for saltwater environments and extreme weather conditions.

BDS windsock systems are engineered to align with CAP 437 guidance for offshore helicopter landing areas and are widely used to support wind indication and visibility requirements in offshore environments. Final compliance is determined by the overall platform design and project-specific requirements.

BDS windsock system components are engineered for long-term performance in continuous wind exposure and harsh outdoor environments, with service life varying by component and site conditions.

Frame assemblies and poles are constructed from 304/316 stainless steel with high-performance powder coating and feature maintenance-free delrin-type bearings, delivering years of reliable, corrosion-resistant operation.

Windsock fabric is manufactured from commercial-grade nylon with UV inhibitors and water-repellent coating, engineered to withstand continuous wind exposure while maintaining flexibility and responsiveness to changing wind conditions.

Unlike heavier materials, the lightweight fabric allows for more accurate wind indication and helps reduce the risk of tearing under sustained use. Fabric replacement is typically required every 1–3 years, depending on UV exposure and wind conditions, with gradual fading being the most common reason for replacement.

BDS Systems manufactures the 760 Series lighted windsock frame, engineered specifically for Class I Division 2 hazardous locations (Class 1 Div 2), where flammable gases or vapors are not normally present but may exist under abnormal operating conditions. 

The 760 Series features IP69K-compliant, marine-listed construction, supporting reliable operation in corrosive industrial environments and high-washdown conditions common at chemical processing, petrochemical, and energy facilities.

Windsock lighting configuration should be selected based on available electrical infrastructure:

• Internally LED lighted frame assemblies: 751 Series is a single LED light frame assembly and the 752 Series is a double LED light frame assembly, each providing uniform, low-glare illumination from within the windsock cone for consistent visibility. 
• 12V DC frame assemblies (740 Series): Designed for international installations or installations requiring compatibility with 90–264V input power systems
• Solar-powered frame assemblies (740SP Series): Self-contained units for remote or off-grid locations where trenching or electrical service is not practical.

Proper windsock system configuration—including frame assembly, windsock, and mounting structure—ensures reliable wind direction visibility during night operations and low-visibility conditions.

Contact us to determine the best lighting solution for your application

Offshore platform windsocks face unique challenges that land-based systems never encounter. Constant saltwater spray, extreme temperature variations, hurricane-force winds, and the corrosive marine atmosphere demand specialized engineering solutions that go far beyond standard aviation windsocks.

Our marine-grade systems feature corrosion-resistant stainless steel construction, specialized marine coatings, and sealed bearing systems that maintain smooth operation despite continuous exposure to saltwater and extreme weather. The result is a windsock system that provides reliable wind indication year after year, even in the world’s most punishing