ROCOL strengthen focus on customers with new appointment

Wednesday, 30th March 2022

A new Head of Customer Experience has joined the team at global industrial lubricants, cutting fluids and line marking systems manufacturer, ROCOL.

Ellen Limbert joins from her previous role as Senior Customer Experience Manager within the digital division at Leeds Building Society.

ROCOL is a market leader in the manufacture of high-performance lubricants for some of the most challenging operations and applications in industry. The company’s industrial lubricants, cutting fluids and line marking systems are used by engineers across the globe in the industrial, food processing, metalworking, aerospace, site safety and heavy industry sectors.

Part of ITW, a multinational, US-owned, Fortune 150 company, ROCOL is one of four teams within the ITW Fluids Europe division that Ellen will be responsible for in her new role.

Ellen brings a wealth of digital transformation experience to the business from her time at Leeds Building Society, where she took an underutilised online platform and turned it around to deliver continual service to users with no drop off during the Covid-19 pandemic.Before this, Ellen spent 12 years at Minster Law. It was here that she headed up the team that made Minster Law the first personal injury law firm to have a chatbot as the first point of contact for potential clients.
At ROCOL, Ellen will be working with her teams to ensure that the customer is at the heart of everything the business is doing. She will also be looking at existing systems to see how they can be best used to serve customers.

Ellen says, “I have been impressed with the ambition within the business and the dedication to doing the right thing for customers. The opportunity that I have been given by Andrew is one that I couldn’t turn down. I’m excited to pull the teams together and use customer focus as the thing that binds us all. Whilst there is deep heritage in the brand, which is exciting, it shouldn’t inhibit us from moving forward and helping the business claim an even bigger market share. I’m very excited for what the future holds.”

Commercial Director Andrew Hemingway says, “Ellen brings with her a proven track record of digital transformation not only from her time with Leeds Building Society but also from her work with other large corporations. From the moment we met, I have been impressed with her drive and positive attitude.

“ROCOL is renowned for delivering excellent service to customers, but we are determined not to rest on our laurels as we know there is always more that we can do. Ellen will help us move forward in these areas and help foster a sense of unity across the four Fluids Europe businesses.”

Castoldi wins momentous Maldives ferry contract

Wednesday, 30th March 2022

Castoldi has won a momentous contract to supply waterjets for new ferries being built to substantially improve transport and infrastructure in the Maldives.

The contract will see over 164 Turbodrive 400 H.C. waterjets supplied to equip the new vessels being built by UAE shipyard giant Gulf Craft at its Maldives Shipyard. Under instruction of the Maldives President, Ibrahim Mohamed Solih, in a move to vastly improve the local transportation.

“We are proud to be part of such a major project that will make a tremendous difference to the transport and infrastructure throughout the Maldives,” said Giacomo Castoldi, owner, of Castoldi.

“Gulf Craft Maldives was founded 20 years ago to provide world-class ferry boats to transport the people of Maldives. The same remains until today and will continue to be part of the shipyard.” said Terry Stamatakos, General Manager of Gulf Craft Maldives. He added: “We worked closely with Castoldi as our strategic partner to deliver the Touring 51 ferries to the government and their performance exceeded expectations, thanks to their Turbodrive 400 HC waterjets.”

Reliable propulsion
The waterjet that Castoldi is supplying for the Maldives ferries, the Turbodrive 400 H.C., is known for its reliability and performance. It was the same waterjet chosen to equip the 80 interceptor boats of the Indian Navy, which have successfully been in operation since 2013.

“The Turbodrive 400 H.C. Waterjet is the perfect choice for these vessels, designed to be lighter with integrated gearbox and ideally suited to the varying conditions of the Maldives, operating perfectly in shallow sandy water conditions and with optimum speed and control during the voyage,” said Mr Castoldi.

Renowned for its impressive performance, the Turbodrive 400 H.C. is installed worldwide on various types of commercial, military and pleasure vessels. The jet is a compact and versatile marine propulsion system providing excellent towing power, cavitation resistance and great efficiency at high speed. It can also be equipped with Castoldi’s innovative Clear-Duct unclogging system and controlled by the ACES Electronic Control System.

The integrated Castoldi gearbox is very light and simple as it is contained in the waterjet housing. Therefore, offering one of the most efficient light weight propulsion systems available on the market today.

Ground-breaking ferries
When completed, the fleet of Gulf Craft Touring 51 ferries will be operated by Maldives Transport and Contracting Company (MTCC) and will act like a system of public buses, taking the locals from island to island and creating a seamless transport network.

The first four vessels for the Maldives Raajje Transport Link (RTL) network were officially handed over by Gulf Craft to MTCC in January 2022. They are currently undergoing route and schedule testing at HDh Atoll before ferry services officially begin.

Gulf Craft is marking 20 years of its operation in the Maldives, which has played a pivotal role in developing the marine transportation network of the island nation. The shipyard provides almost 80% of the Maldives’s water transportation services which includes public transport, coast guard, emergency & ambulance services, resorts and leisure boats.

Gulf Craft is now developing a new production facility dedicated to the manufacturing of vessels for use in the Indian Ocean which will see its operations and production capacity double within 16 months.

Enter the LEEA Awards 2022

Wednesday, 30th March 2022

The LEEA Awards is a great opportunity to give your company and colleagues the recognition they deserve. Winners will be announced during the ‘party of the year’ at the LEEA Awards Ceremony, which will be held at P&J Live in Aberdeen on the evening of 5 October 2022 – Day One of LiftEx.

Why enter an award?

In addition to being recognised as among the best companies in the industry by fellow members and customers, successful entrants will receive valuable editorial coverage in The Lifting Engineer publication, both in print and online.

You will raise your profile as a successful business leading in your award category, while also rewarding your teams and celebrating your achievements at the prestigious Awards Dinner.

Entries will gain endorsement from an independent panel of industry experts, and if chosen as a winner, you will receive the award directly from our special guest – who will be revealed soon. The award categories are as follows:

1. Best Accredited Training Scheme Member
2. **Best Contribution to GLAD 2022
3. Best Digital Innovation
4. Outstanding Apprentice
5. Rising Star
6. Craig Morelli Award – Accredited Training Scheme – Best Trainer
7. Kevin Holmes Award – Excellence in People Development
8. **LEEA Member of the Year
9. **LEEA CEO’s Award
10. **Robert Gordon University Engineering Award
11. **Stuart Everitt Award for Outstanding Contributions to LEEA

**These awards are not open for nominations. Winners will be selected by a LEEA /Member panel.

Making your application for LEEA Awards could not be easier. To reach the registration page, visit: https://awards.leeaint.com/. You’ll find advice and guidance how to open your account and start making your nominations. The portal enables you to track your entries and save them to add to and submit later.

You can also add a supporting document, in a PDF format, to back up your statement. Once submitted, you will receive a reference number and the option to print your entry for your records. You can apply for multiple categories if you wish.

The nomination portal will close at 23:59 on Monday 1 August 2022.

Glasdon Announces Goal to Reach Net Zero by 2035

Wednesday, 23rd March 2022

Leading UK manufacturer Glasdon have announced their pledge to reach Net Zero by 2035 with Scope 1 and 2 emission targets to be achieved by 2025.

The Glasdon Group of Companies aim to demonstrate environmental sustainability and champion social responsibility in every way possible. A passion for the environment and supporting local and wider communities has inspired the business to integrate sustainable and ethical practices into their day-to-day activities, something they are continually assessing and improving.

Over the years, Glasdon, who specialise in Marine life-saving equipment have invested considerable resources into understanding their impact on the environment. This has resulted in many improvements to buildings and working practices.

Glasdon Group Founder and Chairman, Donald J Sidebottom MBE, FCIHT, said:

“As a market leader in our field, we understand the responsibility we have to improve our environmental and social impact, and our Net Zero goals are a huge factor towards achieving this. We have work to do to reach Net Zero, but with the right dedication and experience we are confident that we will hit our 2035 target.

We welcome the challenge and look forward to sharing our responsible business journey along the way!”

Committing to reaching Net Zero is something that has and will impact on all areas of the business, including premises, supply chain, business processes, distribution and more. Continuing to work alongside employees, customers, and suppliers, Glasdon aim to lead the way in seizing every opportunity to drive down emissions and hit their goal of reaching Net Zero by 2035.

Glasdon are also inviting readers to subscribe to their newsletter and in exchange they will pledge to plant a tree on their behalf. Learn more about the Glasdon Net Zero pledge and how to their new tree planting initiative here: https://uk.glasdon.com/

Rotec Deliver Vessel Overhaul at A&P Falmouth

Tuesday, 22nd March 2022

Rotec's Electrical Mechanical Services team have recently carried out significant maintenance and overhaul works on the vessel Norbay at A&P Falmouth.

Originally built in Rotterdam in 1994, Norbay and her sister Norbank were two of the first of a new generation of ‘super freighters’. The vessel is currently used as a car, passenger and freight ferry in the Irish Sea for P&O Ferries.

Specialists in alternators and generators, Rotec’s Electrical Mechanical engineers have completed a significant overhaul project on the vessel Norbay, on-site at A&P Falmouth. The work included:

On-site Aft Bow Thrust Overhaul inc. internal inspection, replacement bearings, rebuild, testing and full works report
Port Alternator Clean and Bearing Change
Main Vehicle Deck Aft Cargo Fan Overhaul inc. collection from dockside to Rotec workshop inspection, steam clean, re varnish, new bearings, dynamic balancing, testing and reinstall
Cargo Fans motors overhaul.

The work carried out will ensure the continued performance and availability of the vessel. Greg Sandy, Business Development Manager and part of Rotec’s Electrical mechanical Services team said:

“Rotec are proud of their strong relationship and partnership with A&P Group in Falmouth, which sees us providing quality services and solutions.

“Our extensive range of services and products, combined with the experience and knowledge of our technical team has given us the well-deserved reputation for being a trusted provider of quality Electrical Mechanical Services.”

Rotec have been trading for over 30 years and take pride in delivering project-specific solutions, sustainable results and added value to their clients.

3000T jack-up barge arrives at HMNB Portsmouth

Monday, 21st March 2022

OverWater (part of The SMS Group), with a permanent presence on HM Naval Base Portsmouth, has won a significant contract to support KBS Maritime with the operation and maintenance of a new, state-of-the-art 3000T jack-up barge called the ‘Typhoon 3000’.

The SMS Group, specialise in dry dock vessel and ship repair.

OverWater will be working to commercialise the asset, via commercial charters, when it’s not required within HMNB Portsmouth.

The Typhoon 3000 is a Ravestein platform of the following dimensions: 60m LOA, 28m beam, 800T on deck crawler crane capacity, 3000T lift capacity, with 52m spud legs.

It is an extremely capable multi-role semi-submersible jack-up barge which can also be utilised as a dry dock, lift platform or transport barge.

The asset has numerous commercial marine applications and will be homeported in the Solent.

Dave Chaffers, General Manager for The SMS Group, said: “The principal purpose of the barge is to obviously support the RN, but by working in close partnership with the various stakeholders we look forward to commercialising the jack-up not only within the Solent but also within UK and European waters.

“She offers immense capability to the marine civils, dry dock, and commercial refit and repair markets; not to mention the heavy lift, and ports and harbours sectors.

“As a jack-up she’s definitely a ‘premium’ solution and tremendously capable.”

Chris Norman, the Managing Director of The SMS Group, said: “The jack-up barge is a unique piece of kit, but perhaps more importantly our commercial offering is somewhat unique too.

“Not only can we now support programmes of work which involve either heavy lift or dry dock operations, we can obviously support the works to be undertaken onboard the platform.

“Our core engineering capability is now fully mobile. This places us uniquely in the market, with a turn-key technical and engineering solution very much available to civil, defence, and commercial customers alike.”

Mr Chaffers added: “The Typhoon 3000 give us ship lift capacity, in the Solent, up to 3000T.

“It also gives us the ability to move the platform, as required, to any one of our eight sites.

“This capability is unrivalled in the UK, and now available for charter via OverWater – our focus now is on managed, turn-key, engineering solutions.”

KBS Maritime is a joint venture between infrastructure asset management and services provider KBR and BAE Systems.

It delivers ambitious, modern and enduring change to the Portsmouth base infrastructure and provides world-leading fleet support for the Royal Navy and the UK.

New marine sensing and monitoring instruments introduced at Oceanology International

Monday, 21st March 2022

New marine sensing and monitoring instruments introduced at Oceanology International

new Bathy2 – an enhanced, robust integrated instrument to provide reliable and accurate density corrected depth data up to 6000m
new miniIPS2 and uvSVX – with unique interchangeable pressure heads, these next-gen sensors benefit users who work at different depths
new SWiFT CTD and SWiFT CTDplus – designed for a seamless workflow, these user-friendly profilers deliver improved accuracy and versatility to those requiring CTD measurements

A ‘must see’ for visitors to Oceanology International was the showing of Valeport’s new Bathy2, an exciting evolution in the collection of bathymetric data, which was on the Valeport stand ahead of its formal release later this year.

Also in the spotlight on the environmental sensors manufacturer’s stand, were four innovative instruments designed with ease of use at their core, where a much improved user experience is now available alongside the highest quality, precise data.

As high-tech oceanographic equipment goes, the Bathy2 is designed to meet customer bathymetric requirements for a reliable, accurate and robust instrument with more functionality to suit specific operations up to 6000m in depth. An enhancement of the popular Midas BathyPack, the new Bathy2 uses state-of-the art sensors to generate Sound Velocity and Density profiles for precision depth and height data.

This evolution brings together the benefits of density-corrected output directly from one instrument, alongside the flexibility of third-party pressure sensor input and Valeport interchangeable pressure modules to allow users enhanced accuracy at different depths.

Improving the user experience has been a key driver in the development of this superior bathymetric instrument and the addition of a dedicated data output for INS allows bathymetric data to be efficiently communicated directly with users’ own operational software. Other helpful benefits include the flexible pressure options using Valeport’s interchangeable pressure sensors, these field-swappable sensor heads make it easy for users to select the correct pressure for their working depth bringing benefits of exceptional reliability and a higher degree of accuracy.

Designed for surveyors requiring bathymetric data from ROVs, underwater vehicles or drop structures, Bathy2 also has an external pressure sensor input option for Digiquartz referencing. This comprehensive bathymetric package offers other useful parameters such as Altitude and Bathy2 interfaces with the Valeport VA500 altimeter and other popular third-party makes.

Data transfer is via Ethernet or RS232/RS485 interfaces and the Bathy2 Interpreter function via the Valeport Configure software allows data out on extra ports in industry standard formats, this facility also allows for an atmospheric pressure data input.

Valeport will launch the Bathy2 later this year

miniIPS2 – The smart miniIPS2 underwater pressure sensor with accuracy to 0.01%, offers a cost-effective solution to vehicle pilots who require highly accurate depth information in real time.

This innovative pressure sensor, with a unique interchangeable pressure module, allows the user to quickly and easily change the pressure transducers whilst in the field, with no tools required, to maximise operational specific depth requirements.

uvSVX – The compact uvSVX is designed for underwater vehicles where space is at a premium and it delivers calculated salinity and density data, along with SVP as standard. Like the miniIPS2 it also features field-swappable sensor heads, has a depth rating of 6000m and delivers 0.01% accuracy. The interchangeable pressure transducer, with integral calibration is easily changed in a couple of minutes without opening the instrument and is available in 10, 20, 30, 50, 100, 200, 300, 400 and 600bar variants.

SWiFT CTD and SWiFT CTDplus

The latest addition to Valeport’s popular SWiFT profiler family, the SWiFT CTD profiler provides enhanced accuracy and versatility for those requiring CTD measurements. The SWiFT CTD profiler delivers survey-grade sensor technology coupled with the convenience of Bluetooth® wireless technology, rechargeable battery and an integral GPS module to geo-locate each profile.
Using Valeport’s high accuracy sensor technology to combine sensors for multiple profiles in a single drop, the SWiFT CTD features a new fast response temperature probe and operates down to 500m as standard. With an operational battery life of up to five days and the convenience of charge via USB, the SWiFT CTD is intended for offshore, coastal, harbour and inland environmental and hydrographic survey use.
A CTDplus version is currently available with Turbidity at present and combines CTD measurements and Turbidity observations, in addition to providing computed Salinity, Density and Sound Velocity.

Guy Frankland, Valeport Head of Marketing commented: “Oi is a great opportunity for a proper get-together with the marine community. We’re delighted to be back at this long-established event and sharing our latest sensor innovations with our customers and industry contacts. We’re particularly looking forward to taking feedback on our Bathy2 instrument and its capacity to offer increased survey-grade performance, as well as getting Valeport’s unique range of interchangeable pressure sensors into the hands of potential users so they can get a real sense of the streamlining benefits they bring.”

Important partnership set to continue

Monday, 14th March 2022

Rotec Hydraulics Ltd are happy to announce that their long-standing partnership Somerset County Cricket Club (SCCC) will continue for at least another 12 months.

The two organisations can reveal that an extension to the existing sponsorship agreement has been signed, which will see Rotec continue as the Club’s Principal Royal London Cup Partner.

Rotec Hydraulics Ltd specialise in marine hydraulic power packs.

Investing in and supporting the local community is a keystone is Rotec’s ethos. The company, who recently sponsored the Bristol Children’s Hospital’s Grand Appeal charity, are delighted to have extended their contract at SCCC and support the club which is within walking distance of their head office and largest service centre in Taunton, Somerset.

The deal will once again see Rotec branding appear on the front of Somerset’s Royal London Cup matchday shirt, whilst their company logo will continue to feature prominently on the pitch covers at the Cooper Associates County Ground.

Following the extension of the partnership, Somerset CCC’s Commercial Director, Caroline Herbert said: “We are delighted to be working with Rotec again in 2022. Their name is synonymous with our 2019 Royal London Cup triumph at Lord’s in 2019 and we are hopeful that further success is on the horizon.

“Last year’s Royal London Cup saw a fresh new wave of talent make a name for themselves and this exciting and dynamic side reflects the nature of our relationship with Rotec.

“We have developed an outstanding working relationship with Paul Prouse and his team over the last few years, and we thank them for their continued support of the Club.”
Established in 1979 as a supplier of hydraulic hoses and couplings, Rotec Hydraulics has gone from strength to strength. The company is now one of the leading specialist providers of hydraulic, pneumatic and electrical mechanical products and engineering services to all industry sectors throughout the UK and internationally.

Paul Prouse, Rotec Managing Director said: “We are thrilled to be continuing our strong relationship with SCCC. Our head office is based within walking distance of the Cooper Associates County Ground and as loyal followers, we relish supporting the Club.

“Our business has seen real benefits over the years from our close working partnership, including the use of the Club’s fantastic facilities throughout the year and coverage we gain from the Royal London Cup.

“On the pitch we have an exciting and enthusiastic team whom we believe will do a brilliant job for the County this season and hopefully reward those on and off the pitch with the trophies they justly deserve.”

Igus energy chain developed to help generate environmentally friendly shore power

Friday, 11th March 2022

Igus energy chain developed to help generate environmentally friendly shore power.

The e-loop energy supply series which increases safety and reduces procurement and installation time has been expanded to suit static applications, including shore power supplies.

Shore power offers the provision of electrical power to a ship at berth so that its main and auxiliary engines can be shut down. Stricter guidelines are forcing ports to implement more environmentally friendly technologies and the Igus-Loop series allows not only the reduction of air pollution and noise but also minimises the vibration from vessels while at berth.

Igus developed the e-loop as an alternative to the service loop – a product with no defined bend radius and which, in worst case scenarios, can break. Another drawback to the service loop is that when it is serviced or repaired the complete system must be replaced since the cables are sealed into the system.

Justin Leonard, a UK Director of Igus, the global manufacturer of energy chain systems and polymer plain bearings, said: “The e-loop multi-axis energy supply system combines the advantages of a polymer energy change with a high-strength rope. The rope absorbs the tensile forces inside the chain and transmits them to the mounting brackets. This means that the cables remain completely free of strain.

“Due to its success, we recently expanded this e-loop series to include a version with crossbars across every second link. It is lightweight and cost-effective, withstands vibrations and shocks and is specifically developed for static applications such as shore power, enabling energy to be supplied from the mast to the power container. This saves on the fuel that would otherwise be used to power vessels while in port, dramatically reducing air pollution.”

The e-loop readychain system, harnessed by igus and tested with a Megger VLF Sinus 34kV, has been found to save the user almost 90% procurement and 68% assembly time. In addition, Igus has a guarantee of up to 36 months depending on the configuration of the e-loop, and when the machine and system reach the end of its service life, Igus can take it back and recycle it.

Igus now offers its energy chains with special connectors and cables as fully tested ready chains. The e-loop is also available with rollers and handle modules so that it can be easily moved at quay facilities. It guides cables safely at a defined bend radius and even withstands shocks and impacts.

Dales Marine Services Ltd celebrates the successful launch of a new vessel build in Aberdeen

Thursday, 10th March 2022

Dales Marine Services Ltd (Dales Marine), a leading UK Ship repair & maintenance company, celebrates the launch of its new vessel in Aberdeen harbour.

In June 2021, Dales Marine Services Ltd secured a contract to fabricate a new multi-cat style vessel platform to support the Aquaculture sector. Build of the new vessel, named the Réalt na Farraige, commenced in July 2021.

Réalt na Farraige was lowered into the water for the first time on the 5th March 2022 at the Dales Marine’s facilities in Aberdeen, with quayside support services provided by Whytes Crane Hire and McIntosh Plant Hire.

The Dales Marine’s Aberdeen dry dock last saw a new vessel build over 33 years ago when Hall Russell operated the dock.

The launch of the Réalt na Farraige is a monumental occasion and represents a significant project for Dales Marine. It has delivered several firsts for the business, including the first vessel they’ve built and the first vessel to be built in Aberdeen for a long time.

The vessel’s initial sea-water launch marks the completion of over eight months’ work by the Dales team. Over thirty technicians and engineers, with trades including platers, welders, electrical engineers, and hydraulic engineers, have been utilised in the build. The project has also involved Dales Marine’s Aberdeen-based apprentices. Gary Norrie, Project Manager, has overseen the complete project, including managing the build process and the vessel’s launch, and will oversee both the harbour and sea trials and the client handover.

“Today is a very proud moment for myself and my team here at Dales Marine. I have worked for Dales Marine Services Ltd for the last 14 years, and today has to be the most memorable of all those years. It has been a test for each and every one of us during the build over the last 8 – 9 months. From the day the first flat steel plate was brought into our workshop to the last brushstroke of paint applied, it has been a challenge and an exciting one for us all. The experience and skill utilised on this build by the team have been second to none.” Said Garry Norrie, Project Manager at Dales Marine Services.

Gary continued: “Today marks a memorable milestone in Scottish shipbuilding history; the Réalt na Farraige is the first built vessel here at Dales Marine Services Ltd and the first vessel launched here at this shipyard in over 33 years. Exciting times lie ahead at Dales Marine Shipyard in the shipbuilding industry. I want to thank our skilled team that helped make this project become a reality and get us to where we are today and also a special thanks to McIntosh Plant Hire & Whytes Cranes for the assistance with today’s launch.”

After entering the water, Réalt na Farraige was moored in its final berth before she completes her harbour and sea trials, following which she will sail, to the Dales Marine site in Greenock for the final handover to the client.

“The Réalt na Farraige build has been an exciting opportunity for Dales Marine Services Ltd. The company is renowned for its expertise and experience in vessel engineering and repurposing vessels. This project has been a fantastic opportunity to showcase the Dales Marine’s skills that have been required to build this new multi-cat style vessel. It has been a great privilege to be part of this project. The vessel is a testament to the outstanding work undertaken to complete the build within an eight-month window.” said Michael Milne, CEO, Dales Marine Services.

Month: March 2022

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