Lord Lieutenant Officially Opens New £4 Million Facility

Wednesday, 15th January 2025

A&B Richardson Engineering, a family run leader in custom die and tool manufacturing, proudly celebrated the grand opening of its new, state-of-the-art facility. The momentous occasion was marked by the presence of the Lord Lieutenant, who, alongside the Mayor of Dudley, Hilary Bills, conducted the official opening ceremony at their expansive new site located in Halesowen.

Acquired by Somers Forge in 2022 as part of a strategic expansion, A&B Richardson Engineering has experienced unprecedented growth over the past two years, underscoring its vital role in the manufacturing landscape. The £4 million investment in the new site, complete with new advanced CNC machinery, reflects the company’s commitment to meeting the evolving demands of the UK defence and aerospace sectors.

Producing the UK’s largest dies

The larger facility will enable A&B Richardson Engineering to continue producing the UK’s largest dies and critical machined components while also providing space for growth in newer areas, such as welding development capabilities – a move that speaks volumes about their vision for innovation. This expansion enhances its ability to support Somers Forge’s capacity and strengthens its role within the defence supply chain.

During his speech at the ceremony, the Lord Lieutenant t took a moment to acknowledge Managing Director Andy Richardson and all those involved in orchestrating the successful acquisition. This collaboration brought together A&B Richardson Engineering, Somers Forge and Folke Holdings, exemplifying the strength and richness of heritage found within family run businesses operating in heavy engineering throughout the region.

Andy Richardson, Managing Director of A&B Richardson Engineering, said: “The opening was a celebration of the remarkable journey A&B Richardson has experienced over the past 20 years, starting with just myself working in a 500 sq ft unit, and growing into the Uk’s leading Tool & Die Manufacturer. We look forward to the continued growth and success this new facility will bring to both our team and the local community.

His Majesty’s Lord-Lieutenant of West Midlands Derrick Anderson CBE said: The scale and complexity of the parts being produced here at A&B Engineering are truly impressive. Its an inspiring example of how family run businesses can evolve to meet national manufacturing priorities.

Councillor Hilary Bills, Mayor of Dudley Borough, said: “It was a pleasure to visit A&B Richardson Engineering today and to officially open the new premises for this fantastic business. A&B Richardson Engineering manufactures vital parts for Britain’s aerospace and maritime industries. I was most impressed with the cutting-edge technologies that I saw today, and I think that this, once again, proves how our local businesses are at the forefront of industrial innovation.”

Associated Listing:

Marine Auction – Bidding Now Open (Closing 23rd Jan)

Thursday, 9th January 2025

MarineBid: Revolutionising Marine Asset Auctions

MarineBid is a leading online auction platform dedicated to the maritime industry, providing a reliable and efficient way to buy and sell marine assets. Established to streamline the process of liquidating surplus equipment, MarineBid connects sellers and buyers across the globe, ensuring fair market value through competitive bidding. With a focus on transparency and simplicity, the platform has become a trusted partner for various marine sectors, including shipbuilding, marine construction, ports, offshore services, and more.

Who Can Benefit from MarineBid?

MarineBid serves a diverse range of clients, including:

Shipbuilders and Shipyards
Marine Construction Firms
Port Authorities
Fleet Owners and Operators
Diving Service Providers
Financial Institutions
Insurance Companies

The platform is also open to individual buyers and the general public, making it an inclusive marketplace for anyone interested in marine-related assets. Whether you’re a commercial fleet operator looking to upgrade your equipment or an individual seeking to acquire surplus marine tools, MarineBid offers something for everyone.

Types of Assets Sold on MarineBid

MarineBid provides a broad spectrum of marine equipment and assets for auction, including:

Vessels: Fishing boats, tugs, workboats, and barges.
Marine Equipment: Engines, winches, anchors, and navigation systems.
Offshore Equipment: Cranes, oilfield tools, and diving equipment.
Port and Shipyard Tools: Forklifts, storage containers, and heavy-duty transport equipment.

The diversity of items available ensures that buyers can find exactly what they need, while sellers can reach a wide audience of interested bidders.

How MarineBid Works

The auction process on MarineBid is straightforward and user-friendly.

For Sellers:
- Sellers can list their surplus assets with detailed descriptions and photos.
- MarineBid’s experienced team assists in evaluating and setting the appropriate starting bids to maximise returns.
- Once listed, the assets are exposed to a global audience of potential buyers.
For Buyers:
- Buyers can browse available items and participate in auctions by placing bids.
- The platform provides real-time bidding updates, ensuring a competitive and transparent auction environment.
- Once the auction closes, the highest bidder secures the item, and the transaction is completed seamlessly.

Why Choose MarineBid?

MarineBid distinguishes itself with several key advantages:

Global Reach: The platform connects sellers and buyers from around the world, ensuring maximum visibility and competitive bidding for listed assets.
Industry Expertise: With a team that boasts generations of experience in marine auctions, MarineBid delivers exceptional service and expert valuation.
Transparency: The entire auction process is transparent, providing confidence to both buyers and sellers.
Ease of Use: MarineBid’s intuitive platform ensures a hassle-free experience for all users, from listing to bidding and final transaction.
Efficient Liquidation: By auctioning surplus equipment, sellers can quickly convert idle assets into working capital without the need for complex negotiations.

Upcoming Auctions and Events

MarineBid hosts regular auctions throughout the year, offering new opportunities to acquire high-quality marine assets. One of the highly anticipated events is scheduled for May 23, 2024, where a wide range of marine equipment will be available for bidding. This auction is expected to draw significant interest from across the industry, making it an ideal opportunity for buyers to secure valuable assets at competitive prices.

MarineBid’s Commitment to the Marine Industry

MarineBid is more than just an auction platform—it’s a partner to the maritime industry dedicated to facilitating efficient asset management. By providing a trusted and effective marketplace, MarineBid helps businesses optimise their operations, reduce waste, and improve financial liquidity. Their commitment to innovation and customer satisfaction ensures that they remain a leader in the marine auction sector.

Whether you’re looking to sell surplus marine equipment or acquire new assets at competitive prices, MarineBid offers a modern, transparent, and user-friendly solution. With its global reach, expert support, and robust auction process, MarineBid continues to revolutionise how the maritime industry buys and sells critical assets.

Visit MarineBid today to explore current listings or learn more about upcoming auctions.

LiftEx returns to Liverpool in 2025

Tuesday, 7th January 2025

LiftEx 2025 will take place in Liverpool on 18-19 November 2025 when it returns to the Exhibition Centre, located on the banks of the city’s world heritage waterfront – the gateway to one of the world’s most famous ports. This will mark the 20^th year of the annual flagship event of the Lifting Equipment Engineers Association (LEEA), the leading global representative body for all those involved in the land and marine Lifting Industry worldwide.

Suppliers of lifting and height safety equipment and services can’t afford to miss LiftEx. It gives exhibitors the chance to demonstrate their products in front of decision-makers and end users, present their company as a leading supplier in the Lifting Industry and align their brand with best practices and industry standards.

LiftEx is a platform focused on lifting matters, showcasing new materials, innovative ideas, better ways of doing things and the inclusion of modern technologies. It is the place to witness the latest technologies to improve productiveness and efficiency and learn about advancements in safety and industry best practices. There will be knowledge sharing and training through seminar sessions to gain vital lifting-related knowledge and insights, as well as an opportunity to meet LEEA members and discuss ways they can help achieve the best lifting practice.

The show attracts members of the land and marine Lifting Industry and end users from a wide range of vertical markets, including oil & gas, energy, offshore, road & maritime transport, construction, utilities, rail, renewable energy, civil engineering, entertainment, manufacturing and more. Lifting and rigging houses and safety regulators will also be among the visitors.

The bustling LiftEx 2024 held at Olympia in London in October 2024 had higher than ever visitor registrations and the event generated plenty of discussion and content ideas.

Well attended free training sessions and presentations were delivered at the LEEA Accredited Training Scheme (ATS) seminars, which were a key part of the visitor experience.

Ross Moloney, CEO of LEEA, said: “We are very excited that LiftEx will be celebrating its 20^th year in 2025 and that we it be doing so in the world famous city of Liverpool. Our show there in 2023 was an extremely popular and successful event and 2025 is sure to be jam-packed, so keep an eye out for features that will be announced over the coming months.”

Highlights from the 2024 show and news on what’s coming up in 2025 can be seen at leeaint.com, as well as LEEA’s YouTube channel and Instagram pages both named leea_int. Requests for stand space and sponsorship opportunities at LiftEx 2025 will be dealt with on a first-come, first-served basis, so please contact Leah Phelps on +44 20 3488 2865 or at enquiries@L2Events.com to secure a sponsorship package or a prime position at the exhibition.

DLM Receives JOSCAR Approval

Wednesday, 18th December 2024

Southampton-based DLM is a specialist in the design, manufacture, repair, and calibration of load cells, load testing, and cable working equipment for the offshore, renewable energy, marine, subsea, and lifting and rigging industries.

The product portfolio is already utilised in the military and defence sector, but JOSCAR approval further entrenches the business in this challenging marketplace.

Such recognition is only given to businesses that complete a detailed online application supported by evidence of the information provided. A thorough audit follows before approval is granted; DLM can now work with major defence contractors, such as BAE Systems, Atlas Elektronik, and Thales, in project hotbeds including the UK and Ireland, Netherlands, Spain, and Australia.

Martin Halford, managing director at DLM, said: “We have for many years sporadically supplied to the defence industry and have some products that have NATO [North Atlantic Treaty Organization] stock codes. However, it is part of our five-year strategic plan to undertake more work for the MOD and its contractors. In order to be able to serve this supply chain, you need to have JOSCAR approval. On certain contracts, registration is even a prerequisite.”

Load Testing Expertise for Military Applications.

Aerospace, defence, and security projects are often confidential, but it is expected that DLM will now be better positioned to offer its expertise in subsea load monitoring and deliver load pins and load cells to the point of use in new-build and other MOD applications. Many of the company’s standard products — tensile link load cells, for example — have already been utilised in aerospace projects led by the UK’s Royal Air Force (RAF) and British Army. Special external coatings and colourations are among common requirements.

Rigorous Standards

Halford added: “We already have the product portfolio, manufacturing capability, and expertise to provide for this industry — and have proven that where we have been contracted to date. However, JOSCAR establishes us in a supply network that must adhere to the most rigorous standards on earth. It’s clear that more investment is being put into this industry, for many years to come. Given our background in offshore, and the exacting standards applicable, we can offer this sector a great deal in the long-term.”

JOSCAR, designed to improve efficiency of both the supplier and buyer communities, adds to a myriad of other accreditations and certifications held by DLM. Aerospace, defence, and security buying decision makers will also note full membership in the Lifting Equipment Engineers Association (LEEA) and Associated Wire Rope Fabricators (AWRF), while many products are IC, CE, UKCA, and FCC approved. DLM is also ISO 9001, 14001, and 45001 certified.

Associated Listing:

Dacon Secures Agreement with FMV Worth 15 Million SEK

Tuesday, 10th December 2024

Dacon AS, a leading manufacturer and supplier of man-overboard rescue equipment, has signed a contract worth 15 million Swedish kronor with the Swedish Armed Forces. The agreement includes the delivery of climbing nets tailored for the navy’s ships, marking an important step in our collaboration with FMV and the Swedish Armed Forces.

The climbing nets to be delivered are designed with a focus on safety, durability, and functionality under demanding conditions. This life saving equipment meets stringent quality requirements and is adapted for naval operations to ensure effective use during military missions.

“We are very proud to have been chosen as the supplier of this critical safety equipment. This contract confirms our ability to deliver innovative solutions that meet the Armed Forces’ high standards,” says Kim Rene Vageskar, Division Manager at Dacon.

Deliveries will commence in the first quarter of 2025 and will also include training and education to ensure long-term reliability and operational readiness.

This agreement strengthens Dacon’s position as a trusted partner for the marine and defence sector and demonstrates our ability to adapt to specialised needs.

About Dacon AS

Dacon AS is a distinguished Norwegian company that specialises in the development and manufacturing of high-quality rescue and safety equipment. Established with a vision to provide innovative and reliable solutions for the safety of personnel in various industries, Dacon has become a key player in the fields of offshore, marine, and industrial safety. The company is renowned for its commitment to high standards, quality products, and customer satisfaction.

History and Expertise

Founded with the aim of enhancing safety protocols in hazardous environments, Dacon AS has evolved into a global leader in the rescue equipment market. Over the years, Dacon has developed a strong reputation for producing reliable, durable, and efficient rescue systems. With its expertise in the offshore, maritime, and industrial sectors, Dacon has positioned itself as a trusted partner for companies seeking safety solutions that meet the stringent requirements of regulatory authorities and operational safety standards.

Product Offering

Dacon AS specialises in the design and manufacturing of a wide range of rescue equipment, including:

Rescue and Evacuation Systems: Dacon is known for its comprehensive range of systems designed to safely evacuate personnel from offshore platforms, vessels, and industrial sites. These systems are essential in ensuring quick and efficient evacuations in emergencies.
Lifeboats and Rescue Boats: Dacon manufactures a variety of lifeboats and rescue boats that are designed to function under extreme conditions. These boats ensure that personnel can be safely evacuated from offshore installations and vessels in the event of an emergency.
Life-saving Appliances and Equipment: Dacon offers various life-saving products such as life jackets, survival suits, and other personal protective equipment (PPE). These are engineered to provide superior protection in life-threatening situations.
Marine Safety Equipment: Dacon provides a comprehensive range of marine safety equipment, including lifeboat launching systems, recovery equipment, and fire suppression systems. These are essential in protecting marine workers during offshore operations.
Training and Certification Services: Dacon offers specialised training programs to ensure that personnel are adequately trained to use their equipment effectively and safely. These training programs are designed to meet international safety standards and regulations.

Global Reach and Innovation

Dacon AS serves a global client base, including offshore oil and gas companies, shipping companies, and industrial facilities that require high-performance rescue and safety solutions. The company’s products are engineered to withstand the demanding conditions of offshore operations, including extreme weather, high seas, and hazardous environments. Dacon’s commitment to innovation ensures that it stays ahead of industry trends, continuously developing new solutions to improve safety standards.

The company collaborates closely with clients to tailor solutions that meet specific needs, ensuring that the rescue and evacuation systems are customised for different environments. Whether for offshore platforms, ships, or industrial plants, Dacon’s products are designed with functionality, safety, and durability in mind.

Commitment to Quality

Quality is at the core of Dacon’s philosophy. All of the company’s products are designed, tested, and manufactured to meet the highest international safety standards, including SOLAS (Safety of Life at Sea), ISO certifications, and other relevant maritime safety regulations. The company’s rigorous quality control processes ensure that every product performs reliably, even under the most challenging circumstances.

Associated Listing:

New managing of gas detection equipment – 34 Years Incident Free

Sunday, 1st December 2024

Columbia Ship Management has been using IM&M’s Meter Tracker system for over 20 years for its fleet of over 450 vessels. Columbia Management says, “The meter tracking system has proven to be anexcellent tool in maintaining the high standard of gas detection equipment that we demand. We require portable gas detection on board our vessels to be reliable and certified.

A significant benefit of the system is that International Mining and Marine Ltd (IM&M Ltd) monitors the process and lets us know when they are due for servicing, and we look for a suitable port to do the exchange.

Servicing

Organising how to meet the practicalities and legislative requirements of servicing and replacing portable gas detection equipment on a range of vessels can be a logistical nightmare and, in many cases, an expensive exercise. The benefits of using a unique system, tailor-made for this purpose, which allows ship management companies to make sure that calibrations are carried out while reducing the overall cost, moving from a variable cost to a fixed budget cost.

Usage of gas detection systems

Gas detection systems are used to ensure vessels’ operational safety and to identify a wide range of potential hazards not only for the health and safety of the ships and crew but also to meet increasingly stringent maritime legislation.

Fleet operators also have to ensure that the servicing, calibration and replacement of different types of monitoring equipment take place in ports where appropriate facilities may not exist or be provided at a significantly higher price than normal.

This situation can be exacerbated by the fact that ships may carry monitors from a range of different manufacturers, quite often this means that ships need to carry additional equipment to solve the logistical issues discussed above, resulting in even more equipment to monitor and calibrate.

There is a recent trend, however, to allow some of the tests to be performed by the ship’s crew, IM&M facilitate that they are properly trained and supported.

In addition, every so often, the gas monitors are required to be ‘landed’ at an authorised and competent technical service station for a shore-based service and calibration.

Solution – Meter Tracker

Meter Tracker is an all-encompassing, ongoing maintenance programme that has been specifically designed to solve these problems.

By utilising the ‘Meter Tracker system’, International Mining and Marine Limited (IM&M Ltd) can offer significant savings in both time and money while simplifying calibration procedures and meeting maritime legislation.

When a monitor is due for service, IM&M Ltd contacts the management company to ascertain the vessel’s next port of call. Identical, pre-calibrated and fully serviced gas detection instruments, together with the appropriate calibration gases, are then sent to the port to await the arrival of the vessel.

The instruments are then exchanged and, once returned to IM&M Ltd, are repaired, serviced or recalibrated as required and placed into stores awaiting the next vessel exchange. Managing Director Mark Westerman of IM&M Ltd claims that “Meter Tracker can revolutionise the way in which vessels manage their gas detection. It brings rewards to almost everyone involved in the process of handling gas monitors.

The benefits vary from company to company but, without doubt, ship management organisations are finding savings in both time and money as a result of less administration, fewer communications, minimal logistics planning and a reduction in negative vetting observations.”

For a free, no-obligation consultation about your gas detection requirements, please complete your details HERE, and we will contact you!

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Jenkins Marine Transports Princess Superyacht Mould

Wednesday, 27th November 2024

Princess Superyacht Mould

Jenkins Marine was commissioned to transport a large Super Yacht mould from Lee-on-Solent near Southampton to the Princess Yacht facility in Plymouth. Princess Yachts is a globally renowned luxury motor yacht manufacturer.

This was a highly complex operation. The 30m x 11m pontoon barge JML30 was towed to Southampton to coincide with the high tide using the powerful multicat Buffalo and twin screw tugboat Polmear.

Once at the designated site, the Super Yacht mould was loaded onto the pontoon barge from its road transport by a large, shore-based giant hydraulic lifting crane. The crane itself required pre-planned road closures to reach the site and wind speeds were monitored so as not to exceed a lower safety limit for the crane’s safe operation due to its extended operating height.

The versatile multicat Buffalo was chosen for transport due to its shallow draft, spud legs to hold position, and large cargo deck. It was able to position the pontoon barge JML30 close to the beach, directly in front of the crane at the optimum tidal moment. JML30 has a minimal draft of just 40cm, and buffalo just 120cm at the bow, meaning both vessels are ideally suited for getting very close to the shore for this type of operation.

The crane lifted the 28-ton mould carefully onto the pontoon, where it was quickly de-rigged and safely sea-fastened by the Jenkins Marine team. Once clear of the shore, the tugboat Polmear refastened to the barge and led the way for the tow along the south coast to Plymouth.

This was a multifaceted operation which was successfully completed within a single day. The many different parties involved worked together to achieve a smooth and successful operation.

About Jenkins Marine

Jenkins Marine Ltd owns, maintains, and manages a diverse and capable fleet of specialist vessels that includes experienced personnel to run and maintain them. With over 35 years of marine experience, we can supply multi-role vessels, dredgers, hopper barges, deck cargo barges, tugboats and workboats.

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Bartech named Marine Engineering Firm of the Year

Thursday, 21st November 2024

Bartech has been named Marine Engineering Firm of the Year at the 2024 Innovation & Excellence Awards. This achievement highlights Bartech’s commitment to delivering the highest-quality engineering solutions.

Bartech Marine Engineering

Bartech Marine Engineering Ltd. is a UK-based company specializing in diesel engine maintenance, repair, and servicing for the marine and offshore industries. With a history spanning over 25 years, Bartech Marine has earned a reputation as a trusted provider of expert engineering solutions, ensuring the reliable operation of critical equipment for a wide range of clients, including vessel owners, operators, and offshore platform managers.

Founded in 1997, Bartech Marine began its journey with a commitment to delivering exceptional service and technical expertise. Over the years, the company has expanded its capabilities to include not just maintenance and repair but also complete engine overhauls, component supply, and tailored engineering solutions. Their team of skilled engineers and technicians boasts extensive knowledge and hands-on experience with a variety of engine manufacturers, including MAK, Wärtsilä, and MAN, among others.

Bartech Marine’s services cover every aspect of diesel engine management, from diagnostics and preventative maintenance to troubleshooting and emergency repairs. They also provide comprehensive spare parts solutions, offering genuine, OEM, and reconditioned components to meet the diverse needs of their clients. Additionally, their in-house workshops are equipped to handle the reconditioning of engine components, ensuring top-quality results and cost-effective solutions.

The company prides itself on its customer-focused approach, ensuring that all projects are completed with minimal disruption to operations. Bartech Marine’s dedication to quality and reliability is further emphasized through their adherence to industry standards and accreditations, including ISO 9001:2015 certification.

Operating globally, Bartech Marine supports clients in the commercial marine, offshore, and energy sectors, delivering bespoke solutions tailored to the unique demands of each project. With their wealth of expertise and unwavering commitment to excellence, Bartech Marine continues to be a vital partner for companies seeking dependable engineering support in demanding environments.

For support with marine engine repairs, maintenance, or upgrades, Bartech’s award-winning service ensures operations run smoothly with minimal downtime.

Associated Listing:

DMAC Marine transports surveyors to “Tokyo Eagle” in Liverpool Dock

Tuesday, 19th November 2024

DMAC Marine, operators of the Steel Workboat Catamaran ‘Halcyon Days’ was tasked with transporting surveyors to conduct draught surveys on the bulk carrier “Tokyo Eagle” after it was loaded and before its departure.

This operation took place within the Liverpool Dock for Norton Scrap Company, collaborating with, Salvesen UK Ltd, and David Cross Ltd. Halcyon Days plays a crucial role in various projects on the north west of England.

We take pride in our partnerships with respected industry leaders such as Salvesen UK, Balfour Beatty, Cammell Laird, and Stena Line.

Halcyon Days, a versatile thirteen-meter steel workboat catamaran highly regarded for its sturdy construction and exceptional stability in demanding marine environments.

Perfect for transportation, research, and support duties in coastal and offshore operations, this vessel boasts advanced navigation and safety systems, seamlessly blending durability with cutting-edge technology.

Equipped with a spacious deck and customizable interior layout, the Halcyon Days is a dependable asset for maritime industries seeking top-notch performance and reliability in challenging conditions.

Associated Listing:

Performance Inflatables Acquires Flexi-Liner Corporation

Monday, 18th November 2024

Performance Inflatables Co. LLC, a portfolio company of Pinewell Capital, and Flexi-Liner Corporation jointly announced today the acquisition of Flexi-Liner Corporation by Performance Inflatables.

Flexi-Liner Corporation will be maintaining its location in Chino, California to continue to service the international tank lining and helium recovery markets with solutions including Chemical Tank Liners, Hypochlorite Tank Liners, Helium Recovery Bags and Surege Vessel Bladders.

Flexi-Liner has been a leader in innovative solutions to protect and refurbish tanks in a cost-effective manner while minimising downtime. “We are excited to join Performance Inflatables to continue to expand the customers we satisfy as part of a larger but very focused team said Tait Eyre, President Flexi-Liner Corporation.”

About Performance Inflatables

Performance Inflatables is a world leading manufacturer and provider of cutting-edge solutions to Commercial and Military customers based on high performance fabric technologies, creating highly engineered and innovative inflatable products for every environment from the Mariana Trench to Space.

The key operating companies of Subsalve USA, AEF and AERÉ Marine have globally recognised positions, including Buoyancy Solutions, Water Load Testing, Pneumatic Lifting, Agile Liquid Logistics Solutions, the Skirts for the US Fleet of Air Cushion Vehicles, High-Performance Inflatable/Deflatable Boat Fenders and other Docking Solutions.

“We are thrilled to have Flexi-Liner Corporation join our portfolio of companies” said Richard Heath CEO of Performance Inflatables. “Flexi-Liner’s focus on Customers, Quality, and Innovation fits perfectly with the culture of our company.

The addition of Tait and the entire Flexi-Liner Corporation staff to the existing team, with over 45 years of experience in related businesses, will unleash the ability to solve a broader set of difficult challenges and enhance our ability to deliver exceptional customer outcomes wherever they operate.

“We will continue to invest in and grow our capabilities at our North Kingstown RI, Picayune MS, Coral Springs FL and Chino CA sites.”

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Author: Chris

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