DuroWipers wins RNLI Severn class supply first
Tuesday, 6th October 2020
The RNLI has announced its life extension programme for the Severn class lifeboat and DuroWiper Class 60 pantographs are being tested on the prototype vessel.
“If the windscreen wipers perform well during trials, we will extend the order to the first batch of six boats in the programme,” said Nick Fenwick Severn Life Extension Project Manager.
Upgrade
This is the first time that the Severn Class will have a DuroWiper system fitted; but the RNLI’s Shannon class already has a DuroWiper system fitted, the Class 50, which has performed well.
“It is advantageous to rationalise supply, but this is not the main driver for selecting a supplier for new projects,” said Mr Fenwick.
“Maintainability and reducing maintenance are key criteria when selecting equipment along with cost, reliability, ruggedness, supplier confidence and any other relevant criteria, dependent on the equipment being supplied.”
Quality assurance
DuroWipers offers extended and lifetime warranties for its wiper systems which both the RNLI and the UK Royal Navy have taken advantage of.
“The DuroWipers come with a Lifetime Warranty which makes them maintenance free”, said Noel Gould, owner, DuroWipers.
“That’s how confident we are in the strength of our wipers. The wipers’ reputation speaks for itself.”
DuroWipers originally secured a contract to supply 57 RNLI vessels with wiper systems, including the new Shannon class lifeboats, back in 2012.
It has since gone on to supply over half of the subsequent newbuild Shannon lifeboats.
Severn Life Extension Programme
The RNLI says that the programme of upgrades will extend the life of its Severn class lifeboats so they can continue saving lives at sea for another 25 years.
The largest and most powerful class of lifeboat, the 42t Severn entered service back in 1996 and there are currently 44 of these lifesaving vessels in the charity’s fleet. They need an update as they’re nearing retirement age.
Through this life extension upgrade, the Severn’s wheelhouse will be completely redesigned and a wide range of upgrades will be made.
An allocation of six Severn class lifeboats will be upgraded initially, with the upgrades taking place at the RNLI’s All-weather Lifeboat Centre in Poole, Dorset.
Work is already underway on the first vessel to receive its life extension upgrade which should undergo sea trials at the end of the year.
Aberdeen Lifeboat Station is due to receive the first upgraded Severn by the end of 2021.
The average anticipated cost of each life extension upgrade is £1.25m – significantly less than the cost of designing and building a brand-new class of lifeboat to replace the Severn, but still expensive.
So, the RNLI has launched its “Save our Severns” appeal with the aim of raising £700,000 to help fund these vital upgrades to enable this magnificent class of lifeboat to continue saving lives at sea. To donate visit: RNLI.org/Severn25
DuroWiper Marine Windscreen Wipers
High-performance marine windscreen wipers stand as crucial components for boats and ships, particularly when navigating through adverse weather and heavy sea conditions. Engineered with cutting-edge technology and durable materials, these wipers play a pivotal role in ensuring clear visibility, thereby enhancing the safety and operational effectiveness of maritime vessels.
In challenging weather scenarios, such as heavy rain, stormy seas, or dense fog, maintaining a clear line of sight becomes paramount for the crew’s safety and navigation. High-performance marine wipers efficiently sweep away rain, salt spray, and other debris, preventing obstructed views that could lead to accidents or collisions. This is especially critical when vessels need to manoeuvre through crowded waters, evade obstacles, or respond to emergencies promptly.
The resilience of these wipers is a key feature, designed to endure the harsh marine environment characterized by corrosive saltwater and extreme weather conditions. Equipped with adjustable speeds, various blade options, and robust construction, these wipers ensure consistent and reliable performance even in the most challenging sea conditions. Ultimately, high-performance marine windscreen wipers contribute significantly to the overall safety and functionality of boats and ships, allowing them to navigate with confidence in the face of adverse weather and heavy seas.
