Aristocat gantry hydraulic system gets an FPS uplift

FPS was tasked with giving the gantry hydraulic system on the Aristocat mussel harvester a complete upgrade and refit. 

This was a complex and collaborative project. FPS worked closely with the customer, as well as Oceantech naval architects and Port Nelson-based Anchor Engineering, to deliver on the customer’s vision and expectations for a more reliable and efficient hydraulic system that was both operator-friendly and – crucially – met high safety standards.  

All existing gantry gear, including the control system, was removed from the vessel and delivered to FPS’ Port Nelson workshop. FPS Director and Hydraulic Design Engineer Gary Allen provided innovative design input, designing a system with multiple operating points to drive the gantry’s walkie wheels with control at both high and low speeds. The new valving was also hard-tubed in stainless steel to reduce harsh wear and tear from the marine environment. 

FPS then fitted the new system back onto the vessel, which has been operating as expected and trouble-free!

The Aristocat’s old gantry hydraulic system before the FPS removed it from the vessel: