VANGUARD MUSSEL HARVESTER
Noise reducing and energy efficient hydraulics for the Vanguard.
Noise reducing and energy efficient hydraulics for MACLAB’s Vanguard.
FPS were commissioned to supply and install a purpose-built hydraulic system which included a 185kW engine driven pump set, 1600L hydraulic oil reservoir, all required valving for the five double winch davits, bow thruster, anchor winch, 30kW water pump, crane, all the deck machinery, the heat transfer system and 740 meters of pipe and tube work. All components, where necessary, were supplied in stainless steel versions that FPS have designed and manufactured over the years specifically to withstand the harsh marine environment. The twin rudder, twin engine, and three speed steering system was also part of FPS’s supply.
All components were designed and built in FPS’s Port Nelson workshop, then delivered and installed by a team of FPS’s hydraulic engineers in Q-West’s premises in Whanganui.
250hp custom built, hydraulic power unit.
On board deck machinery on the Vanguard.
Control valve arrangement for on-deck davits.
FPS custom built marinised hydraulic control lever.
FPS hydraulic marinised controls.
Hydraulic control valve block.
On board deck machinery on the Vanguard.
Steering hydraulics and air compressor.
INCREASED ENERGY EFFICIENCY AND LONGER COMPONENT LIFE
FPS are always looking for ways to increase energy efficiency and component life, and minimise the disruption of hydraulic systems. To reduce fuel consumption, FPS used load sensing technology to run the davits, bow thruster and anchor winch. The fuel-conscious system saves fuel usage by working the hydraulics ‘on-demand’ only. FPS also specially designed and installed isolating rubber bulk-head penetrations to keep the pipe and tube work separate from the hull, reducing vibrations and hull noise.
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FPS’s lead engineer on the project, Owen Little said the professionalism of Q-West was second to none.
“Their high-quality manufacturing and exceptional project management saw the hydraulic fit-out run smoothly and efficiently.”
Owen is sure MacLab will be more than happy with their new performance-driven vessel and look forward to seeing it operating across the top of the South Island.
— Owen Little, Project Lead, FPS