The future of maritime research: advancing cutting-edge facilities
The maritime industry is on the cusp of a true revolution thanks to developments in autonomous shipping. However, bringing technological innovation to its true potential requires rigorous examinations and state-of-the-art testing facilities. How do you build and maintain a large-scale facility, combining cutting-edge technology with meticulous expertise? Find out how the Maritime Research Center (MRC) in Ostend is beating the status quo and what our role is in ensuring its success!
Cutting-edge maritime testing: exploring the MRC’s advanced facility
To facilitate a controlled environment for testing ship models and simulating real-world sailing conditions, you need a cutting-edge facility. In May 2019, a new maritime research center opened in Ostend, with a new towing tank and a wave basin. This expansive basin measures 174 meters long, 20 meters wide, and 1 meter deep, with a capacity to hold 3,300,000 liters of water. In addition to this water level, waves with an amplitude of up to 20 cm can be generated. Constructing a basin of this size reduces scaling errors of test models and enables testing interactions between multiple ship models. This new basin also has observation windows and an observation tunnel to easily visualize the flow next to and beneath the ship model.
Besides its size, these new facilities also integrate the latest innovations, making it fully automated and enabling 24/7 testing. Moreover, it combines high-precision construction techniques, low-shrinkage materials, and designs that eliminate disruptive seams and joints. This results in no more than a 1mm deviation between any given point. The mechanism moving ship models have a precision of 0.25mm. Other than precision, the facilities have to be extremely durable. The finishing layer must withstand the considerable weight and movement of the equipment, flexible materials, and placed expansion joints to prevent cracking or deformation. According to calculations, the equipment should allow for at least 30 years of testing. So how does Verhaert On-site Consulting ensure smooth operation and maintenance of the center’s state-of-the-art tow tank facility?
Ensuring Continuity: Verhaert Consulting’s role in maintaining the MRC testing facility
Building the MRC testing facility is one thing, ensuring that it’ll remain operational at the highest standard is quite another. At Verhaert On-site Consulting, we understand the importance of quality and safety in maritime research. We work closely with the MRC to ensure regular monitoring of the tow tank’s concrete structure for subsidence.
Our consultants Gino Van Geyt, Jelle Van Assche, and Eling Delmasure, joined the Steunpunt Fysische Onderzoeksinfrastructuur (SPFO) team that physically supports all practical aspects concerning the research infrastructure. What does their work involve?
- Tow truck preparation and maintenance: Ensuring the tow truck, a critical equipment piece for moving ship models, is always in optimal condition.
- Rail maintenance: Maintaining the rails on which the tow truck operates with a precision of 0.25mm, is essential for accurate testing.
- Operational scheduling: Creating efficient schedules for testing and maintenance activities.
- Material and tool procurement: Sourcing the necessary materials and tools to keep the facility running smoothly.
- Workshop layout coordination: Collaborating with the MRC team to optimize the layout of the workshops.
- Pumping plant preparation: Preparing the pumping plant that controls the water levels in the tow tank.
- First test preparation: Ensuring the initial tests are conducted safely and efficiently.
In addition to our work at the MRC, we’re also supporting Project Raversijde, a unique research initiative that simulates storm conditions on a real sea dike. This project provides valuable data for understanding the impact of storms on coastal infrastructure and developing more effective coastal protection strategies. Stay tuned for future updates!
Upholding maritime excellence standards
The Maritime Research Center in Ostend represents a significant leap forward in the maritime testing field, combining advanced technology with meticulous expertise. Verhaert On-site Consulting plays a crucial role in ensuring the center’s operational excellence and longevity. From maintaining the tow truck and rail systems to managing efficient testing schedules and sourcing materials, our team is dedicated to upholding the highest quality and safety standards.
We’re excited to be part of the MRC’s ongoing challenges in pushing the boundaries of maritime research and development. We’re committed to providing the expertise and support needed to ensure the center’s continued success.