IHC Merwede - the technology innovator

Press release - 21 March 2008

 

TIDAL TURBINE SHAFTSEAL BUILT BY IHC LAGERSMIT EXCEEDS EXPECTATIONS

 

Prototype - after running 4 years - maintenance free

IHC Lagersmit developed a special design of the SUPREME shaftseal for a tidal turbine in the Kval Sound fjord (near Hammerfest) in Norway. This tidal turbine was the first prototype. Now after 4 years this prototype has been subtracted from the fjord and now evaluation time has arrived. With overwhelming and confirming results: 2/2

IHC Lagersmit supplies sealing systems to the leading propulsion manufacturers, to ship yards and to ship owners. The company offers directly worldwide services with own service engineers or where applicable through local service stations.

Profile IHC Merwede

IHC Merwede is focused on the continuous development of its design and construction activities for the specialised shipbuilding sector, in particular the dredging and offshore industries.

IHC Merwede is world market leader in the construction of specialist dredging equipment and complex custom-built offshore vessels. The clients of IHC Merwede include major dredging companies, oil and gas exploration groups, offshore contractors and government authorities.

IHC Merwede has a staff of approximately 2,000 at its locations in Hardinxveld-Giessendam, Kinderdijk, Krimpen aan den IJssel, Sliedrecht, Apeldoorn, Delfgauw, Goes, Hendrik Ido Ambacht and Heusden. There are also branches in China, Houston (USA), India, the Middle East, Russia and Singapore.

Note for editors not for publication

For more information, please contact:

IHC Lagersmit B.V.

G. van Mourik
T:    +31 78 6910472   
info.ls@spam-preventionihcmerwede.com
www.ihcmerwede.com

- no exceeding of temperature of the lipseals

- no water ingress

- no signs of corrosion on the liner.

At the time the main goal was: to develop a sealing system which should be maintenance free for at least 3 years. During the 4 years of operation - and supplying electricity to the town of Hammerfest - the SUPREME grease lubricated shaftseal performed not only very well but beyond expectations.

IHC Lagersmit BV founded in 1856 and manufacturer of stern tube (thruster and Pod) sealing systems, is a subsidiary of IHC Merwede BV. IHC Lagersmit has a highly regarded reputation for high quality seals and innovative products. Two of the latest inventions are the tidal turbine seal and the SUPREME Ventus; both specially designed to IHC?s corporate contribution to protect the environment.

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