INNOVATION July-August 2012

TheMaxi-Metric DUB-Swivel In 1996, DCD Design & Manufacturing developed the harsh environment swivel for horizontal directional drilling applications in North America to support this non-invasive, environmentally sound method of installing infrastructure for water, power and gas utilities. Mid 2011, the Maxi-Metric swivels were launched, specifically targeting open endmachine builders in Europe. The Maxi-DUB Swivels were benchmarked to provide design criteria for the new 250 metric tonne swivel. The new swivel was entirely developed in 3D CAD utilizing finite element analysis. Components were machined from heat- treated alloy steel for strength and wear resistance. The swivels were fitted with precision bearings for long life under high tensile and impact loads and incorporated DCD’s three stage sealing system. The first Maxi-Metrics were completed and shipped in December 2011. Professional involved: Ted Parker PEng.

Creek Realignment SweetCroft Engineering provided detailed design and construction support of early works site development and drainage, including a creek realignment, for a newmine in Northern Alberta. The creek (12 km 2 catchment area) was

relocated using a combination of unlined earth ditch (2,000 m) and gabion drop structures to safely convey the flow down the 10 m of elevation drop. The ditch conveys the creek’s flows up to a one in 100 year return period event (2 m 3 /s) with a design life of 10-15 years. The use of the unlined, flat sloped ditch with gabion drop structures minimized excavation volumes and the need to import expensive granular channel lining. The design minimizes erosion and maintains natural background water quality at the discharge. SweetCroft Engineering prepared detailed construction drawings and specifications, and provided full time quality assurance construction support. Construction of the ditch commenced in February 2012, and the channel was operational by April 2012. Professionals involved: Eric Sweet PEng, Nic Slivinski PEng, Deighen Blakely. Photo: D Blakely.

H935Multi-Mission Platform HERMES , the second aluminium-hull version of the Zodiac Hurricane H935 Multi-Mission Platform, has wrapped up sea trials. She is now in France, mating up to L’Adroit , a new 1,410 t Offshore Patrol Vessel. Together they will tour the world as a technologies demonstrator, operated by the French Navy. The H935 Multi-Mission Platform showcases numerous advancements in rigid-hulled inflatable boat (RHIB) technology. The patented MACH II (Military Air Channeled Hull II) hull design reduces resistance and enhances directional stability for increased speed, fuel economy and safety. The patent-pending hybrid collar allows for noticeably more deck space while preserving all of the traditional advantages of full air-collared RHIBs. In addition to the first two H935s with aluminium hulls, Zodiac Hurricane Technologies is under contract to supply 20 additional ultra lightweight E-Glass/ carbon composite versions. Project Manager and Chief Engineer: Morgan MacKay PEng (Zodiac Hurricane Technologies).

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