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BMT WBM developed waverider test rig
18-Oct-2009
Sydney Ports Corporation and Manly Hydraulics Laboratory operate numerous waverider buoys off the NSW east coast, in order to monitor wave heights and sea states for input to forecasting and shipping. These buoys require periodic calibration in a test rig which rotates at variable speed, whilst maintaining the upright orientation of the buoy, hence simulating the movement of the buoy at sea. The rigs at both sites had reached their service life, and BMT WBM was retained to design new test rigs including a fully automated control system and HMI. The design needed to allow for different buoy diameters and weights. BMT WBM’s scope included design, manufacturing inspections and QA, as well as installation and commissioning oversight. Two test rigs were manufactured and installed at the Sydney Ports Port Botany site, and Manly Hydraulics Laboratory, in August 2009. For further information contact Raymond Ho, Senior Engineer, BMT WBM Sydney office.