Future-proof lock gates in Helmond
The lock in Helmond was in need of renovation. Commissioned by Van den Biggelaar Grond- en Waterbouw B.V., we designed and manufactured six new steel lock gates, each 12 meters high and weighing 35 tons. Four were installed in the lock and two were kept as spares.
Design with a focus on sustainability and strength
During the design and tender phase, we contributed ideas for a structurally optimized design with regard to fatigue. Instead of making the doors heavier and thicker, we opted for a slimmer and more efficient design. By strategically removing material and making the construction flexible, we limit the influence of material fatigue. This results in a lighter but more sustainable design that performs better under varying loads.
Triangular collaboration: design, engineering, and calculations
For this project, we worked closely with our client and our partners PT Structural Design and Analysis B.V. and Vroegh-edc B.V. In this triangular collaboration, we took on the role of Technical Management. PT Structural provided the detailed calculations, using advanced FEM analyses to accurately determine forces, stresses, and fatigue. This solid technical foundation formed the basis for an innovative and well-thought-out design, which enabled us, together with the client, to win the tender.
PT Structural and Vroegh-edc worked together to develop the design in DO and UO, and Vroegh-edc also provided detailed working drawings. In close consultation with the workshop, the optimal sequence of welding and machining operations was determined to ensure a smooth construction process.
In-house manufacturing
We carried out the entire production process in-house: from sawing, milling, and cutting the steel to assembling and welding. A temporary crane installation was set up on our site to enable the doors to be rotated during construction. The doors were then transported to the quay by our own truck under special transport supervision and from there transported by water to the preservation company.
Installation in Helmond
During the closure of the lock complex, the new doors were carefully installed by Van den Biggelaar in collaboration with our installation staff.
The result is a future-proof lock with modern, low-maintenance steel doors that meet today’s high standards in terms of strength, durability, and reliability.
Project partners:
• Van den Biggelaar Grond- en Waterbouw B.V.
• PT Structural Design en Analysis B.V.
• Vroegh-edc B.V.
Articles have been published about this wonderful project:
and
https://www.waterbouwers.nl/nieuws/samen-sterk-voor-nieuwe-sluisdeuren-in-helmond
• Design of a lighter, structurally optimized lock gate
• Technical management
• Coordination of drawings and strength calculations via specialized partners
• Manufacture of 6 steel lock gates in-house
• Coordination of on-site installation
