Problem: Our client - Centerport - was looking to repair or replace their Interislander gangway as the existing unit was in a state requiring a major structural and mechanical overhaul.
J&D McLennan were invited to tender for the work and were able to propose a cost effective new build solution to the client which when compared to the cost of the rebuild/repair work required to bring the existing gangway up to a satisfactory standard made sense.
Solution: The new gangway needed to inherit some of the physical characteristics of the old unit in order to ensure compatibility with the support fixtures and also boat operations. The new gangway was completely designed utilising 3D modelling software and all the machining was carried out in house using both our CNC and manual machine capabilities. We were able to make use of our aircraft passenger boarding bridge expertise to bring some new ideas and processes to the manufacturing cycle, including interior fit out details such as flooring, ramp and lighting. The exterior cladding was also an innovative area for this build. This consists of marine grade aluminium sheets which are fixed to the structural frame work of the gangway utilising a double sided structural adhesive tape system.
