For its centenary in 2014, the Panama Canal Authority (PCA) decided to modernise and expand the historic waterway linking the Atlantic with the Pacific Ocean. Bosch Rexroth has been awarded a multiyear contract to manufacture the new hydraulic systems, which will ensure the canal’s uninterrupted operation.
The Panama Canal provides the shortest route for trade ships between the east and west coasts of North America. However, less than 40% of the world’s commercial fleet can make use of this shortcut because of its size.
The PCA plans to eliminate bottlenecks by enlarging the locks in place and building a third set of locks on both the Atlantic and Pacific ends. This will allow ships up to 366 metres long and 49 metres wide to pass through the canal. In addition to providing more space for the ships to move through, the new locks are also required to protect the region’s water regime, and are much larger than the old ones.
To resolve this issue, the three chambers will be connected to three water saving basins. To raise the ships, the Bosch Rexroth drives will open the corresponding sluices and the water from the basins will flow by gravity into the lock chamber. Unlike traditional lock designs, not all the water flows into the sea during the lowering cycle. Most of it moves into the water re-utilisation basins, saving about 290 million litres of water per lockage, and reducing fresh water consumption by 60%. This technologically demanding solution offers dual benefits: it is more economical and it protects the region’s resources.
A South Korean manufacturer is delivering the gates for the water saving basins; the conduits used to fill the lock chambers with water from Gatún Lake or from the adjacent chambers; and for the compensation gates between the lock’s chambers. A rolling gate is the central element here. These heavy steel structures regulate the flow of water as they are lowered or raised to stop the flow or allow water to pass. Bosch Rexroth has worked very closely with the manufacturer and is fitting 158 rolling gates with the required drives and control technology.
The first component shipments are set for April 2012. This is a target that Bosch Rexroth can meet thanks to its worldwide development and manufacturing capacities. In addition, Bosch Rexroth conforms to the standards adopted by the American Society of Mechanical Engineers. Bosch Rexroth’s contribution will guarantee a smooth flow of traffic on one of the world’s busiest waterways.
Hydroformed tube valve body for diaphragm valves
Hydraulic systems & components
One of the most common necessities for manufacturing pharmaceuticals, cosmetics, food and beverages are diaphragm valves. What used to be a dull two-way race between forged and cast body variants is now being challenged by an exciting, ground-breaking technology. The hydroformed, light-weight diaphragm tube valve body will change the way you think about plant design and operation.
Read more...Proportional cartridge valve series is the fastest in its class
Hydraulic systems & components
Parker Hannifin is introducing the enhanced version of the proportional cartridge throttle valve series, TFP. The new pilot valve further reduces the step response times by up to 30%, making the TFP the fastest valve in its class.
Read more...The six pillars of hydraulic system health Hydrasales
Hydraulic systems & components
Hydrasales, a leader in hydraulic and lube oil industry solutions, offers an extensive range of condition monitoring products designed to safeguard your systems. Here are six essential checks for hydraulic system health to keep your systems in optimal shape.
Read more...Hydraulic pumps deliver high flow, convenience and precision Bearing Man Group T/A BMG
Hydraulic systems & components
BMG’s range of high-performance hydraulic electric Enerpac E-pulse pumps is critical to all 700 bar operating hydraulic systems. These portable E-pulse pumps have intelligent auto-cycle functionality and an efficient power-to-weight ratio to ensure dependable operation and high productivity in challenging industrial applications.
Read more...Precision, control and performance in regulators and control valves Valve & Automation
Hydraulic systems & components
Cashco has long been a trusted name in industrial control solutions, offering a broad range of regulators and control valves designed to meet the rigorous demands of various industries.There are two key Cashco product lines, its regulators and the Ranger QCT control valve.
Read more...New-generation drill rig
Hydraulic systems & components
Epiroc is launching the new-generation PowerROC T35, offering both increased fuel efficiency and faster operations.
Read more...Electrohydraulic shredding
Hydraulic systems & components
Galvanised parts are among the last big challenges for recycling. ImpulsTec is implementing shockwave or electrohydraulic shredding technology, for the separation of complex material compounds in industrial processes.
Read more...Revealing the value of filtration Hydrasales
Hydraulic systems & components
The life and reliability of hydraulic systems are greatly affected by the presence of particulate contamination in the lubricant. However, in the face of potential contamination there is hope. The cleaner the fluid, the more reliable the system or process, and the longer the lifespan of its components.
Read more...Flat face and flat face screw couplings for mining
Hydraulic systems & components
Quick couplings are the critical connectors that keep mining systems running. Within the mining industry, the choice of coupling can significantly impact equipment performance, downtime, and maintenance costs. Stucchi offers flat face and flat face screw couplings that are designed to withstand mining’s unique challenges.
printer friendly version