High demands on the second-largest sea lock in the world

The operators of the Wilhelmshaven sea lock, rely on energy chain systems by igus

For operation of key structures, such as locks and bridges, absolute reliability in difficult environmental conditions is crucial. igus energy supply systems have been proving their reliability day in, day out, for many years.  This also applies to the sea lock in Wilhelmshaven, Germany. In the world's second-largest sea lock, igus energy supply systems have been used for more than ten years. Here, it is important to meet special challenges, such as the exposed sea location, requirements regarding dyke protection and a reliable 24-hour continuous operation.

Profile

  • What was needed: energy chain type 4040RHD
  • Requirements: continuous operation 24 hours a day, seawater-resistant energy supply wanted
  • Industry: lock
  • Success for the customer: minimal operation and maintenance, even after more than ten years of use

Problem

The Wilhelmshaven sea lock, Germany - the second-largest sea lock in the world - is a double lock with 390m chamber length and a width of 60m. It constitutes the only access to the inner harbour of Wilhelmshaven, which is watered and drained only via this lock.
Sometimes, even the navy depends on the lock being ready day and night. The high logistical significance and the associated 24-hour operation result in highest requirements for system availability. 
In detail, it was crucial to ensure a consistent energy supply for the four lock gates.  In addition to the high system availability, new  requirements arise due to the location, which is particularly exposed to maritime climate. Situated directly on the sea, an energy supply has to be extremely seawater-resistant.  As the construction is located in the sea dyke, requirements for dyke protection have to be fulfilled as well. Both requirements together constitute extremely high demands on the operational reliability of the lock.
e-chain® E4/4 system

Solution

The operators opted for an igus e-chain as their energy supply solution. The entire system consists of a stainless steel trough, in which the 4040RHD energy chain lies. This is a very rugged chain, which is resistant to sea water, oil and UV rays. The travel of the energy chain is about 65 metres and the whole chain is consistently equipped with rollers to reduce friction and keep the push/pull forces low. A floating moving end of the energy supply system continues to serve as a compensator for lateral misalignment. It can compensate for a clearance of about +/- 50mm to the right and left and is guided through the trough, so that the chain is always in line with it. The energy chain consists of chainflex cables by igus, also resistant to sea water and UV rays and especially designed for continuous flexing in the chain.
chainflex® cables
"After ten years of operation, we can say that we have had very good experiences with the product. Particularly in terms of durability. Operation and maintenance are kept to a minimum. We content ourselves with a visual inspection, and so far its operation has been outstanding." "
 
Dirk Eickmeyer, Wasser- und Schifffahrtsamt (Water and Shipping Authority) Wihelmshaven

The structure

History, function and requirements

Interview with Dirk Eickmeyer,

Wasser- und Schifffahrtsamt (Water and Shipping Authority) Wilhelmshaven

The energy supply system

Components, properties and advantages

Sea lock, Wilhelmshaven, Germany