NEW ON BOARD
Flexible design work useful in challenging maritime projects
by : MERJA KIHL AND ARI MONONEN
The Finnish engineering company Alvars Ltd . was founded in 2007 . For a decade already , the company ’ s core areas of expertise have included innovative design and R & D project services for the marine cluster .
” We often carry out challenging design projects for shipbuilders , e . g the shipyards in Turku and St . Nazaire – but we also engage in subcontracting projects ordered by the marine industry ,” says Mr . Mika Laiho , CEO for Alvars Ltd .
He notes that Alvars is specialised in large-scale glass structures in particular .
” Such demanding glass projects have included all-glass coverings on top decks of ships . For instance , the decorative glass structure installed in an outdoor area on an Oasis class cruiser was designed by us .”
Another structure was a sliding glass roof for a different cruise ship .
” The glass elements were designed to slide on steel railings , enabling the roof to be opened for an area of 300 square metres in total . Similar glass structures may be utilised to provide coverings for , say , swimming pools ,” Mr . Laiho recounts .
In this project , Alvars was responsible for detail design and structural analysis of the steel structure , as well as the glazing , outfitting , and interior design .
” Our resources provide efficient design services and solutions . We solve the structural concepts and design , do the math for the strength calculations , and carry out the engineering for the mechanics and operational principles – right through to 3D models and blueprints . Our partners in the field of machine workshops then manufacture the parts accordingly ,” Laiho explains the comprehensive process .
” With flexible configuration , even the main dimensions of the parts can be altered up until the final blueprints are about to be printed .”
Furthermore , Alvars Ltd . is experienced in designing solutions for lifting and securing in marine transport .
” It is important that sea cargo is secured properly and that its structures will not get transformed while they are being lifted onboard ,” Laiho emphasises . n
46 seatec 1 / 2017