RNLI Tamar Class Lifeboat Mast Structures

Sector: Marine

Services Provided:

• • Fabrication
  • Welding
  • Turnkey Solutions

Technical Capabilities:

• • Welding (Aluminium)
  • Manual Machining
  • Fabrication
  • Heat Treatment

Scope:  GMD Have a long standing relationship with the Royal National Lifeboat Institution (RNLI) who are based in Poole, Dorset. We were approached by the RNLI as they were having trouble sourcing the mast structures for their Tamar Class boats. The structures have to be precisely manufactured in order to match up to existing mounting points on the boat. The structures are manufactured from 6082T6 Aluminium on custom jigs that we have designed and made. The technical obstacle with welding Aluminium is the heat treatment condition (T6) is completely lost in the heat-affected zone of the weld, and strength is vastly compromised. We are aware and experienced in dealing with this, so we organise with our approved suppliers to have the entire structure heat treated back up to T6 after all welding is complete. This ensure they mast structure is as strong as possible, and ready for all the ocean can throw at it.

Duration: 2 weeks typical turnaround.