initial online research is usually very helpful. Following-up on this, ACE demonstrates additional technical competence and personal expertise through its customer service. In this case Ralf Küppers, the sales engineer
responsible for the Benelux region, was the contact. “We particularly enjoy providing on- site support, where we can get a firsthand understanding of the requirements,” he explained. “Then we can calculate precise specifications and either find a perfectly matching solution from the catalog or modify a product to make it a perfect fit.” For onboard use, Küppers recommended a
product family that impresses with its high quality and long service life in linear motion control: the hydraulic dampers of the HBS product family which offer damping in either one or in both directions. As closed systems, they are designed ready for installation and are maintenance-free, ensuring a high level of operational convenience. Most importantly, unlike the products previously used in this case, they are adjustable. These feature a control segment on the piston that makes tuning of the end positions very easy. In addition, a wide selection of mounting components also simplifies installation and ensures universal applicability. Due to the large width of the aluminium hatch,
Needing an alternative that would also be saltwater-resistant to offer maximum corrosion protection, the Yachtsupport team turned to ACE, which is one of the expert brands of the Stabilus Group of companies.
The first point of contact for potential ACE customers is usually a comprehensive online catalogue with thousands of options related to automation and vibration control, as well as safety products and motion control. Thanks to intelligent search functions, this kind of
four hydraulic dampers were needed, one on each side and two in the centre of the hatch. The HBS-35-150 model offers a stroke of 167mm and is suitable for a maximum compressive force of 7,500 N. The HB-28-100 type is used as well, featuring a stroke of 100mm and a maximum compressive force of 3,000 N. All components installed are designed in a slim gas spring design and feature piston rods with a wear-resistant surface coating, ensuring robustness and durability.
Corrosion protection is particularly important for products intended for marine use. Küppers explained that the hydraulic dampers are also available in stainless steel V4A type. This is a high-alloy, rust-resistant, stainless steel characterised by its exceptionally high corrosion resistance. The abbreviation originally derives from the test term ‘Versuch 4 Austenit’, meaning the experimental melt number 4 of austenite steel and is commonly used to refer to a group of chromium-nickel steels alloyed with molybdenum – specifically, steels 1.4401, 1.4404, and 1.4571. The addition of molybdenum makes it more
resistant to aggressive environments such as saltwater or chemicals and it is frequently used in the shipping industry. The austenitic steel of the V2A type, on the other hand, is not saltwater resistant and is suitable for indoor use in maritime applications. Commenting on the use of the ACE dampers, Bruinekool said: “We received a customised solution that we could precisely adjust to the hatch weight; and we can also be sure that the hydraulic dampers will withstand long periods at sea without rusting.”
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