News

CDM inspired Hydrok ActuSlide developed

The Hydrok ActuSlide is a new, patent pending development, by the Hydrok design team to work in conjunction with actuator drive systems, eliminating need for operation and maintenance engineers to enter hazardous underground areas when carrying out routine servicing of motor driven actuators.

The initial design was developed to work with the ElectroSlide active flow control and emerged after consideration of the Construction Design Management (CDM) regulations regarding the health and safety issues of working underground. During the research and development stages further applications were identified for other underground actuator driven devices such as penstocks.

Using the Hydrok ActuSlide, each actuator is located via the Hydrok self locating mounting frame and coupling system, allowing the motor/actuator to be lifted from the chamber access without the need for operator entry. Once the maintenance work is completed the drive unit is simply relocated and lowered into position automatically reconnecting with the penstock or flow control device. The drive connection and realignment device was developed, tested and manufactured in-house within Hydrok's high tech manufacturing facilities in South West England and provides a robust and reliable connection with the ability to maintain positional alignment from actuator to variable orifice.

The flexibility and adaptability of the ActuSlide system permits Hydrok to consider the retrofitting of many existing installations within the UK, reducing operator risks as an ongoing programme of improved safety.

To discuss any of water engineering solutions Hydrok are able to offer in the field of water management systems, call David Armstrong on 01726 861900, email: dave.armstrong@hydrok.co.uk

September 2009