Burwell Technologies and BAE Systems automate ship blast systems

Abrasive blasting manufacturer Burwell Technologies has been working with shipbuilder BAE Systems Australia to test autonomous robotic blast systems that could be used to help automate construction of Hunter class frigates being built in Adelaide for the Royal Australian Navy.

Burwell, which provided an autonomous robotic abrasive blast solution for the Sydney Harbour Bridge, is exploring whether its systems (pictured) can be used in the frigate prototyping phase now underway at Osborne shipyard.

The trials involved a product commercialised by SABRE Autonomous Solutions and tested the operation and capability of the solution in a confined space shipbuilding environment.

BAE Systems Maritime Australia Global Combat Ship Manufacturing Director, Alastair Bacon said the company was delivering digital shipbuilding in ways that have never before been done in this country.

Bacon said: “It is vital that we continue to look at new ways of working and advanced and innovative manufacturing methods, which will improve productivity, quality and safety outcomes at the state-of-the-art shipyard at Osborne.”

Small prototype ship modules mimicking the hull and internal compartments of the frigates are housed at the Tonsley Innovation Precinct where various manufacturing processes are being tested.

Burwell Technologies is a leading manufacturer and distributor of air blast equipment, blast rooms, dust extraction systems and abrasives for surface preparation.

Picture: BAE Systems

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