SAS Assegaai Makes Progress Despite Setbacks During Move
The much-anticipated move of the SAS Assegaai submarine to its new home at the Assegaai Submarine Museum has begun!
However, the journey hasn't been entirely smooth sailing...
Safety First: Load Testing Reveals Concerns
The move commenced on Saturday, July 6th, but initial load tests identified a potential issue. The forward lifting frames, crucial for safely transporting the submarine, were showing signs of strain. Prioritizing the safety of the vessel, the team at Armscor Dockyard immediately took action.
Reinforcement Takes Time: Move Delayed for Modifications
Placing safety above all else, the team opted to postpone the move. Armscor Dockyard fabricated and welded reinforcement plates to strengthen the lifting frames. This meticulous process extended into the night, pushing back the move to Monday.
New Challenges Emerge: Height Clearance and Docking Bogey Removal
Monday's attempt presented new hurdles. The team encountered difficulties ensuring sufficient height clearance for the submarine as it navigated out of the docking area. Additionally, removing the docking bogeys from beneath the keel proved to be a complex task.
Move Begins, But Frame Distortion Forces Halt
Despite these unforeseen challenges, the team commenced the move at 3:40 PM on Monday. Unfortunately, shortly after initiating the turn out of the docking area, a frame began to distort. This raised safety concerns, and the move was halted once again.
Design Incompatibility Identified: Solution Underway
The source of the problem was identified as a design incompatibility. The lifting platforms were designed to distribute pressure based on the load, which wasn't fully compatible with the design of the frames. While this setback was disheartening for the dedicated teams working tirelessly in challenging weather conditions, a solution is already in sight.
Strengthening the Frames: The Path Forward
The plan involves modifying the lifting frames. The horizontal sections will be cut off and significantly strengthened within the Dockyard workshops before being re-welded onto the frames. The necessary steel has already been acquired, and additional welders and equipment are being sourced to expedite the process. The goal is to ensure the Assegaai is fully prepared for its final move before the departure of the Vanguard.
Teamwork and Positivity Despite Setbacks
The SAS Assegaai move has encountered hurdles, but the project hasn't lost momentum. The unwavering dedication, cooperation, and positive attitude of the Armscor Dockyard, Vanguard, and Assegaai Project core group have been instrumental in overcoming these challenges, even under adverse weather conditions. The team remains optimistic and anticipates a successful arrival at the museum site, albeit with a slight delay.