Sealite’s big buoys for coal in Newcastle

The Newcastle Port Corporation in Australia has installed these Sealite Trident-3000 polyethylene ocean buoys fitted with SL125 5-7nm+ GPS flash synchronised LED lanterns as part of its recent coal terminal expansion. The Trident-3000 is one of the largest, rotationally moulded buoys available, with a float diameter of 3m and lantern focal height of up to 5m.

The float section is built from four rotationally moulded quadrants, which fasten together to form an incredibly robust float section. Each quadrant is moulded from UV-stabilized, virgin polyethylene, and has an 18mm wall thickness. In addition, each section is filled with closed-cell polyurethane which prevents the ingress of moisture in the unlikely event of damage.

A galvanised steel or 316-grade stainless steel mooring pole runs through the centre of the assembly, to which the tower section is fastened. Four large lifting eyes aid in buoy mooring and periodic servicing.

Meeting Newcastle Port Corporation’s requirements for ‘Harbour-Class’ buoys, these were also the initial replacement of existing steel buoys within the main shipping channel of the harbour. The buoys were chosen over steel buoy products due to their increased visibility, lower initial cost outlay, reduced ongoing maintenance costs and superior service life.

From a safety perspective, the company points out that the Trident-3000 is far easier to handle during service intervals due to its lower overall weight, making the service contractors’ handling procedures far safer than for steel buoys.

The second part of the project was to provide Port Hand channel marks for the coal export terminal commissioned by the NCIG (Newcastle Coal Infrastructure Group). The Port of Newcastle is one of Australia’s busiest ports. Coal is railed in from the Hunter Valley to Kooragang Island in Newcastle and then transferred to the ship loaders before being moved onto the massive Panamax type ships for export.

The expansion of the coal export facilities in Newcastle represents a significant increase in the port’s ability to export materials for the increasing demand from world-wide markets.

This project showcases Sealite’s ability to work direct with a major port authority, to supply a world-class navigation aid; suited specifically to the local operational requirements.