Galvanising firm aids in restoration of classic yacht
A Black Country galvanising company has used the specialist skills of its Willenhall workers to help restore a 75-year-old classic sailing boat and put in on course to grace the South of France.
BE Wedge teamed up with Southampton Yacht Services, a firm of classic yacht builders and refitters, to galvanise steel components used in the renovation of the yacht Cambria a classic sloop built in 1928 and designed by the renowned William Fife III.
The refurbishment saw the plant, which specialises in galvanising fasteners and chain components, provide its hot dip galvanising treatment to 130 metres (425ft) of stud link chain, as well as a 110 kilo (240lb) anchor and lifting arm, as part of the renovation which coincided with the refurbishment of the ship's hull.
The work is expected to be completed by the summer when the vessel will return to its normal mooring in the South of France.
Matthew Townsend, customer & refit project manager at Southampton Yacht Services, explained: "The marine environment is extremely corrosive, so it was essential the components were galvanised as part of the renovation to ensure their longevity and to delay the onset of rust."
Lee Dickens, sales manager at BE Wedge – part of the Black Country-based Wedge Group – said: "We were delighted to partner with Southampton Yacht Services and play a part in the renovation of this prestigious yacht.
"As a plant, we're one of the only facilities in the UK to galvanise chain through a continuous process which offers a smooth uniform coating and essentially ensures the steel chain is protected for years to come."
Wedge Group Galvanising is the largest hot-dip galvanising organisation in the UK with a history dating back over 150 years and with 14 plants across the country.
