Grave Weir
Protection of millions of people
The Grave Weir, located near the town of Grave, is a crucial part of the Dutch water management system, regulating water levels and ensuring safe navigation on the Maas River. To support the reliable operation of this structure, our team at DRIE-D has developed and supplied several key components. Each part has been designed to withstand the demanding conditions of the weir environment, ensuring durability and without maintenance.
The challenge:
reliability and maintenance
One of the key challenges in the project was the issue of corrosion between the stainless steel axle and the surrounding steel components. The axles and wheels were affected by severe corrosion and immobilized by debris such as sand and water. Because the grease nipples were difficult to access for maintenance and required lubrication several times a year, maintenance was highly labor-intensive. Overcoming these obstacles was crucial to ensure the continued efficiency and reliability of the Grave Weir’s operation.
The solution:
D-glide® application in existing design
To address these challenges, DRIE-D implemented several key solutions. A D-glide® FT bushing was introduced to ensure low friction and smooth operation. An integrated seal was added to keep debris out of the bearing, reducing wear and maintaining low friction by preventing contaminants from entering. Thrust washers were placed on the running wheel to minimize friction and protect the wheel’s coating by acting as a buffer at the contact surface.
To safeguard the axle, a D-glide® F bushing was applied, preventing direct contact between the axle and the mounting plate/saddle/axle support, which prevents the previous galvanic corrosion. The choice for D-glide® was strategic, as the material does not swell when exposed to water, ensuring consistent wheel movement and reliable performance.
A proud contribution
By implementing tailored solutions such as this D-glide® FT and D-glide® F components, DRIE-D successfully overcame the challenges of corrosion and friction at the Grave Weir. These innovations have improved the reliability and longevity of the structure, showcasing our expertise in delivering effective, maintenance-friendly solutions for critical water management projects.
At DRIE-D, we are a trusted partner in engineering projects, committed to finding the right solutions for even the most complex challenges. If you are interested in learning how we can support your project, don’t hesitate to get in touch with our team by engineer@drie-d.com or +31 10 313 4720.