Sentinel Boats looks to upgrade capacity

Sentinel Boats will increase production capacity, safety and efficiency through major upgrades to its Tasmanian workshop. New equipment to enhance Sentinel’s next generation boat production will be acquired with the help of an Export Stream grant from the Australian Government’s Defence Industry Development Grants Program. The $240,000 grant, matched by Sentinel Boat’s own investments, will result in nearly half a million dollars’ worth of investment in production capability.  This will ensure Sentinel continues to lead the world in the design and manufacture of high-performance HDPE vessels. Sentinel Boats CEO, George McGuire, said the grant funding was well timed as Sentinel ramped up production on its largest ever contract to build the New Zealand Navy’s next generation sea boats. “The grant will allow us to purchase two head and tailstock positioners,” McGuire said. “These positioners act like a rotisserie, allowing our vessels to be lifted and rotated 360 degrees during the crucial hand welding phase.  They will not only increase efficiency but considerably improve the safety and workplace ergonomics within Sentinel’s workshop.” Along with the two head and tailstock positioners, Sentinel will also install five interactive display screens, a mobile motorised gantry crane and additional HDPE extrusion welders. “The interactive display screens will enable us to effortlessly access and reference designs in real time, streamlining the production process,” McGuire said. “The 5-tonne motorised gantry crane will improve our efficiency as we move hulls between the various manufacturing/fit out Zones we introduced through the adoption of a flow line production system. This funding will enable us to invest in tools that drive innovation, meet the growing demands of our customers, and contribute our long-term export growth aspirations.” For Editorial Inquiries Contact: Editor Kym Bergmann at [email protected] For Advertising Inquiries Contact: Group Sales Director Simon Hadfield at [email protected]