ABOUT INFO
THE CLIENT: Established in 1096, The University of Oxford, located in the historic city of Oxford, England, stands as one of the most prestigious academic institutions in the world.
THE PROJECT: The Square Kilometre Array (SKA) is an ambitious intergovernmental scientific endeavour to create one of the most advanced radio telescope arrays ever constructed. The SKA will revolutionise radio astronomy by delivering unprecedented sensitivity and data-gathering capabilities.
SCOPE OF WORK: Hayward GRP was commissioned to design, engineer, and manufacture a highly specialised GRP sun shield to protect the Cryostat assembly against the extreme environmental challenges of its desert installation.
INTRODUCTION IN BRIEF
The client: Oxford University sought a GRP manufacturer with advanced engineering expertise, comprehensive design capabilities, and proven experience in delivering precision composite solutions for demanding technical applications. The requirement was to create an engineered GRP sun shield capable of safeguarding the Cryostat assembly, an integral part of the SKA’s radio telescopes in South Africa.
The specification demanded performance without compromise. The sun shield had to endure the full spectrum of desert conditions: high wind loading, extreme diurnal temperature shifts, and prolonged ultraviolet exposure, while preserving precise dimensional accuracy to ensure seamless operational performance.
OUR SOLUTION AND OBJECTIVES
Hayward GRP collaborated closely with the engineering team at Oxford University’s Department of Physics to define exacting design parameters and the optimal composite specification required to meet the project’s operational demands. Our proposal encompassed advanced CAD modelling, detailed structural calculations, and the development of a high-performance GRP specification engineered for strength and stability in the harshest environments.
Following project approval, we manufactured precision tooling and custom fixtures before producing the first six GRP sun shield assemblies. Each unit underwent rigorous fit-and-function verification by the client’s team prior to shipment to South Africa for on-site evaluation under real-world operating conditions.
THE RESULT IN CONCLUSION
This project exemplified Hayward GRP’s ability to deliver engineered composites of exceptional precision and performance. Working in partnership with Oxford University’s Physics Department, we produced weight-critical GRP sun shield assemblies to exact geometrical tolerances, ensuring full operational integrity in the extreme environment of the Meerkat National Park, South Africa.
Our unwavering commitment to excellence ensured that every stage of production, from concept through to completion, adhered to the strictest tolerances and quality standards. The resulting GRP sun shields integrated seamlessly with the Cryostat assemblies, safeguarding critical components and enabling the SKA to pursue its mission of advancing astronomical discovery.
WHY CHOOSE HAYWARD GRP KNOWLEDGE. EXPERTISE. COMMITMENT.
Hayward GRP is recognised as a complete solution provider with decades of experience delivering complex, bespoke GRP moulding solutions. Our comprehensive approach encompasses every aspect of your project, from initial consultation and design assistance to tooling, precision manufacturing, flawless finishing, and seamless installation, providing clients with an exceptional service that consistently exceeds expectation.
We forge enduring partnerships through clear communication, technical precision, and consistent reliability. Our industry-leading reputation for quality and compliance is built upon strict adherence to internationally accredited standards, ensuring every project meets the highest benchmarks.
READY TO START YOUR PROJECT LET’S MAKE IT HAPPEN
Are you ready to turn your project vision into reality? Our extensive portfolio reflects our expertise and capabilities in delivering world-class GRP solutions. We’re here to bring your ideas to life, reach out to us today, and let’s collaborate to transform your concepts into tangible, stunning realities.
Whether you’re in the UK or anywhere else around the globe, we are eager to discuss how our tailored GRP solutions can elevate your project to new heights, let’s explore the feasibility together.
Contact our team today to start the conversation.
Call us on 01323 679555 or Email: info@haywardgrp.co.uk
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