Utilizing funding from federal and state grants, Gladding-Hearn Shipbuilding, Duclos Corp., has completed multiple projects to upgrade their Somerset, Mass., facilities.
A grant from the U.S. Maritime Administration’s Small Shipyard Grant Program combined with funding from Massachusetts Clean Energy Center made the projects possible. The company replaced heavy bi-fold doors at its Walker Street facility that had required multiple cranes and workers to operate. This led to the team avoiding using the doors and therefore not utilizing the entire shop space. According to yard officials, the new doors can be easily opened and closed by a single employee, allowing full use of the space available.
Grant funding also supported the purchase of a custom 35-ton self-propelled Hostar trailer designed to more safely move vessels under 60ʹ. The split design allows the trailer to back under a vessel and support it using sliding keel beams and hydraulic arms. In addition to rubber tires, the trailer is equipped with cradle wheels that allow vessels to be launched on the shipyard’s marine railway and moved directly to and from shops for repair without the use of multiple crane lifts.
Funds used also to construct a sheltered plate storage area. The new structure allows steel plating to be stored on outdoor racks while remaining protected from weather exposure
Gladding-Hearn said the upgrades are part of ongoing efforts to modernize its facility and improve day-to-day operations while maintaining a focus on employee safety.