Ooigem lock in full flow: a fluid modernisation by Arcsom and Besix Unitec
Arcsom is making waves! The Ooigem lock is a crucial link between the Roeselare-Leie canal and the river Leie. In collaboration with Besix Unitec, Arcsom is preparing the lock for the future of inland waterway navigation, without shutting it down. Read more below to find out how we are doing it.
Arne
CARE Division Manager
The challenge
With an annual cargo flow of 4 million tonnes, the Ooigem lock is an essential link for Belgian inland waterway navigation. Such intensive use is also reflected in electronic hardware. The PLCs controlling the pumps, valves and locks are outdated: 2 obsolete PLCs from Siemens and Schneider which you can hardly find spare parts for. Furthermore, they fall short of De Vlaamse Waterweg's future plans, such as remote control.
The biggest obstacle is the pumping installation. It runs 24 hours a day to guarantee a workable water level, and it's not something you just shut down.
Our solution
Arcsom installs a new Schneider PLC in parallel with the existing installation. This way, we can test the new PLC without disturbing the operation of the old one. After a successful proof run, the obsolete hardware makes way for the new PLC. In addition, we seamlessly integrate the SCADA environment, which BESIX Unitec renewed, into the system.
"The pumping installation is the biggest obstacle. It runs 24 hours a day, and it's not something you just shut down.”
Arne
CARE Division Manager
The result
Ooigem lock is equipped with modern hardware, a simplified PLC setup and an improved SCADA system. A smooth conversion with minimum down-time. The Flemish Waterway can count on an efficient performance of the water control installation. Inland waterway 2.0, let's go!
Want to change the tide on your hardware?
Arcsom builds the upgrade your installation needs.
