Some years ago a fellow employee at my previous place of employment said to me “you would be bored if you ever went to work someplace else” and “there would not be enough challenges to meet your desire”.  Today, as I worked in my socks (no  shoes on the Teak deck) I found that statement more untrue than I would of ever realized. I have had the opportunity to work on some pretty amazing machinery through the years, and since I started with Grimstad I have seen even more new and exiting applications of fluid powered automation.  However today’s trip takes it to a new level. I was invited by Palmer Johnson Yachts up to Sturgeon Bay Wisconsin on board a Yacht that had just finished part one of it’s sea trials. My visit was to assist in developing new solutions for some of the boats hydraulic auxiliaries. This 150ft speed boat, yes I said speed boat; the thing will do 40 knots, is something to behold. It powered by two 1000HP diesel engines, has sleeping quarters for 12 guests, plus 7 crew, and a garage on the back for toys. The garage is where the two personal water craft, similar to the one seen on the dock in the foreground, and the tender is kept. The entire tail section of the boat opens to launch the craft through the use of hydraulic power, this is where I get involved. So I spent the day on Sturgeon Bay in the beautiful August weather taking photographs and making notes. Not a bad way to pass 8 hours. I look forward to working with PJ in the future, heck maybe I will get to do some sea trials next time.

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Tags: automation, grimstad, hydraulics, palmer johnson, yacht