Renewal of Lock Gates in Helmond
Rijkswaterstaat is replacing all the lock gates of the Zuid-Willemsvaart lock in Helmond to ensure continued safety and reliability. The contract was awarded in 2024 to Van den Biggelaar Grond- en Waterbouw in collaboration with Van der Zalm Metaalindustrie, based on BPKV (Best Price-Quality Ratio) criteria.
A preliminary design for the tender was developed with a strong focus on resistance to fatigue cracking. Together with PT-Structural, Vroegh-edc prepared the detailed and final designs (DO and UO) for the lock gates and produced all the workshop drawings for Van der Zalm Metaalindustrie.
Van den Biggelaar Grond- en waterbouw | Van der Zalm metaalindustrie B.V.
A challenging design
The main structure of the lock gate was completely redesigned compared to the original, resulting in significantly improved resistance to fatigue. One of the key requirements was the reuse of many existing components — including the sliding drive, pivot points, and original push/pull rod mechanisms. This combination of reused parts and a new structural configuration created several design challenges. However, through close collaboration with Rijkswaterstaat, Van den Biggelaar Grond- en Waterbouw, Van der Zalm Metaalindustrie, and PT-Structural, we developed effective and innovative solutions.
Time efficiency
Significant time savings were achieved by developing the final design (UO) model directly at workshop level. During the UO process, special attention was given to the correct sequence of welding and machining operations. By modelling all (sub)welded assemblies and machined components in this way, the approved UO could be immediately converted into workshop drawings, allowing production to start without delay.
The lock gates were replaced in October and November 2025. In addition to the installation of the four operational lock gates, two spare gates were also delivered.
