Pump Overhaul for Europe”s Largest Underwater Tunnel

Colchester Zoo is now one of the finest zoos in Europe thanks to a continuing programme of development, which has seen it win the coveted Large Visitor Attraction of the Year award and the Sustainable Tourism award. The zoo is set in 60 acres of beautiful parkland and lakes, with over 270 species in its care.

The sea lion enclosure, Playa Patagonia, was opened in August 2003 and has the largest straight underwater tunnel in Europe. The glass in the tunnel is 10cm thick and the tank holds half a million gallons of water! The enclosure is currently home to five female Patagonian sea lions, but can accommodate as many as 12!

Gibbons were asked to carry out a full overhaul of the two main 55kW water pumps serving the enclosure. This was because vibration readings were in excess of the ISO recommended levels, while the mechanical seals required replacement. Our team undertook a full package of work, including the lift and shift of the pumps which were returned to our premises for a comprehensive overhaul and re-instated on completion.

The project also included the replacement of the bearings plus removal and re-instatement of the coupling assembly. For precision alignment, the coupling was set up using our state-of-the-art laser aligner.

The refurbished pumps and motors were set to work and checked for running current and vibration levels before returning to normal service.

If you would like more details, or to discuss new opportunities, please contact:

Matthew Gibbons
Engineering Services Manager – Pumps & Controls
t. 07970 676272
e. matthew@gibbonsgroup.co.uk
w. www.gibbonsgroup.co.uk