TRELLEBORG BECOMES PIANC PLATINUM PARTNER

Trelleborg has long supported the work of PIANC, the International Association of Waterborne Transport Infrastructure, which is the global organization that provides guidance for the sustainable development of ports and waterways. PIANC provides a forum for interested parties from across the world to join forces to provide expert advice on cost-effective, reliable and sustainable infrastructure.

Speaking at the 33rd PIANC World Congress, Richard Hepworth, President of Trelleborg Marine Systems, said: “Trelleborg has a longstanding association with PIANC, and has a number of people involved in technical working groups. We''ve participated in and sponsored previous Congress events, and always keep a close eye on developments within PIANC.

“Clearly, it''s a relationship we value highly. As a manufacturer of mission critical port equipment, it''s essential to us to share knowledge with the industry body that guides standards across the board.”

Trelleborg is involved in a number of PIANC working groups, including WG 145, which investigates berthing velocities and fender design, and WG 153, which seeks to provide new guidelines for marine oil terminal design.

Louis Van Schel, Secretary-General at PIANC, said: “We''re delighted to welcome Trelleborg into our Platinum Partnership Program. With the company already involved in a number of our working groups and events, it was a natural step to take. As we continue to set best practice guidance for so many, and varied, issues pertinent to waterborne transport infrastructure, it was important to have a supplier on board that could contribute across such a broad spectrum.

“Trelleborg''s expertise extends from shore-based infrastructure, where it''s involved in supplying some of the biggest and most prestigious projects in the world, to oil and gas and LNG. The company has a variety of innovative products for this sector and has been evolving solutions to meet its needs for years. As such, experts from the related industries within Trelleborg are well placed to contribute to a number of the areas we work within.”

This year''s Congress resolution, set forth by PIANC, will investigate ongoing and emerging trends, technologies and business models. Trelleborg looks forward to being involved in contributing to this important discussion going forward. The latest Barometer Report form Trelleborg Marine Systems found that 75% think it''s important for the supplier to be involved in ongoing maintenance of equipment, and Trelleborg believes that supplier involvement post-installation, as well as in the planning process is critical.