Engineering Trust: SFT Builds on Expertise to Equip Terneuzen’s New Lock, Netherlands

The Terneuzen New Lock, replacing the oldest of three locks in Terneuzen, will expand capacity and resolve shipping bottlenecks between the Western Scheldt and the Ghent-Terneuzen Canal. Designed to improve access, enhance traffic flow, and support the transit of larger see-going vessels, this 427 meter structure ranks among the largest locks in the world.

In close collaboration with contractor consortium Sassevaart, SFT was entrusted with two zones of the lock: the access area and the passage area.

• For the access area, 220 fender panels were delivered in varying widths and heights, each equipped with 50 mm UHMW PE pads and HDPE top chamfers to prevent mooring ropes from snagging during operations.
• Providing full-length protection for the passage area, 79 assembled floating SeaCamels were supplied, ranging from 305 mm to over 13 meter in length and covering approximately 500 meters on both sides of the lock.

The lock’s wall lead-in structure presented specific requirements. Our in-house engineering team designed the fender panels to align with this structure. The panels were coated to NORSOK standards for superior corrosion resistance, with some featuring recessed bollards. To meet stringent quality requirements, all welding adhered to EXC2 classification in accordance with EN-1090, and the UHMW-PE pads complied with the Dutch standard NDB 09799.

To further enhance the lock’s functionality, the SeaCamels were designed to facilitate smooth vessel entry and exit, offering superior durability compared to traditional timber. Made from recycled plastic reinforced with glass fiber bars, they provide adjustable stiffness, while their low-friction, hard-wearing coextruded outer skin ensures long-term performance. SeaCamels were delivered fully pre-assembled for immediate installation.

Terneuzen’s New Lock opens a new chapter of economic growth and enhanced maritime connections in the region. Building on its proven reliability in equipping locks, ShibataFenderTeam was commissioned once again for this landmark project, reinforcing its reputation as a trusted partner and expert in lock protection systems.