New, optimized Chinook maintenance stand for the Ministry of Defence
The Ministry of Defence and Custers have been working together successfully for years. At various locations, technicians are already using our custom-made maintenance docks for the CH-47 Chinook helicopters. When the need for a new dock arose, we joined forces with the client to fully update and optimize the existing design to meet the latest modern requirements.
The catalyst: room for innovation
The demand for a new dock arose after one of the existing docks at Gilze-Rijen Air Base was relocated to the training workshop. This not only created the need for a replacement installation but also presented a perfect opportunity: it was the ideal moment to re-evaluate the successful, yet somewhat outdated, design. In the past, the existing design had already been adjusted when the Chinook helicopters themselves underwent modifications. Using that solid foundation, we set to work once again.
Joining forces with the end user
Since a similar type of Custers dock is also in use at Woensdrecht Air Base, we initiated a joint consultation. Users from both Gilze-Rijen and Woensdrecht sat down with Custers' engineers. The goal? To pool all practical experiences, requirements, and points for improvement. Following an extensive exchange of information, Custers Engineering immediately set to work translating these requirements into an updated, state-of-the-art design.
Innovative adaptations
Based on practical feedback, several crucial improvements have been implemented in the new design:
Increased load capacity: The load per m2 has been significantly increased from 150 kg/m2 to 250 kg/m2, ensuring even greater safety and flexibility during heavy-duty tasks.
Smarter sliding system: A new, user-friendly sliding system has been integrated to secure the railings more efficiently and safely.
Spacious nose dock: The working surface around the nose of the helicopter has been enlarged, providing technicians with more freedom of movement.
Optimized tail dock extension platform: The platform at the tail has been made lighter and easier to attach, making it much simpler and faster to position in practice.
From production in Venray to commissioning
The initial version of the 3D design was sent to Defence for review. After a few minor but valuable fine-tuning adjustments, the final design was discussed on-site and signed off with 100% approval. Subsequently, the dock went into production at our own factory in Venray. Quality and safety are our top priorities: once all components were ready, the complete dock was first assembled and extensively tested at our facility. Only then was it prepared for transport. Upon arrival at the air base, our specialists assembled the dock, adjusted it to perfection, and delivered it ready for immediate use.
The result
The new Chinook dock is now fully operational. The targeted adjustments are already paying off in practice. The result is an impressive installation featuring:
Enhanced stability for an extremely safe working environment.
Optimal ease of use, ensuring smoother maintenance processes.
Improved ergonomics, reducing the physical strain on technicians.
Defence looks back on the project with great satisfaction and has indicated that the collaboration with Custers was once again experienced as very pleasant, proactive, and constructive. That is what we strive for!