Seawork 2015, the definitive event for the marine engineering industries leading movers and shakers, docked in the Port of Southampton last week.

From global communications equipment to cutting edge working vessels berthed on the pontoon, Seawork International brings together industry buyers, sellers and designers for a world-class three day Expo widely regarded as the essential “catch-up” for marine professionals. Sarum Hydraulics, your corrosion-resistant marine hydraulic specialists, was on the ground observing the latest in international commercial marine and workboat innovation.

Having attended, blogged and enjoyed Seawork 2014, we were keen to explore the latest developments on show at this year’s event. We are always searching for applications for our MW Series Stainless Hydraulics, with our newly developed 316 Stainless and Polymer MB Series Drum Pump being of particular relevance for the aggressive marine environment. As ever, we were not disappointed, with an exceptional variety of innovative technology at our disposal.

Sarum Hydraulics believes that the UK Marine industry is synonymous with quality, and refreshingly, top-notch, British-made kit was the order of the day. Bailey Marine sailed ahead with their array of exquisite Dorset-made stainless steel fillers and deck hardware, proving the old adage that in the face of quality and bespoke fittings the cheaper, mass-market catalogue offerings simply can not compare.

Whilst bespoke was in, surprisingly, Diesel Outboard offerings were relatively subdued. In fact, the majority of pundits in attendance seemed to be in agreement that in spite of the NATO One Fuel Policy, military changeover aside, they are likely to remain a rather expensive niche, at least for a good while.

No expense was spared however in the increase in high-speed working boats, an area which has seen some major developments, especially in the case of the Ribs on show. Of particular note was a Rib featuring enhanced speed capabilities, powered by twin 300 HP Yamaha Outboards. These blisteringly fast vessels, capable up to 60 Knots, are surely soon to be found battling it out on the high seas, with a colleague shrewdly observing that half of the people interested in these monsters are likely drug, arms and people smugglers, with the remaining half being comprised of the police and coastguards trying to catch them!

Perhaps the latter had better head to the Sarum Hydraulics website. After 30 years of Micropac pumps, we know how to make durable hydraulic systems for all your marine needs that are guaranteed to never let you down – even in the most hostile of environments!