AXTech supports Norway’s ocean future

Progress well underway at The Norwegian Ocean Technology Centre

June 20, 2025

At Tyholt in Trondheim, one of the world’s most advanced marine research and education facilities is taking shape. The Norwegian Ocean Technology Centre will be key in creating future value in the ocean industries and contributing to the green transition.

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The centre will include a state-of-the-art ocean basin where SINTEF and NTNU will carry out simulations and tests using scaled models of marine structures.
AXTech is delivering three of the centre’s most technically demanding contracts, and work is progressing well.

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These one-of-a-kind projects are a real challenge – and just how we like it! They’re what makes everyday life at AXTech interesting, says Marita, deputy project manager.

Movable Floors

The largest of AXTech’s contributions involves the design and delivery of two identical movable floor systems for the Ocean Basin and the Seakeeping and Manoeuvring Basin. This is AXTech’s most extensive project to date – and a highly complex engineering challenge.

Several subsystems are already in production, with the first components nearing completion. The first Factory Acceptance Test (FAT) was successfully conducted in early June. Engineering and fabrication are progressing in parallel, with each system entering production as soon as its design is finalised.

The first components to be installed on-site will be the Movable Floor Vertical Positioning System and the Centre Pit System. Due to the size and complexity of these structures, early installation is essential and must take place before the building is enclosed.

Initial installation is scheduled to begin in summer 2026.

Trim Dock Gates

Although the Trim Dock Gates represent the smallest of AXTech’s three contracts, they are essential to ensuring efficient operation of the test facilities. Installed in both the Ocean Basin and the Seakeeping and Manoeuvring Basin, they enable model preparations to take place even while the wave generators are running.

This is achieved through a dedicated sealing mechanism and a specialised design that prevents wave interference in the trim dock area. Engineering is complete, fabrication is currently underway, and completion is targeted by the end of 2025.

Wave Absorption System

AXTech is also responsible for the design and manufacturing of the Wave Absorption System. This system will enhance wave quality in the test basin by minimising wave reflection, thereby supporting the creation of optimal testing conditions.

An innovative design allows the system to adapt to varying test depths, ensuring flexibility for different research scenarios. The engineering phase is nearing completion, with fabrication scheduled throughout the remainder of 2025 and into early 2026. Installation is expected to commence in early 2027.

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