Intelligent Engineering (Canada) Ltd, Ottawa, ON

SPS provides the scope for a step-change in shipbuilding. Prefabricated plates ensure precise dimensional accuracy and flatness. The properties of SPS are such that no secondary stiffening is necessary saving up to 60% of weld length. SPS plates are assembled into panels by welding their steel perimeter bars together. The latter distance the elastomer core from the HAZ (heat affected zone) of the assembly welds. To the shipyard SPS plates just look like thicker than normal steel plates. SPS panels are light, flat and stiff, with superior resistance to fatigue crack propagation, impact damage and local buckling. They also provide built in fire insulation to international standards and very effective damping of structural borne noise and vibration. Flat, fair SPS panel surfaces eliminate the need for filling and levelling compounds, allowing direct decoration by painting or the application of decorative plastic laminates and floor coverings. SPS panels are easier to protect, inspect and maintain, reducing painting and coating costs by up to 30%.