From research to skills in marine engineering

The Institute of Sound and Vibration Research (ISVR) at the University of Southampton, has developed a productive strategic partnership with Halyard – a manufacturer of marine exhaust systems – which spans research, consultancy and skills development.

Halyard specialises in noise reduction systems for boats and yachts. In 2003, responding to new EU regulations limiting the permissible noise generation on leisure craft, the company initiated a research project to investigate the key elements of noise generation on boats. The project was co-funded by the EU, and led to a fruitful research collaboration with the ISVR at Southampton.

The research identified marine exhaust systems as being the key problem and led to the development of a novel noise measurement device, which allowed Halyard to gain an advantage over its industry rivals.

Halyard approached the ISVR about developing a bespoke course for staff on noise and vibration awareness for its sales and development staff which has been hugely beneficial for Halyard: staff are able to apply technical expertise to an early stage in the design process, and customer satisfaction has improved, with clients evidently impressed by the technical knowledge of Halyard staff. The company was recently rated 9.3 out of 10 for customer satisfaction in this area.

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