18
new wave
NEXT-LEVEL TESTING The Horizon Group continues to pioneer the evolution of advanced composite yacht construction as the world’s first and only yacht builder to implement a variety of Non-Destructive-Testing (NDT) methods.
For two decades, Horizon has been pioneering the advancement
conventional methods of measurement and inspection
of composite yacht construction through the efforts of its
(such as tapping a surface with a hammer to identify sound
subsidiary Atech Composites. Founded in 2000, Atech specializes
difference and detect defects) for the infused composite hulls.
in advanced composites, producing not only the hull, decks and
Horizon is now the world’s first and only shipyard to apply
superstructure of every Horizon yacht, but also providing Fiber
multiple aerospace testing methods to ensure the quality
Reinforced Plastics (FRP) components across multiple industries
of every yacht it builds.
in Asia and beyond. Atech has been behind such notable achievements as the
After the analysis and testing of the raw materials used in the infusion process, each hull is tested for structural
world-record infusion of a 140ft yacht hull in a single shot and
integrity after coming out of the mold via the following
many award-winning cross-industry composite components
methods. Implementing multiple testing methods allows
from wind turbine blades to high-speed rail cars. In 2004, Atech
for the most accurate detection of any defect to ensure the
developed an improved 3D resin infusion technology that
ultimate in structural integrity.
transforms the original 2D resin flow on surfaces to 3D flow, which climbs up and down internal stiffeners, enabling the build of far larger structures than previously possible. In 2020, Atech further refined its 3D infusion capabilities by introducing and patenting 6D vacuum infusion technology. This process infuses a yacht hull with 3D-infused macro structure of the longitudinal girders and transverse frame with the 3D-infused micro structure glass fabric cloth. This revolutionary process guarantees more efficient and even resin distribution throughout the lamination, thus ensuring a consistency of quality and allowing for the single-process construction of hulls over 140 feet. Atech continued the advancements of composite construction by introducing several non-destructive-testing methods utilized by the aerospace industry. While many shipyards do now use vacuum infusion for a yacht hull and small parts, most still use V O L U M E 5 5 // 2 0 21
