Walter Barda Hydraulic Window System Overhaul
This project involved a complete hydraulic window system overhaul of the actuator and purchase system used to lift and lower the windows. During our assessment of the existing setup, our team identified several critical issues, including excessive friction, misaligned lines, chafe points, and the use of under-rated components such as blocks, sheave boxes, and a single actuator.
Our team meticulously worked through each challenge, designing and implementing tailored solutions. We upsized the sheave boxes to accommodate higher working loads and repositioned them to correct alignment issues between line angles, blocks, and actuators—eliminating friction and potential chafe points. To ensure maximum durability and efficiency, our in-house team fabricated exposed custom sheave boxes from 316 marine-grade stainless steel. We also installed stainless steel rubbing strips to create a smooth, protective surface where lines and blocks come into contact.
For the purchase system, we selected Dyneema-core rope due to its high strength and low-stretch properties. Each end was professionally spliced with sailmaker’s thimbles for secure attachment to the blocks, allowing the opposite ends to be lashed and finely tuned. This ensures the windows can be fully closed without overloading the system, leaving gaps, or losing adjustment range.
Throughout the project, we worked closely with both builders and electricians to ensure seamless integration and a high-quality finish.
