The prinses Irene sluis is one of the Netherlands’ vital flood control structures, a massive lock system that regulates water levels while allowing vessels to pass safely. Keeping such a structure operational requires careful, consistent mechanical maintenance.

To support this, BIBUS BV recently supplied a custom EasyMotion system designed to improve the sluis’s cable oiling process, a critical step in ensuring the gate’s movement remains smooth, reliable, and safe year after year.

A Reliable Solution for a Demanding Environment

In large-scale hydraulic structures like the prinses Irene Sluis, steel lifting cables play a central role in opening and closing the massive lock gates. Over time, these ropes are exposed to harsh environmental conditions, moisture, friction, and load variations, that can lead to corrosion and wear if not properly maintained.

The newly installed EasyMotion system provides an efficient way to condition these cables with oil at regular intervals. This process typically takes place once or twice per year and ensures the ropes maintain flexibility, strength, and long-term integrity.

What is an easymotion system?

The Easymotion system is a synchronous linear hydraulic height adjustment system that uses one or multiple cylinders. The desired height adjustment can be realized by simultaneously controlling each individual cylinder.

Easymotion can be used for many different applications. Not to mention, it is fully customizable. The Easymotion system consists of a hydraulic pump, hydraulic cylinders, and hydraulic hoses to connect all components. The system can be operated with either an electric motor or manual crank.

How the EasyMotion System Works

The EasyMotion system from BIBUS BV is a manually mechanical drive system that moves vertically to arrive in the correct position to reach the ropes. The system then has a set of oiling brushes, the ropes start to wind/unwind by opening the flood gates and at the same time get lathered with oil. The system is maneuvered vertically by using the manual crank.

What makes this installation special is its custom engineering:

• The standard EasyMotion normally includes max 5 meters of hydraulic hose, but this version used a special extended to 14 meters to allow operators more working distance and flexibility.
• The system is manually operated, eliminating the need for electric motors or automated drives. This was an intentional choice for the Prinses Irene Sluis, where safety, reliability, and ease of maintenance take priority.
• The design ensures controlled vertical motion with minimal mechanical complexity, fewer moving parts mean fewer failure points and easier servicing.
• Quick connectors on pump and cilinders for plug and play use.

Built for Safety, Longevity, and Simplicity

The custom EasyMotion system ensures:

• Safe operation: Manual control avoids electrical hazards in damp or outdoor environments.
• Reduced maintenance: Simple mechanical components minimize the need for repairs or spare parts.
• Consistent performance: Uniform oil distribution along each cable prevents uneven wear.
• Operational reliability: No dependence on sensors or electronic controls.

This approach aligns perfectly with the Prinses Irene Sluis’ maintenance philosophy, keep it robust, simple, and safe.

Engineering for the Long Term

By combining mechanical simplicity with precision, the EasyMotion system helps ensure that the Prinses Irene sluis continues to function smoothly, even under heavy mechanical loads and demanding environmental conditions.

BIBUS BV’s contribution demonstrates the company’s strength in custom motion and maintenance solutions for critical infrastructure. Whether it’s a flood gate, a lifting bridge, or a maritime actuator system, reliability and practicality remain at the heart of every design.

BIBUS has supplied the EasyMotion system to the company Sinke RVS, which has installed it into a professional construction. Sinke RVS is a company that specializes on custom applications. Focused on engineering, process technology and light constructions of stainless steel. As knowledge partner Sinke RVS helps clients to find the proper solution.