Advanced Technology
Horizon has put together a talented and world-renowned team of naval architects and engineers to create safe and durable yachts to satisfy our clients. The most advanced technologies available have been used in design, construction and operation of each Horizon-built yacht
CNC Milling System
Computer numerical control (CNC) milling brings a new definition of precision to yacht manufacturing. A milling machine runs on 90-foot tracks, and its 5-axis router, working at the speed of 1,800 inches per minute, can stop at any precise position within a 0.01-inch tolerance. The MR-125 Gantry Milling System is a yacht builder's dream machine.
Rapid, large-part manufacturing with the 5-axis router starts with rough milling of low-density foam blocks. Next, fiberglass-reinforced material is applied to provide strength and rigidity. Then a layer of higher-density foam is added and the entire piece is milled again to produce a perfect part shape.
Working at high speeds and with precise measurements, the computer-driven milling system can create forms that are almost perfectly symmetrical and remarkably consistent. This results in vessels manufactured with exquisite lines built with the greatest efficiency, artistry and economy - all passed along to the yacht owner in beauty and value.
SCRIMP
SCRIMP (Seemann’s Composites Resin Infusion Molding Process) was originally developed by the U.S. Navy while seeking new ways to add strength and durability to a vessel without adding weight or affecting its performance. Horizon was the first authorized yacht builder in Asia to utilize SCRIMP in 1999.
In 2004, after careful studies and tests, Horizon developed an improved resin infusion technology that transforms the resin from original 2D flow on surfaces to 3D flow, which climbs up and down internal stiffeners, enabling the build of far larger structures than previously possible. In the past, the stiffeners could only be constructed through hand lamination, which meant increased weight and less structural integrity. By utilizing the infusion technology, the resin can flow in all directions instead of only in a planar direction, and the stiffeners can be integrated with the yacht during the infusion, making the yacht both stronger and lighter. Horizon broke the world record in 2005 with a 136-foot hull and stiffeners infused in one shot, and to date, Horizon has successfully produced five 130-foot hulls utilizing our improved 3D infusion technology.
In 2009, Horizon was authorized by EADS (The European Aeronautic Defence and Space Company N.V) through SAERTEX as well as authorized for another advanced process technology called VAP (Vacuum Assisted Process). VAP is a breakthrough technology originally developed to be applied on aircraft manufacturing but can now also be applied to yacht manufacturing. Without sacrificing the benefits of SCRIMP, VAP can more uniformly distribute resin and guarantee less air trapped within the composite.
Innovation is one of the major factors that make Horizon stand apart from other builders, and Horizon will keep moving forward to provide the best possible products for customers.
Benefits of SCRIMP include:
1. Reduces the emission of VOCs (Volatile Organic Compounds) to nearly zero
2.Eliminates the chance for contamination or human error when preparing a second bonding surface
3.Guarantees flawless and continuous resin distribution throughout the laminate
4. Allows perfect bonding between the shell and core structures
5.Higher fiber-to-resin ratio, which means lighter and stronger composition
6. Consistent quality