Vikings moved by modern technology

Thorite supplied the centre with an HPC compressor in 2001. This proved to be a real workhorse, clocking up 112,000 operating hours. However, fears of costly future repairs led to Thorite being asked to recommend a modern, energy-efficient replacement. 

Thorite proposed the installation of two 4kW HPC screw compressors controlled by a duty switchover mechanism to equally share working hours between the two. A condensate management unit was also installed to ensure any waste oil or water was removed from the compressed air supply and treated prior to disposal, as these contaminants can have harmful effects on the animatronics.

Mark Shepherd, head of technical services at JORVIK Viking Centre, said: "We have been delighted with Thorite's outstanding levels of service and pneumatics know-how, which has resulted in virtually zero downtime over the years. The new energy-efficient compressors will be of huge benefit, not only saving energy costs but also providing complete confidence that our visitors always have the best experience possible.

"Considering that we run all the systems for around 8 to 10 hours every day, it's vital that the machinery behind the scenes is up to the job, and Thorite really know their stuff."