Palmek

Palmek is a specialized alignment tool for large bulb flats (HP profiles), designed for straightening and positioning stiffeners prior to welding. Two versions are available: left-hand and right-hand models, which are mirror images of each other. Palmek can improve productivity by up to 30–40% by reducing alignment time. It is particularly suitable for large stiffeners up to HP 430, commonly used in icebreaker bow sections. Time-consuming steps such as welding temporary brackets, using wedges, flame-cutting brackets off, and grinding residual material can be eliminated when using Palmek. The tool is quickly attached using a wedge, and its adjustment screw allows use with various bulb flat sizes ranging from HP 140 to HP 430. A compatible hydraulic cylinder model, RSS202, is available from Osatek Oy. Palmek is designed to accommodate commonly used low-profile hydraulic cylinders, typically providing 15–20 tonnes of force, with a minimum installation height of 95 mm and a stroke length of approximately 40 mm.