MOTALA VERKSTAD

• Latitude: 58.5492
• Longitude: 15.0689
• Baltic Sea
• Marina in Sweden

Location: Motala Östergötland Sweden

Web-site: https://www.motalaverkstad.se

Marine Port Description and Specification: Motala Verkstad, Sweden

Overview

Motala Verkstad is not a conventional large marine port but rather a specialized industrial complex with historic significance, known predominantly for its engineering works. Located in the town of Motala, at the eastern end of Lake Vättern in Sweden, it plays a pivotal role in the maritime industrial activities of the region.

Location

• Coordinates: Approximately 58°32′N 15°02′E
• Region: Östergötland County, Sweden
• Waterway: Connected via the Göta Canal, which links the port to the North Sea and the Baltic Sea through a series of locks and channels.

Historical Context

• Foundation: Established in 1822 by the famous engineer Baltzar von Platen.
• Significance: Often referred to as the "cradle of Swedish engineering," the Motala Verkstad was an integral part of the Göta Canal construction project.
• Industries: Originally focused on shipbuilding and ironworks, the industrial plant has diversified into various engineering disciplines over the years.

Port Specifications

As an industrial port with a focus on engineering rather than commercial shipping, the following specifications are relevant:

• Harbor Type: Small, specialized harbor mainly serving industrial needs.
• Facilities: Equipped with engineering workshops, dry docks, and manufacturing facilities.
• Wharf Length: Limited, only suitable for handling smaller vessels relevant to its industrial activities.
• Maximum Vessel Size: Typically accommodates smaller working vessels and barges used for industrial purposes.
• Cargo Handling: Focus on engineered products, machinery, and components rather than bulk or container cargo.

Services

• Engineering Services: Includes shipbuilding, machinery manufacturing, repair, and maintenance services.
• Dry Docking: Facilities for vessel maintenance and repairs.
• Special Projects: Often involved in specialized engineering projects and fabrications.
• Custom Fabrication: Services tailored to bespoke industrial requirements.

Accessibility

• Road Access: Well-connected by local roads, facilitating transportation of goods and materials.
• Rail Connectivity: Depending on historical rail infrastructure, with potential connections to larger Swedish rail networks.
• Waterway Access: Enabled via the Göta Canal, allowing for niche maritime traffic primarily associated with industrial operations.

Notable Projects and Contributions

• Göta Canal Construction: The engineering works at Motala Verkstad played a crucial role in building and maintaining the Göta Canal.
• Industrial Production: Known for producing ships, steam engines, and a variety of other machinery since the 19th century.

Modern Developments and Current Usage

• Diversification: While maintaining its historical roots in engineering, the facility has diversified into modern manufacturing and specialized engineering services.
• Technology Integration: Ongoing integration of advanced technologies to stay relevant in contemporary industrial markets.

Summary

Motala Verkstad is a significant industrial establishment with historical importance in Swedish engineering. It serves as a specialized hub for engineering, manufacturing, and industrial maritime activities rather than a commercial shipping port. Its strategic location and historical infrastructure support a variety of specialized industrial pursuits, continuing a legacy of engineering excellence that began in the early 19th century.