Progress Update: The New Valhalla 55 Sport
The tooling phase for the new Valhalla 55 Sport is progressing rapidly. This outboard-powered, high-performance cruising yacht will be built on the proven hull of Valhalla's V-55 center console, while showcasing a completely redesigned look above the waterline.
What began as a massive block of foam is now taking the shape of the Valhalla 55’s deck. Viking's 5-axis CNC router has meticulously carved the foam to create an offset surface that mirrors the yacht's actual contours, including the coaming, asymmetrical sidedecks, cockpit sole, and aft seating backrest module. The CNC room is spacious enough to accommodate hulls or components up to 60 feet in length. For larger models, plugs are constructed in multiple sections that are then assembled and bonded together in the R&D Department.
After the completion of the first phase – which is known as the “rough cut” – an epoxy paste is applied via a specialized metering, mixing and dispensing machine to the entire surface of the foam.
With the epoxy fully cured, the 5-axis CNC router is back in action, sculpting the structure into its final form. In this view, you can see the yacht’s port and starboard boarding platforms extending aft of the transom. The tooling process for a part of this size takes just under two weeks, involving continuous, around-the-clock cutting inside the 5-axis room.The same procedure is carried out for the console, which will be joined with the deck liner to become one large plug. The plug will then be used to create a mold, which will then be utilized to build the actual fiberglass part.The R&D team uses overhead hoists to guide the console onto the deck liner.
The team finishes fitting the console inside the deck.
Meanwhile, the rough cut of the 55 Sport’s pilothouse is taking place.
The final cut shows the intricate lines and recessed areas of the part, which include the windshield, side windows and hardtop.
Contact an HMY Valhalla Boatworks Product Specialist for details: (843) 892-8800.
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