Supporting Antarctic Research At Scott Base with SlotPro.

Background

The University of Canterbury is one of New Zealand’s leading research institutions, recognised for its innovation and global partnerships. Based in Christchurch, the university’s research spans engineering, environmental science, and Antarctic studies, with teams regularly contributing to international projects focused on climate and atmospheric change.

The University of Canterbury used SlotPro aluminium extrusion to construct a specialised frame at Scott Base, Antarctica. The frame supports a laser designed to measure cloud height as part of ongoing atmospheric research. SlotPro’s modular T-slot system made it possible to transport easily, assemble quickly, and adapt on site. This flexibility proved essential in Antarctica’s uneven and unpredictable environment.

The Challenge

Building a structure at Scott Base required careful planning and adaptability. The team needed a lightweight frame that could be transported easily and assembled without specialised tools. With limited knowledge of the exact site conditions before arrival, the design also had to accommodate uneven ground and variable terrain. Durability and corrosion resistance were critical, as the frame would be exposed to Antarctica’s extreme temperatures and weather conditions.

The Build

To support the laser instrument, the University of Canterbury team assembled a custom frame using SlotPro T-slot aluminium extrusion. The system allowed them to make precise adjustments on site and achieve a stable, level platform despite the uneven ground. One of the project leads noted, “T-slot was great for this as the ground is very uneven and we weren’t really sure what we were dealing with until we arrived on site.”

The modular design made it easy to transport components from New Zealand to Antarctica and complete assembly at Scott Base using only basic hand tools. This flexibility allowed the team to adapt the frame as needed while maintaining strength and structural integrity in the harsh environment.

The Result

The completed frame is now in operation at Scott Base, supporting vital atmospheric research and data collection. Its strength, adjustability, and corrosion resistance make it ideal for long-term use in extreme conditions. This project shows how SlotPro extrusion can adapt to almost any environment, from industrial workshops to Antarctica.