For over six decades, Douglas B Foote Ltd (DBF) has been a trusted name in precision engineering, providing high-performance marine hydraulic solutions to boatbuilders, shipyards, and marine operators across New Zealand. From its humble beginnings in a Takapuna garage in 1958, DBF has evolved into a specialist in CNC machining, hydraulic hose solutions, and manufacturer of its signature range of stainless steel hydraulic fittings, catering to the unique challenges of the marine environment.

DBF remains family-owned, with a commitment to quality, durability, and innovation. Their ISO9001:2015 accreditation ensures that every product meets strict industry standards, giving marine engineers and vessel operators confidence in precision-crafted components that stand up to the harshest maritime conditions.

Precision engineering excellence: Built for the sea

In marine applications, precision engineering isn’t just about performance—it’s about survivability in extreme conditions. DBF’s CNC machining expertise ensures that every component, whether for hydraulic systems, propulsion units, or custom marine fittings, is manufactured from the best materials available with the highest degree of accuracy giving outstanding performance and resistance to corrosion and wear.

DBF works extensively with marine-grade materials, including stainless steels, titanium, and aluminium, to produce hard-wearing, corrosion-resistant components. Whether it’s a prototype part for a new vessel design or high-volume production for commercial marine applications, DBF’s state-of-the-art machine technology delivers uncompromising quality and reliability. Their tailored approach means they can create custom-engineered solutions that integrate seamlessly into existing hydraulic or mechanical systems, ensuring optimal vessel performance.

Hydraulic hose and stainless hydraulic fittings: Keeping marine operations running smoothly

The marine industry relies on robust hydraulic systems to operate steering mechanisms, winches, cranes, lifting gear, and stabilisers. DBF provides marine-grade hydraulic hoses and stainless hydraulic fittings, designed to withstand the high pressures, constant motion, and corrosive saltwater environment that vessels endure daily.

Hydraulic hose solutions for the marine industry

DBF’s high-pressure hydraulic hoses and fittings are built for marine-specific applications, where reliability and fluid integrity are critical. These play an essential role in:

• Hydraulic steering systems – ensuring smooth, responsive control at sea.
• Deck machinery – powering winches, davits, and hydraulic lifts.
• Engine cooling and fluid transfer – maintaining safe operating temperatures and performance.
• Stabiliser and trim tab systems – improving vessel balance in varying sea conditions.

With an extensive stock range, including custom-assembled hoses, DBF ensures that marine operators minimise downtime, providing rapid turnaround services and expert advice on selecting the right hose for each application.

Stainless steel hydraulic fittings – designed for saltwater resilience

Standard plated mild steel fittings may work in controlled environments, but in the marine industry, corrosion resistance is paramount. DBF’s 316 grade stainless steel hydraulic fittings feature a protective chromium oxide layer, ensuring maximum durability in saltwater conditions.

By opting for stainless steel over mild steel, vessel operators can:

– Reduce maintenance and replacement costs – stainless steel fittings last significantly longer in marine environments.
– Improve system reliability – corrosion-resistant fittings prevent leaks and failures at sea.
– Enhance safety – strong, pressure-tested fittings ensure hydraulic integrity in critical systems.

DBF carries Australasia’s largest range of stainless hydraulic fittings, with nearly 4000 distinct line items in stock, ensuring fast availability. If a bespoke solution is required, DBF’s in-house design and machining teams can create custom fittings with minimal lead time, providing vessel operators with exactly what they need, when they need it.

To guarantee performance and compatibility, DBF’s fittings undergo rigorous impulse testing to meet ISO6803 and SAE J517 standards. This ensures seamless integration with leading hydraulic hose brands, delivering trouble-free performance in high-pressure marine applications.

A trusted partner for marine engineers and vessel operators

Whether maintaining a fleet of commercial vessels, outfitting a superyacht, or upgrading a hydraulic system on a fishing trawler, DBF’s precision-engineered hydraulic hoses and stainless fittings provide the reliability and durability the marine industry demands. Their combination of expertise, top-tier materials, and commitment to quality assurance makes them the go-to supplier for high-performance marine hydraulics.

For marine engineers and operators looking for long-lasting hydraulic solutions, DBF delivers components built for life at sea.