THE PROCEDURE, THE TESTING, AND THE SUCCESS
Once the procedure was finalized, it underwent rigorous testing in an AWS-approved welding laboratory, closely monitored by all relevant agencies. All welding procedures and test welds were successfully completed, meeting and exceeding qualification standards.
CERTIFICATION
After testing was successfully completed, the repair process was formally presented to the major Classification Societies—ABS, DNV, and Lloyd’s Register—as well as the U.S. Coast Guard. Collaborative meetings were held with material and hull specialists at ABS Headquarters in Houston and at DNV’s office in Hamburg.
Each organization provided valuable input on the procedure and overall repair process. All qualifications were conducted in accordance with the guidelines set forth by the American Welding Society (AWS) Standard 3.6D, specifically focused on hull welding.
NO LIMITATIONS TO SHAPE AND SIZE
The size and shape of inserts are not limited to small repairs. Oceanwide has successfully completed repairs ranging from small to very large inserts using this method. There are no restrictions on the size or shape of the insert, provided that the cofferdam is properly constructed with adequate stiffening to withstand the hydrostatic pressure at the depth of the repair.
COST SAVINGS TO YOU AS A CUSTOMER
The benefit of this new procedure for vessel owners and operators is that any underwater hull repairs carried out by Oceanwide will now be considered permanent. This means there will be no need for six-month inspections of the repair, the vessel will remain eligible for UWILD inspections, and there will be no disruption to the vessel’s dry docking schedule.
