SeaTec completes rudder repairs
In July 2021, SeaTec completed two underwater rudder weld repairs on two different container sister vessels during cargo operations at Rotterdam port.
During routine underwater propeller polishing and hull inspection services in June this year, it was discovered that the vessel’s rudder bottom plate connection welds were both heavily affected by cavitation – the formation of small vapour-filled cavities – and lamellar tearing – when welded material becomes damaged – over a length of up to 1576mm. This can result in the rudders being penetrated with seawater.
Jean-Paul Engels, general manager for SeaTec’s Subsea operations, explains how the repairs were coordinated: “We started putting together a repair plan which could be reviewed both by our clients and DNV prior to arrival of the vessels. The work method statement was accepted by DNV and the clients, allowing us to conduct the weld repairs in accordance with AWS D3.6M:2017 Class A welds. The repairs were witnessed on site by DNV and approved accordingly.
“The repairs were completed on time and within the vessels berthing schedules thanks to the expertise and dedication of the SeaTec team and partners who attended the vessel in Rotterdam. As a global organisation, we have the flexibility and resource to attend ships all over the world, and this job demonstrated our ability to do that.”
For more information about SeaTec’s Subsea services, contact ops.nl@seatec-services.com.