Hull repairs: no drydock required

There are many unfortunate events that can stop a vessel from sailing. Ships with a leaking stern tube are often not allowed to enter ports. A vessel can be tied up after a collision or a malfunctioning rudder can prevent safe manoeuvring. Going to drydock is obviously not an option in such cases. Arranging the vessel to be unloaded at sea is an organisational and financial disaster for the owner. On top of this it does not solve the problem, because the damaged ship is still unable to leave its location.

Hydrex can perform routing repairs as well as permanent underwater repairs to thrusters, propellers, rudders, stern tube seals and damaged or corroded hulls. In the case of a hull repair, the company’s divers create drydock-like conditions around the affected area so they can carry out these operations on-site and within the shortest possible time frame. Hydrex divers achieve this by welding a watertight box around the affected area, then pumping out the water within it. They can then pump this box dry, make the repair, then finally remove the box. This allows the vessel to sail again. In most cases a permanent repair can be performed and no follow-up is needed. If this is not possible, a class approved temporary solution is offered. The ship can then continue its schedule and go to drydock at a more convenient time and location.

Hydrex offices have fully operational fast response centres allowing them to immediately mobilise teams to locations around the world for a wide range of operations.

By Jake Frith