SMS Group completes dredger refit

This refit of Hanson Aggregate Marine’s 68m ‘Arco Dart’ trailing suction hopper dredger included shell plate and stiffener renewals and repairs; the manufacture and installation of new life raft frames; modifications to breather pipework; removal and renewal of dredge pipe assemblies; bi-annual hydraulics works; motor rewinds and replacements; renewal of portside mooring bollards; various machining projects; electrical works to the main switchboard; bilge cleanings; and various pipeworks.

Alistair Rockett, general manager for Bristol port-based SMS Group in Avonmouth, said: “The refit was the first of the year for us in Avonmouth, and it was a great, great success.

“Special thanks to Antonios Chatzistefanou from Hanson. He and has team ensured the refit ran very smoothly.

“Given the Covid ‘challenge’ all parties, including Antonios, the crew and the supply chain, genuinely pulled together to complete the refit on time and on budget. It was a pleasure to work for Hanson.”

Other planned and preventative maintenance took place alongside too, resulting in a comprehensive repair schedule.

Tony Body, West Coast Regional Manager for The SMS Group, said the COVID-secure work was completed by bio-fogging the vessel pre-handover.

By Rebecca Jeffrey