Key Updates To RINA’s Rules For The Classification Of Ships

By
Mfame Editor
-
16

RINA has released revised regulations across six key parts of its ship classification rules to align with the latest international standards and advancements in maritime technology. Below is a summary of the significant changes in each section:

Part A – Classification and Surveys

  1. Dual/Class Assignment:
    • Introduced procedures for dual-class assignment (IACS PR1B Rev.7).
    • Added protocols for assigning classes to pre-approved designs (IACS PR42).
  2. New Service Features:
    • Added classifications like “Aquaculture” and “Small Tug” for workboats.
  3. Survey Alignment:
    • Updated survey requirements to align with IMO resolutions and improved classification protocols.

Part B – Hull and Stability

  1. Safety Enhancements:
    • New rules for cofferdams to ensure separation of potable water tanks from hazardous substances.
  2. Welding Standards:
    • Clarified welding throat thickness requirements for compatibility with automated welding technologies.

Part C – Machinery, Systems, and Fire Protection

  1. Engine and Ambient Standards:
    • Adopted new standards for ambient conditions and engine testing (e.g., IACS UR M46, UR M83).
  2. Fuel Piping Systems:
    • Specific rules for methyl/ethyl alcohol fuel systems to mitigate toxicity risks.
  3. Alternative Fuels:
    • Updated standards for biofuels and other alternative fuels in internal combustion engines.

Part D – Materials and Welding

  1. NDT Requirements:
    • Introduced updated Non-Destructive Testing (NDT) protocols.
  2. Material Standards:
    • Enhanced rules for cast steel and copper alloy propellers.
    • Aligned materials standards with IACS UR W35 and UR W27.

Part E – Service Notations

  1. Tug Rules:
    • Revised hull and stability requirements for tugs, including updated structural definitions for towing operations.
  2. Liquefied Gas Cargo Piping:
    • Enhanced standards for liquefied gas and ballast piping systems.

Part F – Additional Class Notations

  1. Alternative Fuels:
    • Expanded notations like LNG READY and NH3 FUELLED READY to include fuel cells.
  2. Polar-Class Ships:
    • Added machinery requirements for polar-class vessels (IACS UR I3).

Overall Significance

These updates reflect RINA’s commitment to:

  • Enhancing Safety: With stringent requirements for hazardous material separation and new NDT protocols.
  • Sustainability: Supporting alternative and biofuel adoption.
  • Technological Advancements: Aligning welding and material standards with automated and modern practices.
  • Global Compliance: Incorporating IACS Unified Requirements and Recommendations to stay consistent with international maritime standards.

These amendments ensure that RINA-classed vessels meet evolving safety, operational, and environmental challenges in the maritime industry.

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Source: DANCOMPLIANCE