Hydrex divers have always provided customized repair solution above and underwater in times of need. But how they do it in such a short span of time in real time remains a mystery. So here we are taking a look into how they carried out six stern tube seal operations all across Europe in a very short time span. 2 of those repairs are being analyzed in this detailed press release issued by Hydrex.
The 2 Repairs in Question
In Flushing the four damaged seals of a 268-meter container vessel were replaced underwater with their flexible mobdock technique. In Antwerp a seal operation was performed on a trimmed 185-meter general cargo ship. Both repairs were carried out in cooperation with the OEM.
Repair in stages to fit the ship’s schedule
- Preparatory Work
Because the container vessel had a very tight schedule, Hydrex proposed to carry out preparatory work during an earlier stop in Dunkirk. This included the removal of the rope guard.
As a result the divers could immediately start the operation when the ship arrived in Flushing. They installed the flexible mobdock to allow for work in dry conditions.
- The Actual Operation
During the operation the team removed the four damaged seals and replaced them with new ones. Working together with the OEM allowed Hydrex to provide the customer with original spare parts which guarantees the best quality material. A technician of the seal manufacturer was also present during the operation.
Taking advantage of the company’s flexible mobdock technique the team was able to carry out the entire repair on-site and underwater. Because all the required material is ready to be transported at all times, no time was lost making preparations.
- Ship sailed as per schedule
The ship then sailed to her next destination without delay to the schedule. During her stop in Le Havre the team reinstalled the rope guard and finalized the repair.
Organising and Mobilising Things
By organizing all steps of this operation from start to finish the owner did not have to worry about making any arrangements for the repair.
Mobilization to this operation was done using one of the Hydrex workboats loaded with all the needed materials. These boats are fully equipped as dive support stations and can be used for a wide range of operations. They increase flexibility of operation, which is essential during operations like these where speed is of the utmost importance.
Adapting operations to the customer’s needs
The general cargo ship also suffered a leaking stern tube assembly. The owner contacted Hydrex and asked them to find the best possible afloat repair solution. Because the vessel could be trimmed it was suggested to replace the damaged seals above water during the ship’s stop in Ghent. The repair would be done in close cooperation with the OEM.
How the collaboration helped in repairing?
Prior to the operation the vessel was trimmed to lift the working area above the water. The team then built a scaffolding around the stern tube seal assembly. Next the technicians removed the rope guard. This allowed them to clean the entire area and perform an inspection. The assembly was then opened to give the service engineer of the OEM access to the seals.
After the seals had been replaced the assembly was closed again. Leakage tests were then successfully carried out. The Hydrex team repositioned and secured the rope guard. They removed the scaffolding to conclude the operation.
Reiterates Hydrex’s Efficiency
Both these operations are good examples of how Hydrex uses its experience and know-how to offer the best solution for a specific situation. In the first example an underwater seal replacement using our flexible mobdock technique was the only option, but for the second vessel trimming was more efficient.
Why Choose Hydrex?
The company aims to reduce cost and off- hire time for customers while maintaining the highest safety and quality standards of repair and maintenance. This is true whether the scope of work entails a smaller operation with a limited time-frame, or more complex repairs that usually take a lot more planning and require the construction of specific equipment.
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Source: Hydrex
