MV MEERA 1Six Days to Seaworthiness

Overview

The drydocking of the vessel MV MEERA 1 at our facility was conducted over a six-day period, from March 2, 2022, to March 7, 2022. During this time, a series of critical maintenance and repair activities were carried out to enhance the vessel’s operational efficiency and ensure its seaworthiness. Below is a detailed overview of the works executed

Propeller and Seal Housing Repairs

Propeller Replacement

The port and starboard side propellers were removed and replaced. This process included securing the shaft nuts to ensure the proper alignment and functionality of the new propellers

Rope Guards Replacement

The rope guards on both the port and starboard sides were removed and replaced. This was essential for protecting the propellers from entanglement and ensuring smooth operation

Seal Housing Repairs

The seal housings on both sides were extensively repaired. This included removing the housings, extracting the old seals, and removing the stainless steel sleeves for further repairs. The housings were thoroughly cleaned before new seals were installed. The stainless steel oil-retaining sleeves were then reinstalled, and oil was added back to the reservoir to maintain the system’s integrity

Machining and Welding

Two Schedule 80 pipes, each measuring 10.5 inches, were machined and inserted into the stainless steel oil-retaining sleeves on both the port and starboard sides. This step was crucial in preventing any changes in shape that could compromise the seals. The outer diameters of the stainless steel sleeves were welded and machined to fit the new seals precisely, ensuring a tight and secure fit as per the required specifications

Hull and Structural Repairs

Hull Plating and Tank Repairs

A section of the hull within the port side wing tank was cropped and replaced to address any structural weaknesses or corrosion. Doubler plates were applied in the starboard side fuel tank and the starboard side wing tank on the hull plate to reinforce areas where holes or corrosion were detected

Gate and Manhole Cover Repairs:

The starboard side gate for the dredge suction pipe was repaired to prevent leaking when closed, ensuring the vessel’s operational efficiency during dredging activities. The starboard side manhole cover was opened, replaced, and resealed to maintain the integrity of the tank and prevent leaks

Fuel Tank Maintenance

The fuel tank covers were opened and closed to allow access for cleaning and repairs. The starboard side fuel tank was thoroughly cleaned to facilitate welding repairs. This process involved degreasing, hand washing with soap, and pressure washing to remove all oil sediments from the tank walls

Painting and Coating

All patches that were inserted and welded onto the hull were painted to protect the newly repaired areas from corrosion and wear

Testing and Reporting

Ultrasonic Testing:

Ultrasonic testing was conducted on the hull of the vessel, with a total of 518 shots taken to assess the thickness and integrity of the hull plating. A detailed report was provided to document the findings and ensure compliance with safety standards

Gallery