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How is it possible to weld underwater? An impressive feat of offshore engineering

Written by Rafaela Fabris
Published 26/03/2024 às 10:02
How is it possible to weld underwater? An impressive feat of offshore engineering
Underwater welding Photo: Disclosure/OceanCorp

Underwater welding: an essential technique for offshore repair and construction faces challenges of depth, pressure and safety, dominated by the welding class.

Underwater welding, an impressive feat of offshore engineering, pushes boundaries by enabling repair and maintenance work at ocean depths. Used in structures such as ships, gas pipelines, oil pipelines and oil platforms, This technique is essential for the industry maritime and energy.

This highly specialized process, known as underwater welding, involves significant risks and requires advanced equipment. Underwater arc welding is the most common, operating with alternating or direct current, where the main equipment is on the surface, and the diver-welder works underwater, guided by radio communication.

Underwater welding details

In underwater welding, direct current is preferred due to its efficiency and less impact on weld quality with depth. The process also includes measures to counter the effects of water and pressure, which can deteriorate the weld, such as the use of coated electrodes that form a protective gas curtain during welding.

The challenges of underwater welding go beyond the technique itself. The welders face adverse conditions such as reduced visibility, risks of hypothermia due to low water temperatures and dangers related to underwater pressure. Protective equipment and decompression techniques are essential to ensure safe and effective work.

In addition to wet welding, dry welding offers a high-quality alternative for work at greater depths. This approach uses special chambers to isolate the work area from water, allowing for high-precision and high-resistance welding.

The future of offshore welding

Underwater welding is a vital skill in the maintenance and construction of marine infrastructure, with techniques that continue to evolve to meet the challenges of the offshore environment. The welding class demonstrates not only technical competence, but also courage and innovation, ensuring the durability and safety of underwater structures in the offshore world.

In Brazil, the salary of an underwater welder varies greatly, depending on the experience, certifications and complexity of the projects they work on, especially in offshore operations in the oil and gas industry. On average, an underwater welder can earn between R$2.000 and R$5.000 per month, depending on the Glassdoor. Highly qualified professionals, working on specific projects or extreme conditions, can achieve salaries above this range, especially when they involve work in deep waters or high-risk conditions.

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Rafaela Fabris

Talks about innovation, renewable energy, oil and gas. Updates daily on opportunities in the Brazilian job market.

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