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The impressive process of repairing huge ships inside dry docks and shipyards

Written by Rafaela Fabris
Published 07/06/2024 às 09:39
The impressive process of repairing huge ships inside shipyards
Repairing giant ships in a shipyard is an impressive operation that involves advanced techniques and careful planning. Image: Fluctus/Disclosure

Repairing giant ships in a shipyard is an impressive operation that involves advanced techniques and careful planning. This process guarantees the maintenance and safety of these vessels essential for global transport.

Ships, like any other structure that spend long periods in the water, accumulate unwanted organisms, such as algae and small animals. This phenomenon, called biofouling, increases the drag of ships, reducing their speed and causing damage to the hull, which leads to expensive repairs. To solve this problem, shipyards apply a special paint called antifouling.

The repair process begins with preparing the hull surface. Experts clean and polish the area, removing rust and traces of biofouling. On large ships such as aircraft carriers and freighters, this is crucial to ensure the new coat of paint adheres. With the surface clean, the team applies antifouling paint using spray guns or rollers, depending on the size of the ship.

Modern antifouling paints are more complex and environmentally friendly than older ones, which used toxic substances such as arsenic and mercury.

Today, coatings use polymers such as silicone or epoxy, as well as natural enzymes and copper compounds that prevent the formation of mollusk colonies in the hull. Another crucial aspect at the shipyard is the maintenance of ballast tanks, which help maintain the stability of ships.

These tanks are regularly inspected to detect corrosion, cracks or deformation. Drones are often used in these inspections as they can access tight spaces safely and efficiently. Advanced techniques such as ultrasonic detection help identify problems early.

During ship construction or after inspections, ballast tanks are given a layer of epoxy paint to protect against corrosion. Application is done with high pressure sprayers, which guarantee uniform and efficient coverage.

The shipyard is a place where technology and manual skill meet. Marine painters, who specialize in working with steel surfaces, use sophisticated equipment to apply the necessary coatings, extending the life of ships and ensuring their safe operation.

Shipyard ship repair is a vital and highly specialized which involves everything from cleaning and preparing the hull to applying advanced coatings. This meticulous work ensures that ships continue to operate efficiently and safely on the world's seas.

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James Luiz
James Luiz
08/06/2024 08:21

I liked it a lot. Congratulations on the work

Rafaela Fabris

It discusses innovation, renewable energy, oil and gas. With over 1.200 articles published in CPG, it provides daily updates on opportunities in the Brazilian job market.

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