Class rules generally require two bottom inspections in every five-year class cycle, with no more than about 36 months between them. One of these may be an in-water survey (UWILD) if the class society and the ship's condition allow it.
Kamsar Underwater Services
How often must a ship's hull be inspected under class rules?
How accurate is ultrasonic thickness measurement?
Marine ultrasonic gauges typically read to a resolution of 0.1 mm. The gauge is calibrated on a reference block before each dive, and readings are taken at the points and in the grid that the class society specifies.
How long does a UWILD survey of a bauxite carrier take in Kamsar?
As a planning figure, a Supramax or Panamax bauxite carrier (roughly 190 to 230 m long) needs 1 to 2 working days for a full hull CCTV survey. Poor visibility, heavy growth or extra thickness points can extend this.
When is the survey report delivered?
A preliminary summary is normally given on the day the survey is completed. The full report, with video, photographs and thickness tables, is typically issued within 24 to 48 hours.
At what depth does the diver work on a loaded bauxite carrier?
A fully loaded Supramax or Panamax typically floats at a draft of about 12 to 14 m. Hull inspection therefore takes place within roughly 0 to 14 m, well inside the depth range of normal surface-supplied air diving.
What does UWILD stand for?
UWILD stands for Underwater Inspection in Lieu of Drydocking, an in-water hull examination that a class society may accept in place of an in-dock bottom survey.
How many hull examinations are normally required in five years?
Class rules typically call for two bottom examinations in each five-year class cycle, with one of them in dry dock unless the class society allows UWILD for the specific ship.
What is the usual duration of a UWILD survey in Kamsar?
Allow 1 to 2 working days for a Supramax or Panamax bauxite carrier. Heavy fouling or additional thickness points can add several hours.
How many thickness readings are taken?
The number is set by the class society for the ship's type and age. It is often dozens of readings, each taken on cleaned steel and recorded with its position on the hull.
How fast is the UWILD report issued?
A preliminary summary is given at the end of the survey. The full report is normally issued within 24 to 48 hours.
How soon before arrival should a UWILD request be made?
Class approval often takes several days, so owners usually contact the society at least 1 to 2 weeks before the planned survey.
Does a ship need to be light to be surveyed?
No. A loaded ship can be surveyed in the water, but the diver can only reach the immersed hull. At a draft of 12 to 14 m, the vertical side and bottom are accessible and the upper side is inspected from deck level.
What water temperature should divers expect in Kamsar?
Coastal water in the area is usually warm, around 27 to 30 degrees Celsius, which allows long dive durations but also speeds up marine growth.
What is the maximum interval between bottom examinations?
Class rules generally allow no more than about 36 months between two bottom examinations in a five-year cycle.
Which parts of the hull must be seen in a UWILD?
Typically the full flat bottom and vertical sides, rudder, stern frame, propeller, sea chests and gratings. The surveyor confirms the exact list.
How big is a typical UWILD dive team?
Usually 4 to 6 people: supervisor, one or two working divers, a standby diver, a tender and a boat operator.
Can a UWILD survey be carried out at the Kamsar anchorage area?
Yes. Most surveys take place at anchor, with the ship's draft and trim agreed beforehand, to avoid interfering with berth operations.
What is a typical time for a full hull CCTV survey of a Panamax?
About 8 to 16 working hours, depending on fouling and visibility, so 1 to 2 working days is a safe planning figure.
Can the same team clean and repair the hull?
Yes. Cleaning of selected areas is part of most UWILD surveys, and minor repairs or anode replacement can often be done on the same visit.
How long is a quotation valid?
Quotations are typically valid for 30 days, with scope fixed against the ship's class requirements.