For any company specializing in the carrying of bulk goods, it’s imperative that every ship in the fleet be cargo-worthy, and one of the most important aspects of this, is having watertight hatch covers.
Thankfully, with the help of the latest technology in watertightness testing, you can now use ultrasonic equipment and techniques to check your hatch covers for leaks, and you can find more information about this on our website: www.caltraco.com. But should you be using ultrasonic testing?
Here’s how your company can benefit from ultrasonic hatch cover testing
There are several factors that make this type of testing the most beneficial when it comes to checking watertightness on cargo ship hatch covers, and at its core, the ease at which testing can be carried out is arguably its’ most significant advantage. By not having to fit in a hose test when the hold is empty of goods, you can save a lot of time, too, and there are other benefits, such as:
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Ultrasonic testing can be carried out with full cargo
Having no impact on the test reading, it can be carried out even when the hold is full of cargo
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Climate doesn’t affect testing
Leak detection systems such as ultrasonic testing can be carried out and its results trusted, even in sub-zero temperatures
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It’s quick
Taking only a matter of minutes to conduct, ultrasonic testing is much quicker than other testing methods
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It’s accurate and fast
With this type of testing, any leaks in a hatch cover can be pinpointed to a degree of accuracy, and the results are fast and accurate, with instant feedback from the equipment alerting you to any failures
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Test can be conducted anywhere
Because there’s no pollution involved in this type of test, and no impact on any other parties, there will be no limitations placed upon you by port authorities and it can take place anywhere
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It’s a one-person show
With only one person required to carry out the test, it’s easy and convenient to carry out
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It can be carried out during transit
Ultrasonic testing can even be carried out mid-voyage, with a sea crossing already underway
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Test results are widely accepted
Not only is this type of testing widely accepted by both insurers and the relevant authorities, but is also requested in many instances
How exactly does an ultrasonic hatch cover test work?
With the help of ultrasonic equipment, ultrasonic tests are carried out on hatch covers to check whether any leaks are present. Devices are placed in the cargo hold that emit sounds having a frequency of more than 20 kHz, and trained operators can then activate them and measure to what degree the sound leaks through the hatch covers. A report is then immediately generated.
While other tests, such as water hose and chalk, can help highlight whether there’s any contact between the rubber packing and the compression bar, the use of ultrasonic testing gives a much clearer and accurate picture of whether the necessary levels of compression to keep the seals watertight and cargo dry during a voyage, are present.
So, to ensure your cargo stays in tip top condition from the minute it’s loaded, to the minute it arrives at its destination, use ultrasonic testing for your hatch covers.
