In the ports of Marseille and Rotterdam, our expert diver/welders recently executed vital overboard pipe repairs on two tankers, demonstrating the effectiveness of afloat maintenance techniques. These repairs not only ensured vessel integrity but also offered the shipowners a cost-effective alternative to drydocking.
Repairs in Marseille: A step-by-step approach
The first project took place in Marseille on a 136-meter tanker. Upon arrival, the team performed a thorough inspection of the damaged overboard pipes, assessing both the waterside and onboard areas of the hull. This provided the information needed for the repair strategy.
Inside the ship, preparations for welding commenced while divers installed a custom-designed cofferdam on the exterior hull to seal off the overboard pipe. This allowed the team to create a dry environment to carry out the repairs inside the ship.

The old scrubber overboard pipe was disconnected and removed. The hull plating and the new pipe were then prepared to ensure a correct fit. Using Hydrex’s class-approved welding procedures, the new pipe was welded in place with a full penetration weld.

The welding was verified by an independent inspector. With the test completed, the cofferdam was removed, and a final visual inspection was carried out by the team. A classification society representative, present throughout the process, officially approved the repair.

The inside of the pipes were coated with Ecospeed to protect them against corrosion. This product is produced by Hydrex’s sister company, Subsea Industries (www.subind.net) and is corrosion resistant.
Subsequent repairs in Rotterdam
Several months later, a second overboard pipe on the same vessel was replaced using an identical process, reinforcing the reliability of this approach.
Shortly afterwards, a similar repair was undertaken on a 250-meter tanker in Rotterdam. In this last case, an additional section of the pipe had to be replaced as well.

After many successful pipe repairs, Hydrex now has these repairs down to a fine art. The jobs are completed rapidly and with very consistent results.
Importance of overboard pipe repairs
Any damage to a ship’s overboard pipes can jeopardize the vessel’s structural soundness, posing serious safety risks. Recognizing this, classification societies maintain strict oversight and demand prompt, thorough repairs to address any issues. We have developed the techniques and expertise to carry out many of these repairs with the ship still afloat.

By eliminating the need for drydocking, shipowners can save time and reduce operational disruptions without compromising on safety or the ship’s integrity.
Commitment to excellence
We specialize in providing permanent afloat solutions for overboard pipe repairs and other critical maintenance tasks. Thanks to thorough training, extensive experience and know-how and the use of the best equipment, our divers ensure that every operation meets the highest standards, allowing ships to resume their voyages safely and swiftly.

These repairs in France and the Netherlands are a testament to our commitment to delivering reliable, cost-effective services that prioritize both vessel integrity and uninterrupted vessel operations.
If you have any questions regarding a possible pipe repair, do not hesitate to contact us. We are at your disposal 24/7 and ready to mobilize almost immediately.
+32 3 213 53 00
hydrex@hydrex.be
Click on the images below for more pipe repairs and other case studies.

Underwater bow thruster removal in Rotterdam

Scrubber pipes repaired and given lasting protection

Scrubber overboard pipe repairs in the Netherlands, France and Spain

Scrubber overboard pipe repairs in Rotterdam

Propeller blade cropping in Ghent avoids costly drydocking
