In recent months, Hydrex specialized diver/technician teams have traveled to key ports around the world—including Port of Spain (Trinidad), Batangas (the Philippines), Rotterdam (the Netherlands), and Dunkirk (France)—to execute urgent hull repairs. These operations demonstrate the versatility and precision of shell plating repairs performed by expert teams trained to handle a wide range of challenges.
Versatile teams
Our diving teams combine underwater cofferdam installations with dry welding inside the vessel to execute class-approved hull repairs. Both aspects of the operation are carried out by the same team of in-house trained diver/welders, which makes for a very efficient operation, saving time and expense for the shipowner.
Insert repairs in Trinidad and the Philippines
In Port of Spain, a 164-meter chemical tanker required an insert on the bottom plating of its starboard ballast tank. This area had already had a temporary repair, but needed a permanent solution so it could continue to sail without the expense and downtime of drydocking.

The team began by conducting a detailed inspection, and then installing a cofferdam on the waterside to seal off the affected part of the hull. The damaged plating, located beneath a sounding pipe, was thoroughly prepared for the operation. A 200-mm diameter section of the plating was cut out, with the dimensions determined in consultation with the vessel’s classification society and owner. After prepping the edges of the opening, the new plate was positioned and welded using our full penetration weld procedure.


Once the welding was completed, ultrasonic testing was conducted by an independent inspector. The repair received official approval from the classification surveyor, and the cofferdam was removed, completing the operation.

In Batangas, a similar procedure was applied to a hole in the bilge holding tank of another vessel. The team installed an insert of the same size and completed the repair swiftly and efficiently.
Engine room repairs in Rotterdam and Dunkirk
Closer to home, the team carried out repairs on a 229-meter bulk carrier in Rotterdam and a 154-meter roro vessel in Dunkirk. Both repairs were located in the engine rooms of the vessels and involved damage to key structural areas.

In Rotterdam, a square insert measuring 400 mm by 400 mm was installed, while in Dunkirk, the team addressed multiple damaged areas with an insert of a more complex shape—measuring 850 mm x 760 mm x 500 mm. Despite the variations, the same high-standard procedures were followed, ensuring swift and effective results.

Delivering excellence every time
Our diver/technicians bring unparalleled expertise to every operation, whether it’s a straightforward repair or a complex challenge. Each repair is conducted using proprietary procedures developed in-house and approved by major classification societies. Full technical support, supervision and coordination is provided from our headquarters in Antwerp where needed. These standards ensure that vessels can continue their operations without unnecessary delays.
If you have any questions regarding a possible hull 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