Hatch Covers: Operation, Testing and Maintenance

The correct operation, care and maintenance of hatch covers are critical to a ship’s safety and its ability to carry cargo without damage. This publication explains the complexities of the structure and the machinery, repairs and surveys required to ensure ongoing safety and efficiency.

During the publication process, this book was reviewed by a number of experts and interested parties, including the SKULD P&I Club who provided access to their archives to obtain a number of case studies.

1 Why Hatch Covers are Fitted to Ships

2 Background to the Design of Hatch Covers

3 Ship Construction to Accommodate Hatch Covers

4 Different Designs for Different Cargoes

5 Hatch Cover Types

6 The Differences Between Watertightness and Weathertightness

7 Care and Maintenance of Hatch Covers

8 Reasons for Hatch Cover Testing by Various Organisations and the Role of the Marine Surveyor in these Tests

9 The Various Hatch Cover Testing Methods

10 The Use of Ultrasound Testing Equipment, Principles and Operation of the varied Equipment Available on the Market

11 Client Approval of Ultrasound Testing Equipment and Operators

12 Common Defects Found when Hatch Cover Testing

13 Repairs to Hatch Covers

Case Studies

Case Study 1: Hatch covers leaking in gale force winds

Case Study 2: Leaking hatch covers – damaged steel coils cargo

Case Study 3: Water ingress through hatch covers on a refrigerated vessel

Case Study 4: Port of refuge required

Case Study 5: Oil leakage from the hatch hydraulic system on to the cargo

Case Study 6: Water damage due to leaking hatch covers

Case Study 7: Alleged wet damage to frozen krill

Case Study 8: Water damage to fishmeal cargo

Case Study 9: Steel cargo damage – ship sweat and sea water

Case Study 10: Water-soaked cargo

Appendices

Appendix 1: Resolution MSC.169(79), Standards for Owners’ Inspection and Maintenance of Bulk Carrier Hatch Covers

Appendix 2: Table Showing Comparison of Ultrasound Equipment

Mike Wall joined Cunard Line as a marine engineer apprentice at the age of seventeen, eventually reaching the rank of Chief Engineer, with service aboard many different types of ship.

During his career Mike obtained a Class 1 marine engineer’s certificate of competency, a Bachelor of Science in Maritime Studies and Master of Science degree in Shipping and Maritime Studies. Experience was gained in most areas of shipping with eight years as a lecturer in Maritime Studies, culminating in five years as Senior Lecturer as Warsash College of Maritime Studies, UK.

Twenty years’ experience was gained then in hull, machinery, cargo and condition surveys in the USA, New Zealand, Fiji and South East Asia. Mike is also a qualified Mediator, registered both in the UK and Hong Kong.