A joint development project (JDP) between classification society ABS and Nakilat – Keppel Offshore & Marine (N-KOM) in Qatar will look to examine how recently developed techniques for performing remote surveys of vessels in service can be applied to surveys and inspections in the shipyard, with the parties set to begin a trial programme.
Remote inspection technologies will be applied to six class surveys for the trial, to test how they can be used to verify the required survey or inspection by ABS surveyors, to optimise scheduling and minimise downtime for the shipyard, vessels and the class society.
This will include examination of how remote techniques can be carried out on rudder clearance inspection, stern tube weardown inspection, rudder plug opening inspection, boiler safety valve testing, fit-up inspections prior to welding, and final weld visual inspection of non-critical items.
“We are taking our leadership in remote survey of operational vessels and applying that experience and insight to the shipyard,” said Patrick Ryan, ABS Senior Vice President, Global Engineering and Technology.
“Together with our partners, we are committed to advancing safety and efficiency to augment surveys after construction with the application of the latest digital techniques. The potential of these technologies is significant and, while we will begin with these initial six survey items, over time, as the approach is proven, we can potentially expand the scope.”
