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Ship repair & maintenance

Thruster removal and repair

Hydrex was the first company to show that it was possible to remove and then replace thrusters by creating a dry environment underwater. Using steel mobdocks to seal off the thruster tunnel, with an access shaft protruding above the water, work teams accessed the thruster tunnel and removed or repaired the thruster within the tunnel in complete safety, in conditions similar to above water.

We have now developed this technology further using lightweight flexible mobdocks which can be easily fitted around both ends of the thruster tunnel. Once the water has been removed, technicians can work within the thruster tunnel. The entire thruster can be removed after the connecting area to the ship has been sealed off. The thruster is then sent to the manufacturer for repair. The overhauled thruster is later brought back to the ship, even if it has sailed to a different port in the meantime and is reinstalled.

There is no need to send the vessel to drydock as all operations can be carried out in port, or while the vessel is stationary at sea, and her normal activities can therefore continue without disruption.

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