Steel Boat Surveys

Steel craft are typically stiff and strong however they are susceptible to corrosion and so are dependent upon the protection of the coating systems used.  It is important that in turn the coating system is not compromised by details of design, build or repair.

The longevity of a steel boat depends on the initial design of structural elements, the standard of its build and its subsequent maintenance. Construction features necessary on larger steel vessels where both weight and fatigue are amongst the primary concerns of the designer are counter productive if used on small craft. The correct design of welded joints, the preparation of surfaces both for welding and the application of the coating systems are key factors to be considered during build or in the event of modifications and repairs. While steel lends itself to repair it can be, as in the case of leisure craft, that cosmetic requirements are a key consideration and repair costs escalate out of proportion to those necessitated purely by the structural repairs.

Ultrasonic Thickness Measurement (UTM) of plating is basic to the condition survey of a steel hull and we are equipped to undertake these measurements and do so cost effectively on hulls to about 15m.

Generalised thinning of plating and structure over the life of the boat should have been anticipated by scantlings and so should not be problematic within the limits of the corrosion allowance. Where the allowance is not readily specified experience of the type of craft and the applicable rule sets allow a conservative judgement of diminution to be made. Localised corrosion mechanisms are of greater concern and it is crucial that these are recognised and the appropriate remediation identified.