Introduction:
Water ingress can pose significant risks to cargo during transportation, resulting in potential damage and financial losses. It is crucial for businesses involved in international trade to understand the implications of water damage and how it relates to insurance claims. We will explore the dangers of water ingress, its impact on cargo, and the key considerations when filing an insurance claim.
in pic: Water ingress on board ships can be devastating, to crew, vessel and cargo
in pic: Vessel takes huge wave over bow In heavy weather
The Threat of Water Ingress:
Water ingress occurs when moisture enters containers, cargo holds, or packaging, jeopardizing the integrity of goods. It can lead to various types of damage, including corrosion, mold growth, product deterioration, and even complete loss.
Causes of Water Ingress:
Improper container sealing, faulty packaging, or inadequate securing of cargo can allow water to penetrate during transportation. Severe weather conditions, such as heavy rain, storms, or rough seas, can also contribute to water ingress.
Impact on Cargo:
Water damage can render products unsellable, resulting in financial losses for businesses. Damaged goods may require disposal, replacement, or extensive repairs, leading to additional costs and delays. Some examples include oxidation and corrosion of metal products, spoiling and mold damage to organic cargoes, caking or liquefaction of minerals, and damage to high-value manufactured goods. Additionally, some cargoes may react dangerously with water or produce highly acidic chemicals that can attack the steel structure of the cargo hold.
Insurance Coverage and Claims:
Marine cargo insurance is essential to protect against water ingress and other risks during transit. When filing an insurance claim, accurate documentation, including evidence of the condition of goods before and after transportation, is crucial. Ultrasonic testing is a quantifiable method of determining watertightness of the cargo hold before transportation is accepted by classification societies and various insurers.
Mitigating Water Ingress Risks:
Proper packaging and securing of cargo can minimize the likelihood of water ingress. Regular inspections, maintenance, and repairs of shipping containers and vessels are necessary to ensure their watertight integrity.
Ultrasonic testing recommended by P&I clubs:
- UK P&I (Click here to read the complete document)
Cargo wetting damage claims continue to be a concern for insurers, despite improvements in maintenance. Expensive claims and devastating impact of water damage to cargo, as indicated in the UK P&I club document, highlight the need for proper maintenance and checking of cargo-related fittings. Insurance premiums have increased due to incidents, emphasizing the importance of proper testing such as using ultrasonic methods, as recommended in the document for ensuring watertight integrity.
- Swedish P&I (Click here to read the complete document)
In 2017, cargo claims affected 34% of insured bulk carriers, showing a significant 75% increase compared to 2014. The average cost per cargo claim for bulk carriers was close to USD 70,000. Among these claims, wet damage was the second most common and costly, with an average cost of almost USD 110,000. Leaking hatch covers, often associated with heavy weather, were identified as the primary cause of wet damage, allowing seawater to enter the cargo hold. Ensuring weathertightness and proper maintenance of sealing systems and cargo hatch covers are essential preventive measures.
- CariMar P&I (Click here to read the complete document)
Caribbean Marine and P&I USA Inc. praises the Coltraco Ultrasonics’ Portascanner® WATERTIGHT PLUS for insurance claims surveys, reducing testing time and enhancing safety. The device has been utilized for P&I Club surveys, cargo worthiness assessments, and damage evaluations. Ultrasonic testing with the Portascanner® has resulted in cost savings, faster cargo loading, and minimized water ingress risks, benefiting owners and cargo interests.
in pic: Portascanner® WATERTIGHT PLUS Main Unit and Generator
in pic: Portascanner® WATERTIGHT PLUS in the box
Overcoming Challenges with Portascanner® WATERTIGHT PLUS:
- Enhanced Accuracy: The Portascanner® WATERTIGHT PLUS detects leaks as small as 0.06 mm, ensuring comprehensive testing.
- Advanced Testing Modes: Utilizing linear, decibel (dB), and open-hatch modes, this ultrasonic hatch cover tester provides precise monitoring.
- Multi-Directional Transducer: The instrument’s multi-directional transducer allows for optimized testing, regardless of the size of the structure being inspected.
- Flexible Sensor Wand: With a flexible sensor wand, operators can access tight and difficult-to-reach areas, ensuring thorough inspections.
- User-Friendly Design: The Portascanner® WATERTIGHT PLUS features an intuitive interface, allowing for easy mode switching and efficient operation.
- Minimal Training Required: Operators can effectively use the ultrasonic testing equipment with minimal training, saving time and resources.
- Handheld and Portable: The Portascanner® WATERTIGHT PLUS is a handheld and portable device, enabling regular testing with the crew in situ.
Conclusion:
The Portascanner® WATERTIGHT PLUS offers advanced features, enhanced accuracy, and user-friendly functionality, making it an invaluable tool for marine industry professionals. By utilizing this ultrasonic testing equipment, businesses can overcome the challenges posed by water ingress, ensuring the integrity of watertight and weathertight seals on ships, including vessel’s hatch covers and cargo holds. With its versatility, reliability, and ease of use, the Portascanner® WATERTIGHT PLUS provides unparalleled accuracy in detecting leaks and vulnerabilities, thereby mitigating the risks associated with water damage during transportation.
