What Are Underwater Welding Procedures? | Safe and Certified Applications
Underwater welding is a specialized technique used to repair cracks, holes, and structural damage on marine vessels without the need for dry-docking. These operations are performed by certified commercial divers using specialized equipment in accordance with international standards. Underwater welding procedures must follow strict safety and quality guidelines.
What Is Underwater Welding?
There are two main types of underwater welding: wet welding and dry welding. In wet welding, the electrode and weld area are directly exposed to water, while dry welding uses a dry habitat to isolate the welding zone from the surrounding water. The choice of method depends on the repair type and vessel’s operational needs.
Procedure Steps
- The damaged area is inspected and measured.
- The welding type and electrode (typically AWS E6013 or E7014) are selected.
- Permissions and class approvals are obtained.
- The surface is cleaned and ground if necessary.
- A certified diver performs the welding operation.
- Post-weld testing is carried out (ultrasonic, penetrant tests, etc.).
- The entire process is documented and reported.
Equipment Used
- Waterproof welding machine
- Specially coated welding electrodes
- Diver communication systems
- Underwater lighting and camera systems
- Dry habitat enclosures
Safety and Certification
Underwater welding can only be performed by certified underwater welders. All applications must comply with international standards such as ISO 15618-1 and EN 15614, and be approved by classification societies (e.g., LR, BV, DNV). Detailed risk assessments are also required before and after the operation.
Advantages
- Minimizes vessel downtime
- Reduces the need for dry-docking
- Avoids costly component replacements
- Provides reliable, permanent solutions on-site
Conclusion
Underwater welding procedures are crucial for ensuring safety, reliability, and efficiency in marine maintenance. When conducted by experts using the proper techniques, they offer long-term structural integrity and reduced operational disruption.