The key dynamics of the dry bulk carrier market – availability, flexibility and reliability — mean that uninterrupted operations are essential for these vessels to stay competitive, writes Vasileios Gkikas, ABS Director, Business Development, Global Bulk Carriers.
In addition to the fundamental principles of safe operations, effective maintenance and efficient troubleshooting are key to ensuring vessels can be operated without interruption.
Starting as early as the design stage, at ABS we review the specifications and qualify any new technologies to be applied. At the construction stage, we consider the wide range of designs, processes, material and equipment certifications, as well as detailed structural assessments that are fundamental across the full range of shipyards, including smaller facilities.
ABS’s enhanced survey scheme during vessel construction helps ensure a high level of quality assurance. Our expertise in specific domains like Shaft Alignment which can lead to the granting of the Enhanced Shaft Alignment notation to indicate a vessel that has undergone a more detailed and rigorous process, aiming to improve powertrain service life and minimize potential issues.
Once the vessel is on the water, our global network of experienced surveyors continues to provide 24/7 support to owners for any issues they may encounter, ranging from a simple equipment malfunction to more serious incidents. ABS has also been working to study the implementation of advanced repair procedures that can be applied in situations where a repair site is inaccessible to our teams.
Operational support is enhanced using remote surveys which provide either a complementary means of inspection or an equivalent standalone solution where immediate attention is required, and physical attendance is not feasible. ABS is already working on several pilot projects for the use of drones going beyond close-up surveys to perform thickness measurements. ABS has also established a Condition Assessment Program for Bulk Carriers, which is already proving of interest to market stakeholders.
When it comes to specific technology employed onboard such as cranes, exhaust gas scrubbers or ballast water treatment, our certification scheme helps to ensure compliance.
For non-standard cargo loading (steel coils, containers, wind turbine blades on deck), ABS has developed review and approval methods and processes to promptly address these requests usually with the need for swift approval.
With regard to Port State Control (PSC) inspections, ABS holds the leading position over the last couple of years in global PSC league table performance, mainly due to the establishment of a set of internal processes and procedures as well as programs and training that allow owners and operators to better prepare for inspections especially at some critical locations such as Australia, China, and North America.
Recognizing the specific importance of the Pilbara region in western Australia for the more than 400 capesize bulk carriers currently in its classed fleet, ABS has established a permanent survey station providing on the spot the support at the key dry bulk terminals of Port Hedland, Dampier and Walcott.
Last but not least, ABS’ digital ecosystem provides clients with comprehensive information concerning their fleet, including the latest regulatory and port state information. Users receive relevant alerts, can access rule and regulatory references and manage full control in their day-to-day operations with the ability to anticipate and plan surveys, issue customized checklists, including full access to vessels’ documentation and certificates online via a dedicated web portal.