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Hatch Cover Maintenance Guide

Hatch covers play a critical role in preventing water ingress into cargo holds. Leaking or poorly maintained hatch covers can lead to cargo damage or even ship flooding and loss. Proper inspection and maintenance of hatch covers is required to ensure they remain watertight. Key aspects that must be regularly checked include steel-to-steel contact surfaces, rubber seals, cleats, and the overall structure for corrosion or defects. Even minor issues like a few millimeters of wear or sag can compromise the watertight integrity of hatch covers. Vigilant inspection and prompt repair is needed to safely operate the vessel in all weather.

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Ajay W Dhiman
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100% found this document useful (3 votes)
1K views20 pages

Hatch Cover Maintenance Guide

Hatch covers play a critical role in preventing water ingress into cargo holds. Leaking or poorly maintained hatch covers can lead to cargo damage or even ship flooding and loss. Proper inspection and maintenance of hatch covers is required to ensure they remain watertight. Key aspects that must be regularly checked include steel-to-steel contact surfaces, rubber seals, cleats, and the overall structure for corrosion or defects. Even minor issues like a few millimeters of wear or sag can compromise the watertight integrity of hatch covers. Vigilant inspection and prompt repair is needed to safely operate the vessel in all weather.

Uploaded by

Ajay W Dhiman
Copyright
© © All Rights Reserved
We take content rights seriously. If you suspect this is your content, claim it here.
Available Formats
Download as DOCX, PDF, TXT or read online on Scribd

CULT OF SEA

Hatch Covers – Function, Inspection,


Tests, Precautions, Operation,
Maintenance
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Introduction
It is generally accepted that leaking hatch covers are a principal cause of dry cargo
wetting. Hatches leak for a variety of reasons, but mainly because of poor maintenance or
failure to close them properly. Leaking or badly maintained hatch covers can lead to more
serious consequences than wet cargo- flooding accelerated corrosion or even loss of the ship.
A watertight hatch cover is a cover designed to prevent the passage of water in either direction
under a head of water for which the surrounding structure is designed. A weathertight cover is a
cover designed to prevent the passage of water into the ship in any sea condition. Hatch covers
are constructed to be weathertight, which means that, in any transient condition, water will not
penetrate into the ship through the covers.
However, it is apparent that minor leakage into a cargo hold during a hatch cover test is often
erroneously considered to be within a weathertight standard in practice, no leakage is the
requirement. Your vessel will also carry oil and hence requirements are more stringent with
respect to water tightness. Many mariners think hatches are robust, monolithic structures,
thereby failing to appreciate the small tolerances on housing and gasket compression.
For example, a 4 mm wear on the steel-to-steel contact pads is sufficient to damage rubber
sealing gaskets beyond repair; 5mm sag along the length of the gasket can cause a large gap
between the compression bar and gasket.
It is better to think of the hatches as complex, finely –made structures, to be handled with
care. It is our aim here to explain the key issues of hatch cover security and to achieve pro-
active maintenance. It is crucial for safety at sea and protection of the environment to maintain
hatch cover water tightness and strength. Please see the Appendix 2 and 3 for checklists on
hatch maintenance and PMS.
Example Description of Hatch Covers
Manufacturer SEOHAE MARINE SYSTEMS
Complies With ICLL AND IACS URS21 [REV.4]
Operational Parameters CONSTRAINTS
Max Heel  +/-3 DEGREES
Max Trim +/- 2 DEGREES [ abt 5.5 mtrs]
Material MILD STEEL 50% AND GRADE 36 HIGH TENSILE 50%

Operation
Each hatch cover is operated by 1 hydraulic motor via rack and pinion driving system installed
in the  middle of the port side. All hatches roll open to the port side. The control stands are
located at the aft transverse coamings between the hatches.
Nominal Hatch Dimensions
1F        11,400 X 17,100 /13280 mm
The other 9 hatches are of equal dimensions: 17,100 x 19000 mm.
Wheels
Wheels are made of high tensile steel material and the forward hatch wheels are provided with
rail flanges whilst the aft wheels do not have these rail flanges in order allow for a degree of free
movement.
Hatch Packing
Weather Tightness: Solid Type Packing [NBR]
The rubber packing’s are installed in retaining channels made from hot rolled flat bar.
Compression Bar
Is made of stainless steel with round top flat bar [ sus 304] on hatch coaming top.
Weights
Each Hatch Cover ABOUT 73 MT
Hardware ABOUT 6 MT
Additional Hardware ABOUT 8 MT
Total Approx Weight of Hatch Cover ∞ 75MT
The Cargo Cranes have a SWL of 30MT.
Hatch Covers and their Function 
The purpose and function of a hatch cover and its coaming is to prevent ingress of water into a
cargo hold after a large opening has been cut in the deck for cargo access. Hatch covers are a
movable structure designed to a weathertight standard.
Hatch Cover Construction
Typically hatch covers are lightweight steel grillages. Modern design methods using finite
element technology enable more efficient material distribution which results in lighter (thinner)
structures. Construction from high tensile steel results in even thinner plate being used. For this
reason these lightweight structures must be ‘handled with care’. Prevention of corrosion is
essential-safety margins are finite.
Hatch Cover Function
Hatch covers provide a primary structural and watertight barrier to prevent water ingress into
cargo hold. Rigorous inspection, regular maintenance and prompt repair of damaged covers,
securings and support are essential to maintain fitness for purpose and, in particular
 To maintain sufficient strength to resist green seas landing on hatches in extreme
weather
 To maintain a barrier against ingress of water during normal seagoing weather conditions
Failure to maintain hatch covers correctly can lead to physical loss of a cover in extreme
weather and hold flooding and possible foundering. Minor leakage can cause cargo damage
and, if over a prolonged period , damage to the ship ‘s internal structure . Long-term structural
decline can lead to structural collapse and total loss.

Fig 1:  Support Pads and Landing Pads Making Steel to Steel Contact

Basic Procedures
Always Do
1. Carry out regular inspections of the hatch covers, beams and coamings to identify
 General levels of corrosion
 Localized corrosion at welds
 Cracks in joints and weld metal
 Any permanent distortion of plating and stiffeners.
2. If any cracks detected in main structural joints or local heavy buckling then inform office
immediately
2. Be particularly vigilant after heavy weather.
2. Always rectify any steel to steel faults before renewal of rubber packing, else rubber
packing will be ruined very shortly thereafter
2. Always replace missing or damaged rubber packing’s immediately. [ THE MINIMUM
LENGTH OF REPLACED PACKING SHOULD BE ONE METRE ]
2. Keep cleats in good serviceable condition and correctly adjusted.
2. Keep cleats, and wheels well greased
2. Test hydraulic oil quarterly
2. Ensure oil levels are correct
2. Remember that continuing and regular maintenance of hatch covers and packing’s is
more effective and hence less expensive than sporadic inspection and major repairs.
Always
 Never treat temporary repairs as if these were permanent. The strength of the hatch
cover and ultimately the ship will depend on the quality of repairs . REMEMBER YOUR
SHIP WILL ALSO CARRY OIL HENCE TAKE GREAT CARE OVER REPAIRS.
 Never ignore serious corrosion, cracks or distortions in the covers and
supports/coamings.
 Never APPLY PETROLEUM BASED GREASE OR PAINT ON RUBBER PACKING
 Never leave cleats unfastened when proceeding to sea
 Never open hatch covers at sea unless absolutely essential or keep them unattended if
opened. Ensure the gains outweigh the risks. [ Hatch covers weigh about 78 mt each]

Some Misconceptions about Hatch Covers 


 HATCH COVERS ARE NON LOAD BEARING
Hatch covers can be subjected to very high pressure loadings during heavy weather. This
heavy load induces significant stresses at the component plating, girders and stiffeners.
 LEAKAGE IS AN INCONVENIENCE RESULTING IN CARGO WETTING
Leakage where unchecked causes severe flooding and endangers the ship and its personnel
when v/l in dry mode and when carrying oil, it will result in oil and gas leaks/pollution etc.
 RENEWAL OF RUBBER SEAL/WILL KEEP THE HATCH WATER/OIL TIGHT
Worn rubber is usually the result of worn steel to steel contact surfaces or a deformed structure.
Rubber renewal alone is futile unless the steel to steel contact surface is repaired.
 THE HATCH COVER SIDE PLATE WHEN CLOSED SHOULD REST ON THE
COAMING TOP.
If the weight of the hatch is sufficient to cause distortion on its side plate [ hatch skirt] then
landing pads are fitted to the panel to transfer the weight across the coaming top which is so on
your vessel.
 HATCH COVERS WILL ALWAYS LEAK IN HEAVY WEATHER

Related Article:   Hatch Cover and Access Lids

Hatch covers are designed to withstand the rigours of the sea. Provided the cleats are correctly
adjusted, hatch gaskets are in good condition and the construction material sound then hatch
covers should not leak regardless of the weather.
 SCREWING CLEATS DOWN HARD WILL ENSURE WEATHER TIGHTNESS
No amount of tightening of cleats beyond their correct position will improve hatch cover weather
tightness. The hatch covers are factory tested without engaging cleats. The weight of the hatch
is sufficient to create the required gasket compression. [ Hatch covers need to be cleated for
protection against excessive movement]
 USAGE OF HATCH COVER TAPES WILL ENSURE WATER TIGHTNESS
The use of sealant tape gives a false sense of security. Hatch Cover tape is short term
temporary measure that can be used to stop water/oil from entering/escaping  side joints. In bad
weather sealing tape can be washed off and when used with a certain amount of success will
only result in the hatch being weather tight and not oil/water tight.
Leakage Problems
Most leakage problems occur because of poor maintenance. Although robust. Hatch covers will
leak if compression surfaces are not aligned correctly, or gaskets damaged or worn,and if there
is a permanent overall distortion of the covers.
Maintenance of the Hatch Cover Structure
Corrosion reduces the strength of a hatch cover. Reduced strength gives rise to increased
deflection and possible loss of the steel to steel contact when a hatch cover is loaded due to
green seas. If corrosion is advanced it can weaken a hatch cover to the point when moderate
seas loading causes permanent deformation and permanent loss of the steel to steel contact.
Maintenance of the Steel to Steel contact surfaces
Hatch covers are defined to make steel to steel contact between a defined part of the hatch
cover and coaming when closed. This steel to steel contact determines the amount of
compression  between the hatch gasket and compression bar. Contact might be nothing more
than the hatch skirt sitting on the metal landing pads. (See Fig 1)
When the hatch landing pad is worn, pressure on the hatch gasket (rubber packing) increases.
If this wear is greater than 4mm, increased pressure on the gasket will cause damage . Landing
pad repair is essential.
Maintenance of Rubber Packing – Aged Gaskets
Ozone in the atmosphere accelerates ageing of  rubber. If it becomes hard and loses elasticity,
the entire length the of aged gasket should be replaced. Place spare rubber packings in a well
ventilated store within the accommodation.
Maintenance of Landing Pads
The size and dimensions of a landing pad are dependent on the size and weight of the hatch
cover. Landing pads are normally located  adjacent to cleats. The pads are fitted to the top of
the coaming and to the side of the hatch panel. Landing pads should always be repaired to their
original design height
Leak Detection Tests
 The two most common leak detection tests are:
1. Water Hose Leak Detection Test.
2. Ultrasonic Test. Ultrasonic testing is the preferred method because areas of inadequate
hatch sealing are accurately located.
3. Chalk Test. Chalk testing (another hatch test) gives only an indication of poor
compression and potential leaks. Chalk testing is not a leak detection test. Light testing is
also effective but is potentially dangerous because personnel are in a closed, dark  hold
looking for light infiltration. If hatches are found to leak during a test, make the necessary
repairs , then test again.
Water Hose Leak Detection Test
Water hose test is used to determine weather tightness of hatch covers. If correctly performed,
hose testing will show hatch joints that leak.
The general procedure for hose testing is to apply a powerful jet of water from a 20-50 mm
diameter hose fitted with a 12mm diameter nozzle held at a distance of 1-1.5meters from a
hatch joint at a speed of 1 metre every 2 seconds.
The drawback of hose testing are :
 The hold needs to be empty
 It cannot be performed in sub-zero conditions;
 It requires the deck scupper drains to be open (potentially causing pollution);
 The test cannot pinpoint leaks accurately;
 Two people are needed to supervise the test.
Care should be taken to avoid excessive nozzle back-pressure.

Fig -2 Leak Test By Water


Ultrasonic Leak Detection Test 
Ultrasonic leak detection is a viable alternative to the hose test for testing hatch covers, access
doors and access hatches for weathertightness, as it accurately locates potential points of
leakage . This test should only be carried out using class approved equipment and approved
test procedures.
The test involves placing (with hatches closed and secure ) an electric signal generator inside
the cargo hold. A sensor is then passed around the outside of all compression joints . Readings
taken by the sensor indicate points of low compression or potential points of leakage.
Ultrasonic testing overcomes the majority of limitations associated with hose testing and can be
carried out when holds are loaded.
The drawbacks of ultrasonic leak detection tests are:
 The equipment requires an experienced and specialist operator to interpret the readings;
 The equipment requires regular calibration;
 The equipment is not normally part of the ship’s equipment.
Chalk Testing 
When performing a chalk test. The top edge of every compression bar is covered with chalk.
Hatches are then fully closed and reopened . The rubber packing is examined for a chalk mark,
which should be run continuously along the packings centre. Gaps in the chalk mark indicate
lack of compression. Chalk testing merely indicates the if hatch  is aligned and compression
achieved . It will show whether compression bar is adequate and therefore it is not a test for
weathertightness. 

Monitoring and Inspection


Hatch covers and their fittings should be inspected at the end of every cargo voyage and all
findings recorded. The appended checklist must be used.
Inspections should be planned and held in time for repairs to be completed before the next
cargo voyage Hatch covers and their fittings should be inspected at the end of every cargo
voyage and all findings recorded. The appended checklist no.2 must be used.
Inspections should be planned and held in time for repairs to be completed before the next
cargo voyage
Inspect and Check 
1. Covers and coamings should be well painted and free from significant corrosion, cracks
and distortion.
2. During an inspection look for:
o Holes and permanent distortion in the plating
o Distortion of beams and/or stiffeners on the underside of the top plate.
o Corrosion around welded connections of beams or stiffeners
o Cracking of connecting joints and welds
 Hatch movement . This should be smooth . If violent movement is observed,
investigate and remove the cause.
 Hydraulic system for leakage
 Check for physical damage, corrosion and tension when locked.
Steel Landing Pads
Check for Wear: Worn landing pads will damage hatch gaskets and cause hatch leakage.  Any
deviation is an indication of landing pad wear or permanent distortion. If noted, investigate fully
and repair immediately.
End Stop Pads
Check for Damage: End stop pads prevent hatches from overrunning when hatches are fully
open or closed. Look for physical damage.

Related Article:   Refrigeration Principle, Cargo and Systems

 
Fig-3 End Stop Pad at Closed Position.
Hatch Wheels
Check for Alignment: Hatch wheels should align squarely with the track way. If the wheel axle
is worn the wheel will loll. If it does, repair immediately.

Fig:4 Note Wheel Not Resting On Trackway- Correct example of Hatch Cover Housed Properly – 10
mm Clearance
Rubber Seals
Check For Elasticity, Mechanical Damage And Permanent Deformation: When  hatches are
opened, rubber seals should regain their original shape. If they do not , check for ageing.
Permanent deformation should not exceed 75% of the design compression.
Locking Devices
Check That They Operate: Locking devices are often pins or hooks, these should engage
when the hatch is open. Look for physical damage, rusting and seizure.

Fig-5 Locking Hook And Stop Pad When Hatch Fully Opened
Spares
Rubber packing and adhesive has a limited shelf life, so check the date stamp and discard if
beyond the use –by date. There should be sufficient spare parts (cleats, wedges and gaskets )
to complete planned routine maintenance.  Place spare rubber packing’s in a well ventilated
store within the accommodation.

Maintenance and Repair 


Poor maintenance of hatch covers causes leakage to cargo damage and represents a hazard to
the ship and its crew . Although hatch covers are simple and durable , their sealing gaskets are
easily damaged. The quality of sealing is affected by lack of alignment and poor gasket
compression. When hatch covers are opened at the end of an ocean voyage, look for signs of
leakage such as rust staining or drip marks.
Regular adjustment and repair, by ship’s staff, will reduce the overall cost of maintenance.
Always keep a detailed record of maintenance. Take care during extensive hatch cover repair to
avoid cover distortion.
Rubber Gaskets
Keep clean and free from grease and  paint . If physically damaged , permanently set-in or
aged, replace with minimum one metre lengths. Always follow the manufacturer’s instructions
when renewing gaskets .

Fig -6 Example Of Damaged Rubber Gasket


Fig -7 Another Example Of Damaged Rubber Gasket
Gasket Channels
If gasket channels are badly corroded, causing the hatch packing to hang loose, the packing
should be removed and the channel repaired by welding new metal strips which should be
painted before fitting new rubber. When conducting extensive structural repairs , remove the
hatch covers to shore.
Hatch Cover Structure
Repair or replace any damaged, worn or defective hatch covers or coamings. Consult with the
ship’s classification society before commencing repair. Paint new structure immediately.
Compression Bars
Effective sealing is only possible with a straight, undamaged and non-corroded compression
bar. Ensure compression bar always kept free of corrosion [ it is made of stainless steel and
may be lightly wire brushed] and strictly no painting. Compression bars which are not in this
condition should be repaired or replaced , taking care to align the bars properly. Remember to
carry out a chalk test to check alignment , both during and after repair.
Landing Pads
[See Fig 1] Hatch sealing is arranged by design to give the correct compression of the gasket
when there is metal-to-metal contact on the hatch landing pad, If landing pads are reduced in
height (check with manufacturer’s drawings) because of wear, repair is essential.
Hatch Wheel Trackways
[See Fig 4] Trackways can corrode.  They are weakened by abrasive wear and tear. When
weakened, trackways can distort and break, affecting hatch movement and alignment .
Deterioration is visible to the naked eye . Repair by replacing the worn or damaged material
with sufficient new material to restore strength. Always keep hatch wheel trackways clean and
painted.
It is recommended that after every hatch securing the trackways are scrapped of old loose paint
and rust and a fresh coat of paint applied. This will increase the longevity of a very important
load bearing part of the hatch cover system.
Hatch Coamings
Look for cracks at coaming corners. If any are found, consult the office / ship’s classification
society before commencing repairs in case the coaming needs to be reinforced.
Examine coaming support brackets for corrosion where they connect with the ship’s deck. Make
sure coamings and their support brackets are painted.
Coamings can be damaged by cargo equipment during loading or discharge. Look out for
damage and repair if found.
Hatch Cleats
It  is important for compression washers to be adjusted correctly. A locking nut for adjusting
compression is situated at the base of the cleat. The procedure to alter compression is as
follows:
 Close hatch and secure for sea;
 Place the cam of the cleat in the hatch socket as if to lock it, but leave it unlocked (the
cam should move freely and fit snugly in its housing);
 Adjust the locking nut until the compression washer touches the underside of the hatch
coaming or its steel washer;
 Turn the locking nut one full turn to achieve the desired tension;
 Do not over-tighten ;
 Protect the thread on completion.
When closing and securing a hatch for sea passage , check the tension in side cleats. Cleats
should never be adjusted in isolation , adjust all cleats diagonally opposite similar to tightening a
flange. We advise the numbering /stenciling  of cleats on opposite sides such that the crew can
tighten them symmetrically.

Quick Acting Cleat


Fig- 9 A Minor modification of the spanner and now its SAFE Practice
 
HATCH WHEELS
Hatch wheel spindles and bearings need to be greased regularly. Check the wheel spindle for
wear and the wheel housing for physical damage. Repair if the spindle is worn or if the wheels
are out of alignment. ALWAYS ENSURE THAT WHEN THE HATCH COVER IS HOUSED THE
WHEELS ARE FREE TO ROTATE. 

Greasing
Wheel spindles , cleat spindles, hinge pins, hydraulic cylinder protective sheaths, cleat wedges,
drive chain sprockets , toothed rack and cylinder spherical bearings need to be kept well
greased. Regrease every month , and always apply new grease after the ship has passed
through heavy weather.
Painting
Corrosion occurs manly where access is difficult, but it can also occur on the underside of the
hatch cover, especially along hatch beams. The regular painting will be necessary.
Hydraulic Systems and Components
The cleanliness and viscosity of hydraulic oil must be checked. Samples of the oil should be
sent for testing. The hydraulic system is provided with bleed points from which samples can be
taken.
Hydraulic oil should be changed every five years or after there have been significant repairs
such as piping or cylinder replacement.
Hydraulic oil filters should be changed every twelve months.  Ensure repairing of the hydraulic
system is done with proper components.
Hatch Cover Motors And Rack And Pinion Drives
Keep the motors and associated control /directional valves well maintained, obtain megger
readings as per PMS.
The seals for the hydraulic drive of the sprocket to be kept well clear of dust and cargo
residue. The sprocket gear teeth to be well greased at all times.
Rack And Pinion Gearing
Hydraulic Jacks And Support
Ensure the seals of the jacks/rams are clean and free of cargo residue especially on completion
of cargo operations. Check for pittings on the ram . The hose connections to be well secure and
denso taped .

Hydraulic Motor For Rolling In/Out


Ventilator Covers
Ensure packing on ventilators are in good health, treat them as you would treat the hatch cover
packings.

Heavy Weather Precaution


The following precautions should be taken if rough or heavy weather or when high swells are
expected or when it is likely that water will be shipped on deck.

Related Article:   Powers of Inspectors - Dock Worker Rules 1990

Prior to Rough Weather


 Check that hatch cleats are properly secured and adjusted . In rough weather , hulls are
subjected to high racking forces, so it is essential that hatch covers are held in place but
allowed to flex.
 As a precaution , briefly pressurize the hydraulic system to ensure that it is fully charged
and that the piping is filled with oil. This has two benefits , first it prevents the possibility of
seawater entering loose couplings or seals , and secondly , it eliminates any creep which
may have occurred.
After Rough Weather
 Inspect all cleats, guides and hydraulic components for damage . If hydraulic
components have been damaged, do not attempt to open the covers . The emergency
opening procedure should be followed until the hydraulic components have been checked
and tested .
 Check hatch cover for buckling or distortion.
 When opening the hatch covers to check for uneven movement and any unusual noises
that may indicate damage.
 Check all grease points and re-grease.

Safety When Working With Hatch Covers


The avoidance and prevention of injuries is of paramount importance. Before working on a
hatch, a risk assessment should be completed to identify all hazards . Control and safety
procedures should be examined and modified so that hazards are to minimal levels.
The Following Points Should Be Borne In Mind
 Always wear the correct PPE.
 Always test the hold atmosphere before entering:
 Never stand on a moving hatch cover:
 Never stand on a hatch coaming when the hatch is open;
 Never work on a hatch cover when the locking pin or hook is not fitted and secure;
 Never open or close a hatch cover without ensuring the coaming is clear of debris and
checking that all personnel are clear of the moving hatch and its channels of wires;
 When opening or closing a hatch never attempt to clear an obstruction with your hands ;
 When hatches are opened at sea always secure them to the coaming top by lowering the
wheels into a guide pocket.
Emergency Operation of Hatch Covers
Ensure the emergency pump to operate the hatches are tried out every three months.
Emergency Hydraulic Pump

Appendix 1- Procedures To Open And Close


 Hatch Covers  
Prior to opening or closing a hatch, the watch officer should be informed, the hydraulic system
should be topped up. Never open or close more than one set of hatch covers at a time.
Opening Procedures 
 Ensure v/l is practically upright [List not more than 2-3 degrees].
 Check that the hatch cover stowage area is clear of people, equipment and dunnage;
 Disengage all cleats and heavy bolts and stopper arm is swung out.
 Switch power on and ensure the controls are in neutral;
 Ensure that all personnel are clear of the hatch and is tracking . Position crewmembers to
observe both sides of the hatch ;
 Raise hatch covers to the roll position by jacks or by raising the lifting system. The hatch
need to clear the hatch guides); ENSURE ALL WHEELS ARE JACKED UP
COMPLETELY AND RESTING EVENLY ON THE TRACKWAY [ Else hatch will tend to
roll out in crab fashion and misalign and fall off the trackway].
 Start to open the hatch , slowly at first, then at normal operating speed until the hatch is
almost open and then reduce to slow speed until fully open. Care must be taken when
opening hatch covers especially when the speed of opening can be only partially
controlled
 When fully open , secure the hatch with the safety hook or pin before the power is
switched off
 Be aware of v/l list/rolling during operation of hatch as unduly high stresses are
generated on the side rolling hydraulic motors, and the rack and pinion drives.
Closing Procedures
 Check that the coaming top is clear of cargo or debris.
 Ensure that all the jack supports are on an even plane with the trackway.
 Make sure v/l is practically upright [ not more than 2-3 degrees list]
 Check and confirm that all the cleats and heavy bolts are in the open position and not
obstructing the track path of the hatch.
 Check that any damaged wheel tracks, compression bars and landing pads have been
repaired. V. IMP: Put grease liberally on the contact pads.
 Ensure that the hold is clear of people and that the access hatches or entrance doors are
open. switch the power on and ensure the controls are in neutral;
 Release hatch looking pins or hooks;
 Avoid injuries by ensuring that all personnel are clear of the hatch . Position
crewmembers to observe both sides of the hatch;
 Start to close the hatches slowly at first with the speed of closure being gradually
increased to the normal operating speed . As the hatch reaches the closed position the
speed should be gradually reduced.
 Lower hatch covers into guide pockets using the jacks;
 Finally, check no one is in the hold before closing hold access hatches.

Centering Guide–This Helps Centre The Hatch During Lowering to Housed Position.

Appendix 2 – Hatch Inspection Check Sheet 


MV DATE PORT
 HATCH No:
ITEMS CONDITION ACTION
Hatch Structure (Outer)    
Hatch Structure (Inner)    
Coaming Structure    
Opening/Closing Mechanism    
Hydraulic Jacks    
Hydraulic Pipes    
Steel–to–Steel- Contact Points
   
[ Landing pads }
Retaining Hooks    
Wheel Trackway    
Coaming Cleats    
Coaming Compression Bar    
End Stop Pads and Retaining
   
Hook.
     
Comments    
     
 
  MASTER                                                                         CHIEF OFFICER

Appendix 3 – Hatch PMS


CHECKS AND MAINTENANCE FOR HATCH COVERS
  HATCH COVER NO. :                                                            DATE:
SR.
ITEMS JOB DESCRIPTION DONE/ C/O
NO.
USE PNEUMATIC GREASE
1 GENERAL  GREASING
GUNS
2 RUBBER GASKETS VISUAL INSPECTION,
ENSURE SURFACE SMOOTH

,RUST FREE AND CLEAN PRIOR

3 GASKET CHANNELS NEW PACKING INSTALLED  .

ENSURE LIPS OF CHANNEL

ARE ‘ HEALTHY’
4 COMPRESSION BARS NO RUST, PAINT AND
DEFORMATION
TO BE RUST FREE AND

5 LANDING PADS ORIGINAL DIMENSIONS

MAINTAINED
HATCH WHEEL TO BE RUST FREE   AND WELL
6
TRACKWAYS COATED
HATCH COAMINGS

[ FOR STRUCTURAL CHECK FOR CRACKS AND


7
AND COATING DEFORMATION

BREAKDOWN]
CHECKS FOR PERISHED
8 HATCH CLEATS
RUBBER WASHERS
WELL GREASED AND WHEN

9 HATCH WHEELS HATCHES CLOSED WHEELS TO

TURN FREELY
CHECK FOR PHYSICAL
END STOPPER AND
10 DAMAGE AND ORIGINAL
PADS
DIMENSIONS
SEALS HOLDING AND NO CGO

11 HYDRAULIC JACKS RESIDUE, NO PITTINGS . HOSE

CONDITION
FUNCTION TEST OF ALL PUSH

BUTTONS ILLUMINATION

12 CONTROL PANNELS LIGHTS, INDICATION LIGHTS

AND CONTROL LAMPS OF

CONTROL STATION.
WORKING PRESSURE AND OIL
13 HYD. PUMP UNIT
LEVEL
CHECK FOUNDATION CRACKS,

OIL LEAKAGE, SEAL

CONDITIONS, MUST BE FREE

HYDRAULIC OF CARGO RESIDUE AND


14
SPROCKET MOTOR DIRTS, CONTROL VALVES TO

BE VISUAL INSPECTED FOR

DUST FREE AND ANY

ABNORMALITY.
CHECK FOR ANY
HATCH SPROCKET
15 DEFORMATION AND WELL
(GEAR TEETH)
GREASED ALL TIME
CHECK FOR ANY LEAK, ANY
16 VENTILATORS
STRUCTURAL DEFORMATION
ALL PROVIDED ALARMS TO BE
17 ALARMS
TRIED OUT

Common questions

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Before opening hatch covers, the vessel's list should not exceed 2-3 degrees, and the stowage area must be cleared. All cleats should be disengaged and power controls set to neutral position. During operation, ensure personnel are clear of the hatch, observe both sides, and increase or decrease operating speeds gradually. For closure, check that the coaming top is clear, ensure all cleats are open, and that wheel tracks and contact pads are well-greased and aligned. These checklists ensure safe operation without compromising the structural integrity of the hatch covers .

Prior to heavy weather, ensure hatch cleats are secured and adjusted, and briefly pressurize the hydraulic system to verify it's fully charged and filled with oil. This prevents seawater ingress into loose couplings or seals and eliminates creep. After rough weather, inspect and test hydraulic components and repair if necessary, rather than using them while potentially compromised .

Misconceptions include the belief that cleat overtightening ensures seal tightness and that hatch covers will inevitably leak in heavy weather. Both notions are incorrect: proper gasket compression is achieved mainly by hatch weight, not cleat force, and well-maintained hatch structures do not leak regardless of weather if materials are sound and cleats well-adjusted. Address these misconceptions by ensuring proper understanding of hatch cover mechanics, and training personnel on effective maintenance and inspection routines .

Common misconceptions include the belief that hatch covers are non-load bearing and that leakage is merely an inconvenience. Hatch covers can bear significant pressures during heavy weather, inducing stress in their components. Unchecked leakage can lead to severe flooding and endanger the ship, while renewal of rubber seals alone is ineffective if steel contact surfaces are worn. It's also mistaken to believe that side plates should rest on coamings due to their weight, as landing pads distribute this load. Lastly, some think hatch covers inherently leak in heavy weather or that strong cleat tightening ensures watertightness, which is false as these covers must allow flexing .

Regular maintenance of hatch covers is more effective and cost-efficient than sporadic maintenance and major repairs. Continuous maintenance prevents severe wear and tear, minimizes the risk of structural failure due to corrosion or misalignments, and ensures hatch covers maintain their watertight function. Sporadic maintenance can lead to minor issues evolving into significant structural problems, increasing the likelihood of damage during extreme conditions .

Temporary fixes for hatch covers, like sealant tapes, provide false security as they can be washed off in bad weather and only ensure temporary weather tightness instead of oil or water tightness. These measures should not substitute for proper repairs, and reliance on them can compromise safety and functionality of the ship. Proper maintenance and repair ensure the integrity of hatch covers and the vessel overall .

Maintaining hatch covers is essential to prevent water ingress into cargo holds, which can lead to cargo damage, hold flooding, and structural deterioration over time. Failure to maintain hatch covers can result in physical loss during extreme weather and potentially cause the ship to founder. Minor leaks may also damage internal structures and contribute to long-term structural decline, potentially leading to total loss .

Corrosion reduces the structural strength of hatch covers, causing increased deflection under load and potential loss of crucial steel-to-steel contacts. Poor alignment of compression surfaces leads to inadequate sealing, which can result in leaks. Advanced corrosion can make hatch covers unable to withstand moderate sea loads, risking permanent deformation and loss of seal integrity .

Finite element technology in modern hatch cover construction allows for an efficient distribution of materials, resulting in lighter but strong structures. This approach enables the use of thinner high-tensile steel plates, reducing weight while maintaining functionality. However, these lightweight structures require careful handling and diligent maintenance to prevent corrosion that can compromise their strength and safety margins .

Steel-to-steel contact surfaces are crucial in creating the necessary compression between hatch gaskets and compression bars. If the contact surfaces are worn more than 4mm, it can increase pressure on the gaskets, causing damage. Thus, maintaining these surfaces ensures proper sealing and prevents water ingress. Failure to keep these surfaces intact may lead to misalignment and reduced compression, increasing the risk of hatch cover failure .

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