When a roll-on/roll-off ship (RO-RO) required an immediate thruster installation and rudder bushing repairs, Subsea Global Solutions stepped in to deliver a seamless in-water solution. Originally scheduled for dry dock, the repair was re-planned to accommodate the vessel’s tight operational schedule. With our extensive experience and advanced techniques, we were able to perform this critical operation entirely in-water, ensuring reduced downtime.

The project took place at the Port of Portland, Oregon on a vessel around 290 meters in length.

Details of the Work

Custom Cofferdam Design and Build

To facilitate dry repairs for the rudder bushing, our technical department designed and fabricated a custom reusable cofferdam, one of the largest known of its kind,
directly at the repair location. The cofferdam:

• Fully encapsulated the almost 45-metric-ton rudder with a unique door configuration.

• Weighed 51.49 metric tons and exerted 300 metric tons of buoyant force when dewatered.

• Was constructed to handle the specific environmental conditions of the Willamette River.

• Incorporated a removal door section for installation to compensate for shallow sea floor elevation under the vessel.  

Thruster Installation and Rudder Repairs

Our highly skilled teams worked around the clock to complete the following:

1. Thruster Installation: Installed two thrusters entirely underwater, ensuring they were fully integrated and operational.

2. Rudder Bushing Replacement: Successfully replaced the rudder bushing without removing the rudder blade, maintaining the vessel’s structural integrity.

Overcoming Challenges

Subsea Global Solutions adapted to weather and in-water conditions, including rain, wind, strong currents, and limited visibility. Despite these challenges, the project proceeded efficiently and was completed with precision and attention to detail.

At Subsea Global Solutions, safety is at the core of everything we do. For this project, by prioritizing safety at every stage, we ensured a seamless and incident-free operation, reinforcing our commitment to protecting both our team and our clients' assets.

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Conclusion

This project demonstrated Subsea Global Solutions’ ability to deliver rapid innovative, in-water solutions for complex marine repairs. By eliminating the need for dry dock, we ensured the vessel could continue its operations without further delay.

The success of this project highlights our dedication to engineering excellence, operational efficiency, and client satisfaction.

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Cofferdams & Dry, In-Water Repairs

Subsea Global Solutions specializes in custom-engineered cofferdam solutions that enable dry, in-water repairs for critical underwater components. We design cofferdams to suit a wide range of vessel and environmental requirements, providing a safe and controlled environment for repairs without the need for dry docking. From fabrication to installation, our expert teams ensure precise execution, minimizing downtime and maximizing operational efficiency. Whether for thruster repairs, rudder maintenance, or hull modifications, Subsea Global Solutions’ cofferdam services deliver innovative solutions that keep your vessels moving.

Rudder Repairs

At Subsea Global Solutions, we offer comprehensive rudder repair services to ensure your vessel’s maneuverability and performance. Our skilled technicians provide a range of solutions, from bushing replacements to structural repairs, often completed entirely in situ to avoid costly dry docking. Using advanced techniques and class-approved procedures, we restore rudder components to optimal condition while minimizing operational disruptions. Trust Subsea Global Solutions to deliver precise, efficient, and reliable rudder repair services anywhere in the world.

Thruster Repairs, Installations, & Replacements

Subsea Global Solutions is the trusted leader in thruster repairs, installations, and replacements, offering innovative solutions designed to minimize vessel downtime and maximize performance. Whether you need an in-water thruster installation, emergency repairs, or a full replacement, our experienced diver-technicians deliver class-approved services with precision and efficiency.

With advanced engineering capabilities, custom cofferdams, and a global network of offices, we handle complex thruster projects across all vessel types, ensuring seamless operations without the need for dry docking. Trust Subsea Global Solutions for reliable, cost-effective thruster solutions that keep your fleet moving.

About Subsea Global Solutions

Subsea Global Solutions is the one source for global underwater solutions. From advanced thruster installations to precise rudder repairs, we deliver class-approved services that keep vessels operational and efficient.

Request a Service

Ready to solve your vessel’s challenges? Contact Subsea Global Solutions today for expert underwater repair and maintenance solutions.

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