Case Study
Subsea Global Solutions Reseats Shifted Tailshaft Afloat and Executes a Stern Seal Repair
Problem
A client contacted Subsea Global Solutions requiring underwater support with their starboard tailshaft during the vessel’s port call in Puerto Seybaplaya, Mexico. The client indicated that the tailshaft had shifted aft approximately 200 mm when the ship’s crew was doing maintenance on the shaft coupling. It resulted in the aft water seal losing contact with the liner, causing large amounts of water ingress into the stern tube. Local divers were called in to seal the aft seal housing with rags and underwater epoxy, temporarily stabilizing the water ingress. The client ordered new OEM seals for both the forward and aft systems to allow for complete replacement. In preparation for the underwater aft seal replacement, the Subsea Global Solutions Transhab system and Subsea Global Solutions commercial diver technicians were mobilized to the job site. Once onsite, the commercial dive team confirmed the tailshaft had slid aft approximately 200 mm and needed to be pulled forward and re-coupled before the tailshaft seals could be replaced.
Solution
The Subsea Global Solutions centralized Technical Repair Department as an OEM service provider worked closely with the client to develop a unique tailshaft re-positioning procedure. This included both the underwater and internal works, followed by our standard underwater seal replacement procedure. The work was expected to be completed in 5 x 12-hour shifts with 6 commercial diver technicians and one project manager from Subsea Global Solutions Vancouver, Subsea Global Solutions Houston, Subsea Global Solutions Long Beach, Subsea Global Solutions Port Angeles, and Subsea Global Solutions Tampa.
Subsea Global Solutions' internal team began by installing hold back clamps on the forward seal housing while the dive team began removing the rope guard. The tailshaft was secured internally by a specialized clamp while the propeller, tailshaft, and seal housing was prepared for repositioning. The repositioning of the tailshaft was a critical step as it required all parties to work in unison for a successful outcome. Subsea Global Solutions' diver technicians supported the coupling of the shaft and the repair of the damaged controllable pitch mechanism internally. The shaft was successfully returned to its original position without any risk of water ingress to the vessel. With the tailshaft back in position, the aft and forward seal systems could be reinstalled. After the system was pressure checked, it was thoroughly flushed and readied for testing. The controllable pitch system was tested and calibrated. The vessel then performed sea trials without any issues.
Conclusion
This complex underwater repair was completed to the client's satisfaction in 5 shifts. Class was also very impressed, as this type of repair had not been attempted to their knowledge without dry docking. This repair was a great collaborative effort onsite highlighting the ingenuity of the Subsea Global Solutions commercial diver technicians. Having a centralized Technical Repair Department makes a difference when managing complex underwater repairs on a global scale, as it allows Subsea Global Solutions to ensure Clients, OEM, and/or Class receive the same familiar experience from Subsea Global Solutions they are used to, regardless of where the project is taking place.
