Remote Technologies to be Trialled on Surveys After Construction in the Shipyard

(DOHA) A pioneering joint development project (JDP) between ABS and Nakilat – Keppel Offshore & Marine Ltd. (N-KOM) will examine how techniques developed by ABS for its industry-leading program of a remote survey of vessels in service can be applied to surveys and inspections in the shipyard.

Remote inspection technologies will be applied to six Class surveys for this trial, to test how they can then be used to verify the required survey or inspection by ABS Surveyors to optimize scheduling and minimize downtime for both the shipyard, vessels, and ABS.

The JDP will examine how remote techniques can be carried out on rudder clearance inspection; stern tube wears down inspection; rudder plug opening inspection; boiler safety valve testing; fit-up inspections prior to welding and final weld visual inspection of non-critical items.

N-KOM Chief Executive Officer Damir Glavan said: “As one of the leading shipyards in the Middle East, N-KOM is committed to providing value-added services and solutions to our customers. In this spirit, we have worked closely with ABS to develop the remote inspection technique which would enhance our operational efficiency during the vessel repair and maintenance process.

This will enable us to meet Class inspections requirements and fulfill our delivery commitment to clients while upholding our commitment to provide safe, time-saving, and quality services.”

“We are taking our leadership in a remote survey of operational vessels and applying that experience and insight to the shipyard. Together with our partners, we are committed to advancing safety and efficiency to augment Surveys after construction with the application of the latest digital techniques.

The potential of these technologies is significant and while we will begin with these initial six survey items, over time, as the approach is proven, we can potentially expand the scope,” said Patrick Ryan, ABS Senior Vice President, Global Engineering and Technology.

ABS is a leader in remote surveys and can conduct numerous classification annual surveys remotely on eligible vessels and has made its remote survey and audit services available to equipment and materials manufacturing clients all over the globe. Find out more about ABS remote survey services here.

About ABS

ABS, a leading global provider of classification and technical advisory services to the marine and offshore industries, is committed to setting standards for safety and excellence in design and construction. Focused on the safe and practical application of advanced technologies and digital solutions, ABS works with industry and clients to develop accurate and cost-effective compliance, optimized performance, and operational efficiency for marine and offshore assets.

About N-KOM

Established in 2007, N-KOM is a joint venture between Qatar’s leading shipping and maritime company, Nakilat, and Keppel Offshore & Marine, a global leader in offshore rig design, construction and repair, ship repair, and conversion, and specialized shipbuilding. From its strategic location in the heart of the Arabian Gulf and within the world-class Erhama Bin Jaber Al Jalahma Shipyard complex, N-KOM offers a comprehensive range of repair, conversion, maintenance, and fabrication services for marine vessels, offshore and onshore structures.