Water ingress through hatch covers is one of the leading causes of dry bulk cargo damage, resulting in costly P&I claims and operational disputes. MP Inspection provides independent, Class-approved ultrasonic leak detection, traditional hose testing, and structural sealing integrity inspections for shipowners, charterers, cargo owners, and marine insurers worldwide.
Key Services & Operational Scope
- Class-Approved Ultrasonic Leak Detection (NDT)
- Precision non-destructive testing (NDT) using calibrated, Class-certified ultrasonic transmitters and receivers.
- Precise pinpointing of micro-leaks, compression gaps, and seal defects without risking water contact with sensitive cargo.
- Pre-loading and post-repair weather-tightness verification for cargo hold integrity.
- Hose & Chalk Testing Supervision
- Traditional high-pressure water hose testing compliant with maritime classification standards.
- Chalk testing on hatch cover coamings, rubber packings, and compression bars to evaluate physical alignment and contact uniformity.
- Verification of cross-joint sealing, drain channels, non-return valves, and rubber packing compression depth.
- Mechanical & Structural Sealing Audits
- Comprehensive physical inspection of hatch cover panels, cleats, wedges, hinges, and hydraulic operating mechanisms.
- Evaluation of rubber gasket wear, permanent set, cracking, and improper repairs.
- Assessment of coaming drain channels, rubber stoppers, and rust descaling condition.
- Certification & Loss Prevention Reporting
- Immediate issuance of official Hatch Cover Weather-Tightness Certificates accepted by P&I Clubs and charterers.
- Detailed photographic inspection reports with decibel (dB) sound level readings identifying exact defect locations.
- Actionable maintenance recommendations for shipyard refits or emergency sea repairs.
International Standards & Compliance
Our hatch cover testing protocols strictly comply with international classification society rules and marine insurance requirements:
- IACS Recommendation No. 14 (Hatch Cover Maintenance and Testing Guidelines)
- Class Society Standards (Lloyd’s Register, DNV, Bureau Veritas, ABS, NKK)
- P&I Club Hatch Cover Loss Prevention Guidelines
Why Choose MP Inspection?
| Feature | Client Benefit |
| Class-Certified Ultrasonic Equipment | Non-destructive, exact leak pinpointing safe for dry or moisture-sensitive bulk cargoes. |
| P&I Recognized Certification | Defensible evidence for charter parties, bill of lading issuance, and cargo claim defense. |
| Preventative Maintenance Mapping | Clear decibel mapping guiding crew precisely to areas requiring gasket replacement or adjustment. |
Request Hatch Cover Testing
Prevent cargo water damage and protect your vessel’s weather-tight integrity. Contact our marine technical team today.
MP International Inspection Chemical Industry And Trading Company Limited Independent Assurance for Global Maritime Operations