Enhancing Ship Ballast Tank Corrosion Protection : A Comparative Analysis
Kamapunga, Anton (2024)
Kamapunga, Anton
2024
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Julkaisun pysyvä osoite on
https://urn.fi/URN:NBN:fi:amk-202403184599
https://urn.fi/URN:NBN:fi:amk-202403184599
Tiivistelmä
Modern merchant ships face a major challenge in the form of corrosion in their ballast tanks, which directly affects the ships' economic lifespan. Sacrificial zinc anodes are added to ballast tanks, which are typically made of steel and coated with epoxy. This construction technique has essentially not changed over time. The objective of this research was to compare the traditional construction method with four alternative approaches to improve corrosion resistance and, in turn, increase the longevity of the vessel. These alternatives include. Using corrosion-resistant steel for ship construction, applying a new and more durable Tanker Structure Cooperative Forum 25 coating, and using a standard Protective Coatings Performance Standard 15 coating in conjunction with aluminium sacrificial anodes that last a lifetime. The impact of each alternative on the operational efficiency of the vessel was compared in this economic study, which also provides opportunity for future research on cost effectiveness. The goal of the analysis was to give shipbuilders and operators well-informed advice on how to choose the best corrosion protection plan to maintain the profitability, sustainability, and safety of maritime operations.