Posted on November 19, 2020
One propulsion shaft manufacturer has developed its own glass reinforced coating that offers protection against corrosion, impact resistance, and is REACH compliant.
Approved by DNV GL, ABS and Lloyds Register, the Somers Forge GRP epoxy coating, known as Somplas, is suitable for marine shafts as well as the wrapping of various equipment such as pipes.
Somplas has been in development for two years and after stringent testing is now in use.
Weld cladding service
Following an increase in propeller shafts requiring weld cladding, Somers Forge now have the skills and expertise to weld clad tail shafts for both stainless steels and nickel-based alloys.
Somers is the first forge in the UK to hold ABS approval. This has further added to the UK’s shipbuilding capabilities.
Staff have been working towards qualifications over the last 12 months to enable Somers to obtain the ABS approval. Over the coming months further team members will be qualified to increase the capacity for the new service.
Weld cladding enhances the protection against sea water corrosion, providing life extension.
By Rebecca Jeffrey
Source: maritimejournal
