On January 9, the fresh R/V TKK left the dock and sailed for the Minjiang River to undergo a series of tests after a 26-day special inspection completed in dry dock at the Mawei Shipyard. After engineers and crew aboard put the ship through its paces, R/V TKK returned to its home port of Xiamen, and is ready for a new journey in 2022.
R/V TKK was landlocked for a special survey. Photo: Youyan Gao
In accordance with regulations of International Maritime Organization, ships are subject to a special inspection every five years. After the completion of the inspection, China Classification Society (CCS) will certify that the ship had been inspected complying with the relevant regulations and standards.
The whole mission involved a thorough inspection and repairs of the ship’s hull structures, maintenance of engines, electrical installations, navigation/communications facilities, firefighting, and life-saving appliances. Moreover, lighting conditions onboard the ship had been improved during the dry dock, providing more adequate artificial lights in living spaces and scientific working areas. In addition to the routine inspection, STS department of Marine Operations (XMU) made full use of this opportunity to inspect, maintain, and upgrade shipboard equipment and facilities crucial to the vessel’s operations and scientific capabilities.
Subjected to screw shaft and tube shaft survey. Photo: Kun Chen
The lighting conditions in the mess onboard were improved. Photo: Kun Chen
STS technicians were divided into four groups to conduct maintenance and improvements in geophysical equipment, hydrometeorological instruments, launch and recovery systems, as well as network facilities onboard the ship. Despite various obstacles and operational complexities, STS managed to complete the planned 42 items with joint efforts of engineers and professionals from the shipyard and equipment manufacturers.
The inspection was accomplished. Photo: Kun Chen
With the completion of the required dry-dock, R/V TKK will continue its work in safeguarding sea-going science missions in its excellent state, with a full schedule set for the new year. Let’s ride the wind, break the waves, and brave the journey of the following five years onboard R/V TKK.
