{"id":4241,"date":"2025-11-05T10:30:46","date_gmt":"2025-11-05T10:30:46","guid":{"rendered":"https:\/\/hanse-survey.de\/uncategorized\/ultrasonic-hatch-cover-testing\/"},"modified":"2026-01-22T12:07:25","modified_gmt":"2026-01-22T12:07:25","slug":"ultrasonic-hatch-cover-testing","status":"publish","type":"post","link":"https:\/\/hanse-survey.de\/en\/services-en\/ultrasonic-hatch-cover-testing\/","title":{"rendered":"Ultrasonic Hatch Cover Testing"},"content":{"rendered":"

The weathertight integrity of cargo hatch covers is a crucial factor in ensuring the safe and dry transport of cargo. Even the smallest leak can lead to\u00a0<\/span>serious consequences<\/span>\u00a0\u2014 from cargo damage due to water ingress to corrosion in the cargo hold.<\/span><\/span>\u00a0<\/span><\/span><\/p>\n


<\/span>A proven and modern method for\u00a0<\/span>identifying<\/span>\u00a0potential leakages is the Ultrasonic Hatch Cover Test, a non-invasive inspection technique widely used in professional marine surveying.<\/span><\/span>\u00a0<\/span><\/p>\n<\/div>

What Is Ultrasonic Hatch Cover Testing?<\/strong><\/h2>\n

During an ultrasonic tightness test, a special ultrasonic transmitter is placed inside the ship\u2019s cargo hold. With the hatch covers closed, an inspector scans the external areas of the covers using a sensitive ultrasonic receiver.<\/span>
\nIf ultrasonic signals pass through any gaps, cracks, or deformities in the sealing system, the receiver detects the sound and pinpoints the exact leak location.<\/span>\u00a0<\/span><\/p>\n

The method is completely non-invasive and poses no risk to the vessel or cargo. Any defects \u2014 such as worn rubber seals or distorted covers \u2014 can be\u00a0located\u00a0and rectified\u00a0immediately\u00a0(e.g.\u00a0by replacing gaskets or adjusting locks). Regular testing helps.\u00a0All testing procedures are\u00a0performed\u00a0in accordance with\u00a0IACS Req. UR S14 (Testing Procedures of Watertight Compartments)\u00a0and\u00a0ICLL 1966,\u00a0Regulation 16\u00a0(current edition,\u00a0including latest amendments up to January 2025)\u00a0to ensure internationally recognized and reliable results.<\/span>\u00a0<\/span><\/p>\n<\/div><\/div><\/div><\/div><\/div>

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Advantages of the Ultrasonic Test Method<\/strong><\/h2>\n

Compared to conventional testing methods such as the hose test or chalk test, ultrasonic leak detection offers multiple advantages:<\/p>\n