Page 15: of Maritime Reporter Magazine (November 1980)

"Welding is everything. Our tough standards

What's the measure of a strong barge? Listen to the people that know a barge is only as strong as its welds. HBC Barge

Welder, Bill Pochek: "Excellent welding is the surest sign of quality and strength in a barge. We continually work for the strongest welds possible in every area of construction. "All of our welding that requires it is

ABS and Coast Guard approved. Every welder, including myself, is certified. "Many welds need to be continu- ous, full-penetration. To make certain we get the required penetration and to insure solid integrity, we inspect the welds with an Ultrasonic Tester. "Flat position welding makes one of the strongest welds. So we rotate the give every barge lasting structural soundness!' barge sections during construction to permit as much downhand welding as possible. "We get our fit-ups and welds as tight as possible for strength, 1/8 inch is our ideal. You won't find any gaps filled with welding solder in our barges. "Our tough welding standards help our barges last through many years of con- tinued service. It's part of our philosophy of giving the customers what they want, in design and quality construction, delivered on-time, at a competitive price."

Everyone at HBC

Barge shares Bill Pochek's commitment to quality. HBC

Barge builds barges in any size and configuration you need, for chemicals and other liquids, coal, grain and other commodities.

Go beyond options and get what you want.

For more information on getting your next barge fleet built to your specs, built to deliver years of service, contact:

HBC Barge

HBC Barge, Inc.

Formerly named Hillman Barge & Construction Company.

Brownsville, Pennsylvania 15417 Phone: (412) 785-6100

Write 200 on Reader Service Card

November 1, 1980 5