Marine Hydraulics International Performs Extensive Navy, Commercial Ship Repairs

Marine Hydraulics International, Inc. (MHI), a full service ship repair facility located in the Port of Norfolk, Va., providing repairs and conversions to both commercial and naval markets, continued its growth during 1990, reporting an increase in commercial sales of 85 percent during the year.

During 1990, MHI accomplished several capital property improvement projects allowing multiple vessels to be berthed at its facility.

Bulkhead improvements, service expansion and dredging were conducted. Water depth at the facility extends to a depth of 27 feet at mean low water and the facility is located at a 1,100-foot turning basin. MHI also added the services of a 150-ton crawler crane.

In the fall of 1990, MHI achieved a milestone, berthing two U.S. Navy vessels at one time—the frigate USS Bowen (FF-1079) and the salvage ship USS Grapple (ARS-53).

However, perhaps the company's most challenging job was the repairs and conversion performed on the tank landing ship USS Boulder (LST-1190). The work included the complete removal of the No. 1 main reduction gear pinions, bull gear, gear casing and bearings. The No. 2 reduction gear was precision in-place machined to return the thrust bearing to original manufacturer's tolerances. Two main propulsion diesel engines were replaced and two additional engines realigned to original design parameters, fialon firefighting capability was installed throughout the vessel. Extensive main switchboard modifications were made in conjunction with the installation of an upgraded shore power system. Major structural modifications and shell repairs were made in conjunction with ballast tank repairs and preservations.

In mid-January, MHI delivered its first drydock repair package on a Maritrans, G.P., tank barge. The package entailed steel and piping system repairs, vapor recovery system component installation and complete interior and exterior blasting and coating.

Vessels of up to 3,850 long tons can be drydocked in the firm's 326- by 81-foot floating dock. Larger vessels can be berthed for topside repairs. MHI intends to be positioned to offer its services for the deactivation and repair of RRF vessels following Desert Storm deployments.

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Other stories from March 1991 issue

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