M/V AP Dubrovnik Cargo Hold Cleaning
Seachios conducted a comprehensive chemical cleaning of seven cargo holds on the M/V AP Dubrovnik at Paranaguá, Brazil.
Date: March 28–29, 2024
Vessel: M/V AP Dubrovnik
Location: Paranaguá, Brazil
Service: Chemical cargo hold cleaning for grain loading
Operation Overview
Between March 28 and March 29, 2024, Seachios Marine Services conducted a comprehensive chemical cleaning of seven cargo holds on the M/V AP Dubrovnik at Paranaguá, Brazil. The vessel, previously carrying coal, needed thorough preparation for soybean loading to meet strict P&I club standards and avoid cross-contamination. With a tight laycan deadline of March 29, our shore gang team completed the operation in just 48 hours, ensuring the vessel passed inspection and berthed on time. This swift and precise cleaning underscores our ability to deliver exceptional results under pressure.
Technical Details of the Cleaning Process
Switching from coal to soybeans required meticulous removal of coal’s heavy, oily residues, which can cling to hold surfaces and jeopardize grain cargo quality. We followed this exact sequence to achieve a pristine result:
Sweeping: The process began with manual sweeping by our shore gang team to clear loose coal dust and debris from the holds. This hands-on step ensured precision, targeting hard-to-reach areas like corners, seams, and structural supports. By removing the bulk of the residues first, we created an optimal base for the subsequent cleaning stages.
Chemical Cleaning with Seawater: Next, we used specialized cleaning agents mixed with seawater to tackle stubborn coal residues, including oily films that sweeping alone couldn’t eliminate. Seawater’s availability and cost-effectiveness made it ideal for this phase, while the chemicals broke down contaminants. Our team manually scrubbed key areas like hatch coamings and ladder rungs for thoroughness.
Hydro Jetting with Freshwater: We then employed 500-bar (approximately 7,250 psi) high-pressure jetting machines with freshwater to blast away loosened residues and chemical traces. Freshwater was essential here to prevent salt or impurities from contaminating the holds, ensuring grain-ready conditions. Our operators covered all seven holds uniformly, safeguarding the vessel’s structure.
Final Freshwater Rinsing with Hoses: The process concluded with a high-volume freshwater rinse using hoses, flushing out any remaining chemical residues and leaving the holds clean and neutral. This final step guaranteed compliance with the stringent cleanliness standards for soybean transport.
This sequence—sweeping, chemical cleaning with seawater, hydro jetting with freshwater, and final freshwater rinsing—demanded seamless coordination to clean seven holds in 48 hours, showcasing our operational excellence and commitment to quality.
Regulatory Compliance and Environmental Responsibility
MARPOL Annex V Compliance: All dirty water, including coal residues and chemical runoff, was collected and discharged beyond 12 nautical miles from shore, adhering to MARPOL Annex V regulations. This protected coastal ecosystems and highlighted our environmental responsibility.
P&I Club Standards: The operation satisfied rigorous P&I cleanliness requirements, ensuring the M/V AP Dubrovnik was fully prepared for grain loading and minimizing cargo claim risks.
Leveraging Technology for Efficiency and Transparency
Starlink Maritime Communication: Our supervisor used Starlink Maritime to provide real-time updates to Seachios Marine Services and the disponent owners. This satellite system ensured constant communication, even during offshore discharge beyond 12 nm, keeping stakeholders informed at every stage—from sweeping to the final rinse. This transparency enhanced trust and decision-making.
Client Benefits and Expertise Showcase
This operation, our first with this client, established a strong foundation for future collaboration. By cleaning seven cargo holds in two days, we demonstrated:
Speed and Precision: Expertise in meeting tight laycan deadlines with flawless execution.
Technical Skill: Proficiency in chemical washing and high-pressure jetting to remove tough coal residues.
Attention to Detail: Manual sweeping ensured every corner was addressed, reflecting our dedication to perfection.
Regulatory Compliance: Adherence to MARPOL and P&I standards, reducing client risk.
Transparency: Real-time updates via Starlink Maritime, giving clients full visibility.
Conclusion
Seachios Marine Services blends skilled labor, advanced equipment, and cutting-edge technology to provide top-tier cargo hold cleaning services. Our successful preparation of the M/V AP Dubrovnik for grain loading in just 48 hours proves our ability to meet the shipping industry’s toughest challenges with precision and efficiency.
Need expert vessel cleaning solutions? Contact us to learn how we can support your operations with fast, compliant, and high-quality services.
