ULTRASONIC WATERTIGHTNESS TEST FOR CARGO HOLDS

VM CONTROL – Technology-Driven Precision, Legally Recognized Certificates

Watertightness of cargo holds is a critical safety factor in marine transportation. Any water ingress—whether from seawater or rain—can lead to damage, corrosion, or loss of cargo, especially when transporting dry goods such as steel, cement, or machinery.

The Ultrasonic Tightness Test (UTT) is a modern, internationally recognized method used to assess the integrity of cargo hold hatch covers. It has largely replaced traditional hose testing, which is time-consuming, labor-intensive, and can contaminate the cargo space.

🎯 Purpose of Ultrasonic Tightness Testing

  • Assess the watertight integrity of hatch covers, coaming, rubber gaskets, hinges, cleats, and compression bars

  • Accurately detect leakage points or gaps that may cause water ingress

  • Provide a legal basis for owners, charterers, insurance, or P&I Clubs to evaluate the vessel’s readiness

  • Minimize risks of cargo claims, downtime, and operational disruption

🧪 Inspection Procedure by Ultrasonic Method

1. Preparation:

  • Vessel must be stationary; cargo hold clean and free of excessive noise

  • Use certified ultrasonic devices such as SDT, Cygnus Hatch Sure, or Ultraseal

2. Placement of Transmitter:

  • Ultrasonic transmitter is placed inside the closed cargo hold

  • The device emits sound waves that will escape through any open gaps or faulty seals

3. Scanning with Receiver:

  • Inspector walks along hatch coaming, joints, corners, rubber seals, and locking areas

  • Receiver detects ultrasonic signals in decibels (dB), identifying precise leak points

4. Evaluation and Reporting:

  • All leak points are marked, photographed, and noted

  • Results are classified: Pass / Fail based on international standards

  • A formal Ultrasonic Tightness Inspection Certificate is issued for legal use

✅ Why Choose VM CONTROL?

  • Certified inspectors with in-depth ultrasonic testing expertise and real-world experience

  • Modern testing equipment with regular calibration for reliable accuracy

  • Clean, non-destructive method – no need for water spraying or dismantling components

  • Issued certificates are bilingual (English–Vietnamese) and accepted by shipowners, charterers, and P&I Clubs

📞 Contact – Ultrasonic Cargo Hold Watertightness Inspection

VIET MARINE CONTROL JOINT STOCK COMPANY – VM CONTROL
📍 Office: 1831/10/9 Huynh Tan Phat Street, Quarter 2, Nha Be Commune, Ho Chi Minh City, Vietnam
📞 On-site Hotline: +84 981600440 / +84 918114742
📧 Email: phongcskhgiamdinhhanghaiviet@gmail.com
🌐 Website: www.vietmarinecontrol.com.vn

VM CONTROL – Accuracy down to every seam – Safety throughout the voyage.
Every leak detected today is one less risk for your cargo tomorrow.