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MEO CLASS 1 · ORAL QUESTION 47

Air bottle survey

Answer

Survey Scope & Preparation

  1. Isolation & Safety: Isolate air bottle from main/auxiliary starting lines, depressurize completely, lock open drain valves, unbolt access manhole door, and gas-free/ventilate space.
  2. Internal Cleaning: Thoroughly degrease and clean internal shell surfaces to remove oil sludge, moisture residue, and loose rust scale.

Inspection & Testing Requirements

Check Category

Inspection Details & Action

Visual Internal Inspection

Examine dished ends, longitudinal/circumferential weld seams, and areas around internal drain pipes for pitting corrosion, erosion, or oil contamination cracking.

Thickness Gauging (UT)

Perform Ultrasonic Thickness measurements on the dished ends and lower shell plating (where moisture accumulates) to verify shell plate thickness meets minimum Class limits.

NDT Testing

Conduct Magnetic Particle Inspection (MPI) or Dye Penetrant Testing (DPT) on high-stress weld seams, nozzle attachments, and manhole compensation rings if visual defects exist.

Safety Fittings Overhaul

Overhaul and pop-test safety relief valves ashore/onboard to confirm set pressure. Calibrate pressure gauges and verify internal drain pipe integrity.

Pressure Test (If Repaired)

Conduct a hydraulic pressure test at 1.5 x Maximum Allowable Working Pressure (MAWP) if major structural welding/repairs were carried out or required by Class.