Metal Stitching Repair of Cast Iron Element on Deepwater Pathfinder Vessel

Step by Step Report Presentation

The crew of the Deepwater Pathfinder vessel identified a cast iron repair need while at sea for their V18 cylinder diesel engine. At LOCK-N-STITCH Inc. we are global leaders in cast iron repair utilizing our metal stitching technology which was ideal for this in-situ solution. New cast iron sections were fabricated and sleeves were installed and sealed using metal stitching pins. During the installation process and after completion magnetic particle inspections were conducted with dry powder or wet particle methods. The repair was also leak tested and showed no spaces, gaps, or cracks around the repaired sections.

This in-situ cast iron repair was completed in 8 weeks and avoided dry docking the drillship which could have added extra travel time, fuel, and expenses for the operator. With our comprehensive inspection processes we ensured our work as it was completed, eliminating the option for crack failures. This is just one example of the innovation of our metal stitching technology and our capacity to complete any job, anywhere.

To learn more about this project, or the processes used to repair it, see the table below or contact us directly.

Deepwater Pathfinder

V18 cylinder diesel engine after
LOCK-N-STITCH Inc. repairs

Electronic Wire & Cable

Full-Torque Products Used:

Crack Repair Tools Used:

Highlights of the Metal Stitching Repair Project

Cast Iron Crack Repair Capabilities Applied/Processes: Primary: metal stitching
Secondary: onsite machining, drilling, boring, milling

Equipment Used to Manufacture Part: Stitching pins,

Overall Part Dimensions: V18 Cylinder Diesel Engine

Material Used: Installed new cast iron sections. Sleeves

In process testing/inspection performed: Magnetic particle inspection, leak tested

Industry for Use: Shipping

Delivery/Turnaround Time: Eight weeks to repair

Product Name: Deepwater Pathfinder

Additional Facts: The DEEPWATER PATHFINDER is a designed dynamically-positioned drillship that was designed for operations in 10,000 feet of water using 18 3/4in 15,000 psi BOP and 21in OD marine drilling riser.