Aux 2 Unit 17 Q1

The annual airtight integrity test and examination of an inflatable or rigid inflatable craft (RIC) is a critical procedure to ensure the craft’s safety and readiness for use in emergency situations or normal operations. These tests and inspections verify the condition of the buoyancy chambers, fittings, and overall structure of the craft to ensure it remains seaworthy.

Purpose of the Test:

The main objective of the airtight integrity test is to check that the buoyancy chambers of the inflatable craft or rigid inflatable craft maintain proper inflation without leaks. This ensures that the craft will perform as intended in emergencies, especially when used as a life-saving appliance. The annual test helps detect issues such as leaks, material degradation, or other structural faults that may compromise the craft’s performance.

Key Steps in the Annual Airtight Integrity Test and Examination:

1. Visual Inspection

• Purpose: To examine the external condition of the inflatable craft for signs of wear, damage, or deterioration that could affect its performance.
• Process:
  • Inspect the hull, buoyancy tubes, and other structural components for abrasions, cuts, or punctures.
  • Check for signs of UV degradation, which may cause the material to become brittle or weakened.
  • Inspect the seams, valves, and other attachment points for any signs of delamination, separation, or failure.
  • Look for any signs of water ingress in rigid inflatable craft (RIC) hulls.
  • Ensure that the inflatable tubes are securely attached to the hull.

2. Inflation Test

• Purpose: To check for air retention and ensure the inflatable sections are airtight.
• Process:
  • Fully inflate the buoyancy chambers to the manufacturer’s specified pressure using a hand pump or compressor.
  • The chambers must be inflated for a specified period (usually 12-24 hours, depending on manufacturer guidelines) to observe any loss of pressure.
  • During the inflation period, check all valves for proper function and ensure they close securely.
  • Monitor the craft for any noticeable pressure loss, which would indicate leaks or faulty valves.
  • If any significant drop in pressure is detected, further investigation is required to locate and repair leaks.

3. Leak Detection

• Purpose: To identify any areas where air may be escaping from the inflatable chambers.
• Process:
  • Soap and Water Solution: Apply a soap and water solution to the surface of the inflated chambers, focusing on seams, patches, and valves. Bubbles will form where air is escaping, indicating the location of leaks.
  • Ultrasonic Leak Detection: For more precise detection, ultrasonic devices may be used to detect air escaping from small leaks or hard-to-spot areas.

4. Valve Inspection and Function Test

• Purpose: To verify the proper operation of all inflation and deflation valves.
• Process:
  • Check the condition of valve seats, covers, and gaskets for signs of wear or damage.
  • Ensure that the valves are easy to open and close and that they seal completely when closed.
  • Inspect the operation of any pressure relief valves, ensuring they open at the correct pressure and reseal properly.

5. Testing for Seam Integrity

• Purpose: To check the seams where the fabric is bonded or welded to ensure they are intact and free from separation or peeling.
• Process:
  • Closely inspect the seams for any signs of adhesive failure, delamination, or cracking.
  • Use manual pressure to lightly pull at the seams to ensure there is no separation or loss of integrity.
  • Any defects in the seams must be repaired according to manufacturer specifications.

6. Check Fittings and Accessories

• Purpose: To ensure that all fittings (such as grab lines, D-rings, paddles, handles, towing points, etc.) are secure and in good condition.
• Process:
  • Inspect each fitting for signs of corrosion, wear, or damage.
  • Ensure that any safety equipment, such as lifelines, inflation pumps, and paddles, is present, properly stored, and functional.
  • Test the security and attachment points of rigid parts, such as the RIC hull or hard floors.

7. Examination of the Rigid Hull (For Rigid Inflatable Craft)

• Purpose: For rigid inflatable craft, the hull must be inspected for structural integrity, cracks, and water ingress.
• Process:
  • Inspect the rigid hull for any signs of damage, stress fractures, or wear.
  • Check for water ingress in sealed compartments or damage to fiberglass or other hull materials.
  • Ensure that the rigid sections are securely bonded to the inflatable tubes.

8. Pressure Relief Valve Testing

• Purpose: To ensure that pressure relief valves function properly to prevent over-inflation, which could damage the craft.
• Process:
  • Increase the pressure inside the buoyancy chambers to the point where the pressure relief valves should activate.
  • Ensure the valves release air at the specified pressure and reseal correctly afterward.

9. Record and Repair

• Purpose: To document the findings and take corrective action if needed.
• Process:
  • Record any findings of damage, wear, or air leaks in an inspection report.
  • Perform necessary repairs to the inflatable tubes, seams, or valves using approved repair materials and techniques.
  • Replace any worn or damaged components as per manufacturer recommendations.
  • Re-inflate the craft after repairs to verify airtightness and functionality.

Final Steps:

• Certification and Documentation: Once the test and examination are completed, a formal record is made, often required for compliance with maritime safety regulations. The certification ensures that the inflatable craft meets safety and operational standards.
• Repacking (for life rafts or emergency crafts): After the inspection and testing, the inflatable craft must be carefully repacked and stowed in its designated storage area, ready for use.

Conclusion:

The annual airtight integrity test and examination ensure that inflatable and rigid inflatable craft remain safe and reliable. The process involves a thorough visual inspection, inflation and leak detection tests, checking valve operation, testing seam integrity, and examining any rigid components. Any issues found during the examination must be repaired, and the craft must be retested to ensure that it is ready for use in emergencies or normal operations.