ABS Approves Innovative VaRTM Ship Repair Process

Toray Industries, based in Japan, has received type approval from the American Bureau of Shipping (ABS) for their vacuum-assisted resin transfer molding (VaRTM) process for in-situ ship repairs. This innovative technique, developed in collaboration with MODEC, involves applying carbon fiber reinforced plastic (CFRP) to corroded areas with reduced thicknesses on floating production, storage, and offloading (FPSO) and floating storage and offloading (FSO) systems. ABS is a prominent classification society, responsible for certifying around half of FPSO and FSO vessels. This approval allows certified ships to utilize the VaRTM process, streamlining engineering reviews and verifications for repairs.

Traditionally, FPSO and FSO maintenance involves using steel materials for repairs, which often require welding or hot work that can disrupt oil and gas production. Toray and MODEC introduced the VaRTM repair process in 2020, which utilizes Toray’s TORAYCA carbon fiber woven fabric known for its strength and elasticity. The process involves applying the fabric to existing steel structures, covering it with a film, vacuum-sealing, and injecting epoxy resin to bond the CFRP to the steel, completing the repairs.

The in-situ VaRTM process offers several advantages over traditional steel-based techniques, including easier transportation of materials and equipment to repair locations, faster repairs with fewer personnel, and minimal impact on oil and gas production as it does not involve hot work. Toray plans to continue developing and refining their in-situ VaRTM process for various industrial applications, focusing on repair and reinforcement technologies for FPSOs and FSOs to meet market demands promptly.

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