Gerrards Cross, UK -- Intelligent Engineering Ltd says that the China Classification Society (CCS) has given approval for its SPS (sandwich plate system) based on steel and polyurethane, to be used on CCS-classed vessels.
SPS is a technology owned and developed by UK based Intelligent Engineering in which two metal plates are bonded either side of a solid polyurethane elastomer core. The elastomer provides continuous support to the plates, which stops local plate buckling and minimises the need for stiffeners.
Use of SPS as an overlay is "a well proven method for deck and tank-top reinstatement, with over 100 commercial projects completed around the world," said a 25 July announcement from Intelligent Engineering.
CCS has given Materials Type Approval to Intelligent Engineering, confirming that its patented SPS system is an approved construction material. Also, CCS has written design assessment standards "CCS Guidelines for the Application of Steel Sandwich Panel Construction to Ship Structure, 2007." This means that owners and designers can now specify SPS for repair and construction of CCS ships, said the UK-based group.
"We are experiencing continued growth worldwide in the demand for SPS Overlay, including in China. This recognition paves the way for straightforward approvals of CCS class ships in the future," said Michael Kennedy, ceo of Intelligent Engineering, in the company's announcement.
PIC: Earlier this year, SPS Overlay's first application in the large bulk carrier market was carried out on the Wallem-operated Capesize GH Resources at the Huarun Dadong Dockyard on Chong Ming Island in China.
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