Project summary

Seven Falcon underwent a comprehensive cooler maintenance project while docked in Amsterdam. We were brought in to chemically clean all 22 box coolers, a job made more complex due to limited access, fragile coating, and uncertain lifting points. Our team mobilized with equipment for both bag and spray cleaning to ensure flexibility onsite.

As the project developed, additional corrosion issues in the sea chests were identified, requiring the removal, sandblasting, and recoating of 15 of the coolers.

How we worked

We began with a thorough assessment of access and fouling. Most coolers had limited clearance, which restricted full removal without additional lifting equipment. Fortunately, fouling was minimal — mainly seagrass and some barnacles — so a complete lift-out wasn’t necessary unless frames needed replacing.

Our process involved careful manual scraping, low-pressure HP washing (50–80 bar), and application of NGP Marine Gel. Where paint conditions were especially poor, we reduced the pressure further to avoid damaging the remaining protective coating.

After identifying severe corrosion on mounting flanges and frames, 15 coolers were removed for full treatment. These were sandblasted in a custom tent setup at the yard and recoated with Säkatonit Extra AR-F Red. Despite sub-zero temperatures, we adapted the coating schedule with added drying time to ensure a high-quality result.

Results

The engine and pump room coolers now have a refreshed coating expected to last at least 10 years. Seven coolers remain untreated and are candidates for recoating at the next docking. In addition to improved protection against galvanic corrosion, the cleaned and recoated coolers were returned precisely marked and ready for seamless reinstallation.

What we used

• NGP Marine Cleaner for dissolving marine growth without harming coatings
• Low-pressure HP washers for gentle cleaning
• Sandblasting equipment and climate-controlled tent for winter operations
• Säkatonit Extra AR-F Red coating

Reflections

This was a demanding project in terms of logistics and timing, especially over the holiday season. Still, it was a rewarding collaboration with Subsea7, MPE Cathodic, and the yard. We’re proud of the result — both in terms of technical execution and the relationships built.