The high sulplhur content of scrubber wash water can cause problems, particularly in open-loop systems. Although this acidic water is quickly neutralised by the much larger volume of seawater, it can still cause corrosion at the immediate point of outflow and for a short distance along the hull. Scrubber systems are made to withstand these high pH levels, but the connection to the mild-steel hull may be compromised, particularly if it’s uncoated or damaged.

Scrubbers are a cost-effective way to clean fuel emissions and comply with the International Maritime Organisation’s 2020 sulphur cap. As well as reducing pollution from ships these exhaust gas cleaning systems mean you can avoid paying for expensive alternative fuels like diesel.

But while scrubber technology is constantly improving, these systems often produce wash water with a high sulphur content. As it’s discharged from the vessel, this acidic water can corrode mild-steel pipework and areas of the hull, which can lead to leaks.

If corrosion occurs in the overboard piping system, the wash water can leak into the ship in various places. Where the hull plating is damaged, it can mean ingress into cargo spaces, the engine room, ballast tanks and voids. In the short term, you may need to stop using your scrubber. If that happens, you might need to switch to a cleaner, more expensive fuel to comply with the IMO 2020 sulphur cap - and your costs could rise significantly. The sooner you repair the damage, the sooner you can get your scrubber up and running again. In severe cases, vessels have had to be put in drydock for repairs - an expensive and time-consuming process.

Wärtsilä Underwater Services offers several Scrubber Overboard Repairs for damage caused by scrubber discharge. We’ve developed various methods of replacing and modifying affected elements of the overboard system.

Our underwater repairs are quick too. Our divers can complete underwater projects in as little as two days – over twice as fast as repairs done in drydock. These services are cost-effective too. Many can be carried out in-situ, so they can be done anywhere. This means repairs can be up to three times cheaper the cost of drydocking.

Our network of factory-trained, industry-certified diver technicians spans the globe, so we’re never too far away. And our high standard of service and equipment means you can count on us to get the job done right. These repair methods are also useful for dealing with damage caused by wash water from exhaust gas recirculation systems and substances in ballast water treatment systems.

One of the key benefits is that many of these repairs can be carried out in situ, making them cost-effective, because you avoid the need for expensive drydocking. Repairs can be significantly cheaper than drydocking, especially in consideration of other drydocking-related costs. These repairs are significantly faster than drydocking too. Our divers can complete underwater projects in as little as two days – over twice as fast as repairs done in drydock. We have a global network of factory-trained, industry-certified diver technicians, so we can get to you faster, no matter where you are.