NYK is aiming to reduce steel corrosion on its vessels through a new joint venture.
It has signed a memorandum of understanding with Toyokoh to examine business development using its CoolLaser technology.
"NYK aims to reduce the maintenance workload of crew on deck, in addition to dry-dock costs for repairs, and will discuss development of a business to provide a more efficient and environment-friendly maintenance method using Toyokoh’s epoch-making laser technology," it said.
It added that steel used on a ship’s deck is always susceptible to rust due to the harsh outdoor ocean environment that can lead to corrosion arising from severe salinity, temperatures, humidity, and ultraviolet rays, all exacerbated by scratches resulting from wear from cargo loading etc.
During voyages, crew members usually remove rust using power tools and then repaint, but a tremendous amount of repetitive work is required, and the repair does not remain in good condition for long, it said.
In addition, rust on the shell plates of the ship is usually removed at dry dock through sandblasting, a procedure that discharges much dust and waste when an abrasive material such as sand is shot at a high speed onto the shell plates to remove surface contaminants.
Since 2008, Toyokoh has been making use of its expertise in paint on structures to develop a laser that would remove rust, NYK said.
"CoolLaser not only improves work efficiency but also reduces costs during dry-dock repairs, and lessens burdens placed on the environment," it added.
To develop the system for vessels, the two companies will develop a device, system, and measures that study the impact of lasers on steel material and coating adhesion, in addition to safety measures and improvements.
A trial is scheduled to be done on an actual ship while it is in dry dock.
