Last month, Hydrex carried out an underwater bow thruster operation on a ferry in Stockholm, in the middle of winter. Snowfall and cold temperatures were part of the picture, but that’s nothing new for the company. They’re used to working in all kinds of conditions, and with the right preparation, weather never has to be an obstacle.
This operation was planned well in advance, and was scheduled to take place during a planned break in the ferry’s timetable. That meant Hydrex could do the work without disrupting the vessel’s service unnecessarily and without the need for a drydock visit.
Planning ahead for a smooth operation
From the start, Hydrex worked closely with the crew to make sure everything aligned with their operational planning. To prepare for the job, they mobilized a truck fully loaded with equipment from their office in Antwerp, while the rest of the team flew in separately. This approach allowed them to have all specialized tools on site while remaining flexible in how they deployed personnel.
While one team prepared the underwater part of the job, the remainder handled internal preparations so that once they started, everything could move forward efficiently. Working this way allows Hydrex to adapt to the customer’s needs instead of forcing the vessel into a repair window that doesn’t fit its schedule.
A familiar operation, executed with confidence
Hydrex has been carrying out underwater bow thruster removals and installations on a regular basis for well over 30 years, so they know exactly what’s needed and how to execute them efficiently and safely.
In Stockholm, after removing the tunnel grids, the team disconnected and lifted out the existing bow thruster underwater. Instead of reinstalling the same unit, a new thruster was provided, while the removed unit was sent ashore for overhaul and refurbishment by the owner’s chosen service providers.
Because the thruster was fully assembled and prepared, it could be installed in its entirety without the need to create a dry environment in the tunnel as is required when the blades are fitted separately. Once the new thruster was positioned in the tunnel, all connections were secured, the grids were reinstalled, and final checks confirmed everything was ready for operation.
From the vessel’s perspective, the process was well coordinated and controlled. As the chief officer later told Hydrex: “I can only say that I’m impressed by the work and the time schedule. The only delay we had was from our side when we had some issues removing the studs. For me this was a new experience.”
Delivering results in winter conditions
Snowy weather didn’t slow Hydrex down. Cold water, limited daylight, and logistical challenges are all part of the job, and the company is used to adapting as situations change. Extensive experience helps them keep operations predictable.
