Abstract
This paper is a brief review of some of the specific challenges brought in by the change to double hull, from single skin, oil tanker structure with respect to corrosion, and corrosion prevention measures. It suggests what should be done to improve on the present situation, and the roles of the different stake holders in this evolution. Ballast tanks are specifically addressed, but also the complex issue of cargo oil tank corrosion is touched upon. It is a mandatory requirement that ballast tanks are properly coated, however there is a lack in the definition of that term. The coating itself is not always of a high quality and deteriorates too early in the ship’s life. The corrosion in ballast tanks is much easier to predict and understand than in cargo tanks where corrosion involves still insufficiently researched and understood chemical and biological reactions and forces. It is not a mandatory requirement to coat cargo oil tanks today. Unless the industry takes proactive measures regarding corrosion, such regulatory requirements might very well follow. The cost involved with repairs and recoating of these spaces on a tanker ship are quite significant. Tanker owners, therefore, should be able to expect that the industry provide the quality at the time of the ship’s delivery, with an assurance that the performance of their product/s, that reasonably maintained will harmonize with the service life of the ship, and the requirements posted by the representatives protecting the interest of the general public.
