Underwater Weld Repairs-Requirements and Execution

Underwater welding, especially underwater wet welding, is gaining more and more acceptance. This is due not least to specially developed welding consumables, improved techniques and better training of the welder divers.

Corrosion and the associated need for maintenance, as well as accidents on underwater structures that cannot be brought easily to the surface, such as: Ships, structures in the offshore oil and gas industry and other areas of application, require underwater welding work.

This article is a brief introduction to the differences between underwater dry and underwater wet welding, including their process limitations, with emphasis on underwater wet welding. The reader receives an overview of existing regulations, with a focus on the AWS D3.6M: "Underwater Welding Code." The quality of underwater wet-welded connections is illustrated using examples of afloat repairs carried out on ships and on an offshore oil and gas floating asset.