What are test carried out to check weather tightness of hatch cover?

Following are test carried out to check maintenance of hatch cover –

1. Ultrasonic Hatch Leak Detection.
2. Water hose test.
3. Chalk Test .

1. Ultrasonic Hatch Leak Detection

Ultrasonic hatch leak detection is a viable alternative to the hose test for testing hatch covers, access doors and access hatches for weather tightness, as it accurately locates potential points of leakage.
The ultrasonic hatch leak detection involves placing an electronic signal generator – transmitter inside the cargo hold with closed and secured hatches. A sensor is then passed around the outside of all compression joints. Readings taken by the sensor on receiver indicate points of low compression or potential points of leakage. The criterion for tightness has been set at 10% of the OHV (Open Hatch Value).

Advantages are as follow –

Reliable, Non-destructive, repeatable testing method.