164.8m Scientific Research Vessel — 124-Door Marine Access Package

Project Overview

A specialized shipyard building a 164.8m Arctic/Antarctic scientific research vessel required a complete marine door access package: 124 doors of various types including watertight, weathertight, fire-rated, and permeable doors. The vessel was designed to operate in extreme temperatures from -40°C to +35°C, requiring special material selection and cold-weather testing.

The Challenge

This was one of our most complex door projects. The 124-door package included 7 different door types, each with specific requirements per RMRS Rules Part V. The extreme low-temperature requirement (-40°C) meant all steel had to be impact-tested per Charpy V-notch at -60°C. Standard marine door steel (Grade A) was insufficient — Grade E or EH steel was needed throughout.

Our Solution

We coordinated with two factories: one specialized in heavy watertight doors (hydraulic and manual), the other in fire-rated and lightweight weathertight doors. Material procurement for Grade EH36 steel began before contract signing to secure the 90-day timeline.

Results

• 124 doors delivered in 88 days — 2 days ahead of schedule
• All doors passed RMRS cold-climate testing at -45°C
• Charpy V-notch results: 42J average at -60°C (requirement: 27J min)
• Project value: USD 420,000