FEDERAL UNIVERSITY

OF PETROLEUM
RESOURCES, EFFURUN

DEPARTMENT OF MARINE ENGINEERING

GROUP 23

WEATHER AND WATER TIGHT DOORS

ONBOARD SHIPS

S/N NAME MATRIC No.

1 OLUWAFEMI MIRACLE EMMANUEL 1120525HF
2 OMARIOGHA AJIRIOGHENE MARVELLOUS COET/9474/2022
3 OMOKO OGHENETEJIRI MICHAEL COET/8944/2021
4 ONORIODE EFEMINI COET/10273/2022
5 ORIADE SODIQ OLUWATIMILEHIN COET/8409/2021

1
TABLE OF CONTENTS
WATERTIGHT DOORS 3
HOW WATERTIGHT DOORS WORK 4–8
OPERATION OF WATERTIGHT DOORS 9 – 11
TRAINING AND MAINTENANCE OF
WATERTIGHT DOORS 14
BENEFITS OF WATERTIGHT DOORS 15 – 17
SAFETY FEATURES OF WATERTIGHT DOORS 17
MAINTENANCE GUIDE FOR WATERTIGHT DOORS 18 – 19
WEATHER-TIGHT DOORS 20
FEATURES OF WEATHER-TIGHT DOORS 21
TYPES OF WEATHER-TIGHT DOORS 22 – 28
OPERATION OF WEATHER-TIGHT DOORS 28 – 32
TRAINING AND MAINTENANCE REQUIREMENTS OF
WEATHER-TIGHT DOORS 32 – 33
SAFETY FEATURES OF WEATHER-TIGHT DOORS 33 – 34
SUMMARY AND FUNDAMENTAL DIFFERENCES BETWEEN
WEATHER-TIGHT AND WATERTIGHT DOORS 35

2
 WATERTIGHT DOORS

Watertight doors are designed to prevent water from entering a ship's hull in
the event of flooding or damage. They are typically installed in subdivision
bulkheads and are essential for maintaining the integrity of the ship's watertight
compartments. They are a critical component of a ship's safety and security
systems, particularly in areas where flooding could pose a risk to the vessel, its
crew, and passengers.

Figure 1: Watertight doors

3
 HOW WATERTIGHT DOORS WORK
Watertight doors work by creating a tight seal between the door leaf (the
movable part of the door) and the door frame (the structural component that
surrounds the door). This seal is achieved through a combination of design features
and components, including:

1. Gaskets:

Watertight doors use specialized gaskets that are designed to compress

and seal the gap between the door leaf and the door frame. These gaskets are
typically made of rubber or other elastomeric materials.

Figure 2: Gasket / Watertight rubber seal

4
2. Door Frame:

The door frame is designed to be strong and rigid, with a smooth surface
that allows the gasket to seal properly.

Figure 3: Watertight Door Frame

5
3. Door Leaf:

The door leaf is designed to be strong and watertight, with a smooth

surface that allows the gasket to seal properly.

Figure 4:Watertight Door Leaf

6
4. Hinges:

Watertight doors use specialized hinges that are designed to withstand the
pressure of water and maintain the seal between the door leaf and the door
frame.

Figure 5:Watertight Hinges

7
5. Locking Mechanism:

The locking mechanism is designed to secure the door in place and

maintain the seal between the door leaf and the door frame.

Figure 6: Watertight Locking Mechanism

8
 TYPES OF WATERTIGHT DOORS
There are several types of watertight doors, including:

 Sliding Watertight Doors:

These doors slide horizontally to open and close.

Figure 7: Sliding Watertight Doors

9
 Swinging Watertight Doors:

These doors swing on hinges to open and close.

Figure 8: Swinging Watertight Doors

10
 Hinged Watertight Doors:

These doors are hinged at the top or bottom and open upwards or
downwards.

Figure 9: Hinged Watertight Doors

11
 OPERATION OF WATERTIGHT DOORS

Watertight doors can be operated manually or using power.

MANUAL OPERATION

1. Handle or Wheel:
Manual watertight doors are operated using a handle or wheel.

2. Turning the Handle:

To open the door, the handle is turned clockwise or counterclockwise,
depending on the door's design.

3. Door Leaf Movement:

As the handle is turned, the door leaf moves away from the door frame,
creating an opening.

4. Gasket Compression:
When the door is closed, the gasket is compressed, creating a watertight
seal.

POWER OPERATION

1. Electric/Hydraulic Power:
Power-operated watertight doors use electric or hydraulic power to open and
close.

2. Control Panel:
The door is operated using a control panel, which typically includes buttons
or switches to open and close the door.
12
3. Motor Activation:
When the control panel is activated, the motor is engaged, and the door leaf
moves away from or towards the door frame.

4. Gasket Compression:
When the door is closed, the gasket is compressed, creating a watertight seal

OPERATING PROCEDURES OF WATERTIGHT DOORS

1. Pre-Operation Checks:
Before operating the door, crew members should check the door's condition,
ensure the area is clear, and verify that the door is properly secured.

2. Opening and Closing:

The door should be opened and closed slowly and carefully to avoid
damaging the door or its components.

3. Securing the Door:

After closing the door, crew members should ensure that it is properly
secured using the locking mechanism.

13
 TRAINING AND MAINTENANCE OF WATERTIGHT DOORS

1. Crew Training:
Crew members should receive training on the operation, maintenance, and
repair of watertight doors.

2. Regular Maintenance:
Watertight doors should be regularly inspected and maintained to ensure
they remain in good working condition.

3. Repair and Replacement:

Any damaged or worn-out components should be repaired or replaced
promptly to maintain the door's watertight integrity.

14
 BENEFITS OF WATERTIGHT DOORS

SAFETY BENEFITS

1. Prevention of Flooding:
Watertight doors prevent water from entering a ship or building, reducing
the risk of flooding and damage.

2. Protection of Crew and Passengers:

By preventing water from entering, watertight doors help protect the crew
and passengers from the risks associated with flooding.

3. Reduced Risk of Accidents:

Watertight doors reduce the risk of accidents caused by slippery floors and
reduced visibility.

OPERATIONAL BENEFITS

1. Reduced Maintenance:
Watertight doors reduce the need for costly maintenance and repairs by
preventing water from entering the ship or building.

2. Improved Efficiency:
By preventing water from entering, watertight doors help improve the
efficiency of ship operations and reduce downtime.

3. Enhanced Comfort:
Watertight doors create a more comfortable environment for crew members
and passengers by keeping the elements out.

15
 ECONOMIC BENEFITS

1. Cost Savings:
Watertight doors can help reduce costs associated with repairs, maintenance,
and downtime.

2. Increased Productivity:
By improving the efficiency of ship operations, watertight doors can help
increase productivity and reduce costs.

3. Reduced Insurance Claims:

Watertight doors can help reduce insurance claims related to flooding and
water damage.

ENVIRONMENTAL BENEFITS

1. Prevention of Pollution:
Watertight doors can help prevent pollution by preventing oil and other
hazardous substances from entering the water.

2. Reduced Risk of Environmental Damage:

By preventing water from entering the ship or building, watertight doors can
help reduce the risk of environmental damage.

REGULATORY COMPLIANCE

1. Compliance with Safety Regulations:

Watertight doors help ships and buildings comply with safety regulations
and standards.

16
2. Compliance with Environmental Regulations:
Watertight doors can help ships and buildings comply with environmental
regulations and standards.

SAFETY FEATURES OF WATERTIGHT DOORS

Watertight doors have several safety features, including:

1. Alarm System:
An alarm system is used to alert crew members if a watertight door is not
properly closed or secured.

2. Indicator Lights:
Indicator lights are used to show the status of the door (open, closed, or
secured).

3. Emergency Release:
An emergency release mechanism is used to quickly open the door in case of
an emergency.

Overall, watertight doors are a critical component of a ship's safety and

security systems, and their proper design, installation, operation, and maintenance
are essential to ensuring the safety of the crew, passengers, and cargo.

17
 MAINTENANCE GUIDE FOR WATERTIGHT DOORS:

 Daily Checks

o Visual Inspection:
Inspect the door, frame, and seals for signs of damage, wear, or
corrosion.

o Door Operation:
Check that the door opens and closes smoothly and properly.

o Seal Condition:
Inspect the seals for signs of wear, damage, or compression.

 Weekly Checks
o Lubrication:
Lubricate the hinges, locks, and other moving parts.

o Cleanliness:
Clean the door, frame, and seals to prevent corrosion and damage.

o Tightness:
Check the door's tightness by applying pressure or using a testing
device.

 Monthly Checks
o Seal Replacement:
Inspect and replace the seals as needed.

o Hinge and Lock Maintenance:

Inspect and maintain the hinges and locks.

o Frame and Door Alignment:

18
 Check the frame and door alignment.

 Quarterly Checks
o Hydrostatic Testing:
Perform hydrostatic testing to ensure the door's watertight integrity.

o Ultrasonic Testing:
Perform ultrasonic testing to detect any defects or damage.

 Annual Checks
o Major Overhaul:
Perform a major overhaul of the door, including replacement of worn-
out parts.

o Certification:
Obtain certification from a qualified surveyor or inspector.

 Additional Tips
o Keep Records:
Keep records of maintenance, repairs, and inspections.

o Train Personnel:
Train personnel on the proper operation, maintenance, and repair of
the watertight door.

o Use Genuine Parts:

Use genuine parts for repairs and replacements.

By following this maintenance schedule, you can ensure the watertight door
remains in good working condition and maintains its watertight integrity.

19
 WEATHER-TIGHT DOORS
Weather-tight doors are designed to prevent water and weather from
entering a ship's superstructure or other areas. They are typically installed in
exterior bulkheads and are essential for maintaining a dry and comfortable
environment onboard.
Weather-tight doors are designed to prevent water and weather from
entering a ship, building, or other structure, while still allowing for easy access.
These doors are typically used in applications where a high level of weather
protection is required, such as: Marine vessels, Offshore platforms, Industrial
buildings, Commercial buildings

Figure 10: Weather-tight door

20
 FEATURES OF WEATHER-TIGHT DOORS

1. Water-resistant seals:
Weather-tight doors have water-resistant seals to prevent water from
entering.

2. Secure locking mechanisms:

Weather-tight doors have secure locking mechanisms to ensure they remain
closed in harsh weather conditions.

3. Reinforced frames:
Weather-tight doors have reinforced frames to provide additional strength
and stability.

4. Drainage systems:
Some weather-tight doors are equipped with drainage systems to prevent
water accumulation.

21
 TYPES OF WEATHER-TIGHT DOORS

1. Sliding Weather-Tight Doors

a. These doors slide horizontally to open and close.
b. Often used in marine vessels, offshore platforms, and industrial
buildings.

Figure 11: Sliding Weather-tight door

22
2. Swinging Weather-Tight Doors
a. These doors swing on hinges to open and close.
b. Commonly used in commercial and industrial buildings, as well as in
marine vessels.

Figure 12: Swinging Weather-tight door

23
3. Hinged Weather-Tight Doors
a. These doors are hinged at the top or bottom and open upwards or
downwards.
b. Often used in industrial buildings, warehouses, and marine vessels.

Figure 13: Hinged Weather-tight door

24
4. Automatic Weather-Tight Doors
a. These doors are equipped with automatic opening and closing
mechanisms.
b. Commonly used in commercial and industrial buildings, as well as in
marine vessels.

Figure 14: Automatic Weather-tight door

25
5. Manual Weather-Tight Doors
a. These doors are operated manually using a handle or wheel.
b. Often used in industrial buildings, warehouses, and marine vessels.

Figure 15: Manual Weather-tight door

26
6. Hydraulic Weather-Tight Doors
a. These doors are operated using hydraulic power.
b. Commonly used in marine vessels, offshore platforms, and industrial
buildings.

7. Steel Weather-Tight Doors

a. These doors are made from steel and provide a high level of security and
durability.
b. Often used in industrial buildings, warehouses, and marine vessels.

Figure 16: Steel Weather-tight door

27
8. Aluminum Weather-Tight Doors
a. These doors are made from aluminum and provide a lightweight and
corrosion-resistant solution.
b. Commonly used in commercial and industrial buildings, as well as in
marine vessels.

9. Fiberglass Weather-Tight Doors

a. These doors are made from fiberglass and provide a durable and low-
maintenance solution.
b. Often used in marine vessels, offshore platforms, and industrial
buildings.

[Link] Weather-Tight Doors

a. These doors are designed and manufactured to meet specific
requirements and applications.
b. Often used in unique or specialized applications, such as in marine
vessels or offshore platforms.

OPERATION OF WEATHER-TIGHT DOORS

Manual Operation

 Handle or Wheel:
Manual weather-tight doors are operated using a handle or wheel.

 Turning the Handle:

To open the door, the handle is turned clockwise or counterclockwise,
depending on the door's design.

 Door Leaf Movement:

As the handle is turned, the door leaf moves away from the door frame,
creating an opening.

 Gasket Compression:
28
 When the door is closed, the gasket is compressed, creating a tight seal
between the door leaf and the door frame.

Automatic Operation
 Sensor Activation:
Automatic weather-tight doors are equipped with sensors that detect the
presence of a person or object.

 Motor Activation:
When the sensor is activated, the motor is engaged, and the door opens or
closes.

 Door Leaf Movement:

The door leaf moves away from or towards the door frame, creating an
opening or closing the door.

 Gasket Compression:
When the door is closed, the gasket is compressed, creating a tight seal
between the door leaf and the door frame.

Hydraulic Operation

 Hydraulic Cylinder:
Hydraulic weather-tight doors are operated using a hydraulic cylinder.

 Pump Activation:
When the pump is activated, the hydraulic cylinder extends or retracts,
opening or closing the door.

 Door Leaf Movement:

The door leaf moves away from or towards the door frame, creating an
opening or closing the door.

 Gasket Compression:

29
 When the door is closed, the gasket is compressed, creating a tight seal
between the door leaf and the door frame.

OPERATING PROCEDURES OF WEATHER-TIGHT DOORS

Pre-Operation Checks

 Inspect the door:

Check the door for any damage or obstruction.

 Check the seals:

Inspect the seals for any signs of wear or damage.

 Ensure proper alignment:

Verify that the door is properly aligned with the door frame.

Opening the Door

 Unlock the door:

Unlock the door using the locking mechanism.

 Turn the handle:

Turn the handle clockwise or counterclockwise to open the door.

 Push or pull the door:

Gently push or pull the door to open it.

Closing the Door

 Push or pull the door:

Gently push or pull the door to close it.

 Turn the handle:

Turn the handle clockwise or counterclockwise to secure the door.

30
 Lock the door:
Lock the door using the locking mechanism.

Safety Procedures

 Ensure proper closure:

Verify that the door is properly closed and secured.

 Check for obstructions:

Check the door and surrounding area for any obstructions.

 Use caution in harsh weather:

Use caution when operating the door in harsh weather conditions.

Emergency Procedures

 Emergency release:
Use the emergency release mechanism to quickly open the door in case of an
emergency.

 Alarm system:
Activate the alarm system to alert personnel of an emergency.

Maintenance Procedures

 Regular inspection:
Regularly inspect the door and seals for any signs of wear or damage.

 Gasket replacement:
Replace the gaskets as needed to maintain a tight seal.

 Hinge and lock maintenance:

Regularly maintain the hinges and locks to ensure proper operation.

31
 TRAINING AND MAINTENANCE REQUIREMENTS OF
WEATHER-TIGHT DOORS
Training Requirements

1. Initial Training:
Provide initial training to personnel on the proper operation, maintenance,
and repair of weather-tight doors.

2. Refresher Training:
Provide refresher training to personnel at regular intervals to ensure they
remain familiar with the operation and maintenance of the doors.

3. On-the-Job Training:
Provide on-the-job training to personnel to ensure they are familiar with the
specific weather-tight doors installed on the vessel or facility.

4. Manufacturer's Instructions:
Ensure personnel are familiar with the manufacturer's instructions for the
operation, maintenance, and repair of the weather-tight doors.

Maintenance Requirements
1. Regular Inspections:
Regularly inspect weather-tight doors to ensure they are in good working
condition.

2. Gasket Replacement:
Replace gaskets as needed to maintain a tight seal.

3. Hinge and Lock Maintenance:

Regularly maintain hinges and locks to ensure proper operation.

32
4. Door Alignment:
Ensure doors are properly aligned with the door frame.

5. Seal Inspection:
Regularly inspect seals for signs of wear or damage.

6. Lubrication:
Regularly lubricate hinges and locks to ensure smooth operation.

BENEFITS OF WEATHER-TIGHT DOORS

 Protection from the Elements:

Weather-tight doors provide a secure barrier against wind, rain, and snow.

 Reduced Maintenance:
By preventing water from entering, weather-tight doors reduce the need for
costly maintenance and repairs.

 Improved Safety:
Weather-tight doors help prevent accidents caused by slippery floors and
reduced visibility.

 Enhanced Comfort:
Weather-tight doors create a more comfortable environment by keeping the
elements out.

 Energy Efficiency:
Weather-tight doors help reduce heat loss and gain, improving energy
efficiency.

33
 SAFETY FEATURES OF WEATHER-TIGHT DOORS

 Alarm System:
Weather-tight doors are equipped with an alarm system that alerts personnel
if the door is not properly closed or secured.

 Indicator Lights:
Indicator lights show the status of the door (open, closed, or secured).

 Emergency Release:
An emergency release mechanism allows personnel to quickly open the door
in case of an emergency.

 Secure Locking Mechanism:

Weather-tight doors have a secure locking mechanism to prevent
unauthorized access.

 Reinforced Frames:
Weather-tight doors have reinforced frames to provide additional strength
and stability.

 Watertight Seals:
Weather-tight doors have watertight seals to prevent water from entering.

 Slip-Resistant Surfaces:
Weather-tight doors may have slip-resistant surfaces to prevent accidents.

 Regular Inspection and Maintenance:

Weather-tight doors require regular inspection and maintenance to ensure
proper operation and safety.

34
 SUMMARY AND FUNDAMENTAL DIFFERENCES BETWEEN
WEATHER-TIGHT AND WATERTIGHT DOORS

Weather-tight door are designed to prevent weather conditions (wind, rain,

snow) from entering a ship's superstructure or other areas while Watertight doors
are designed to prevent water from entering a ship's hull in the event of flooding or
damage.
Weather-tight doors are typically made of lighter materials (e.g., aluminum,
fiberglass) and have a simpler design while Watertight doors are made of heavier,
more robust materials (e.g., steel) and have a more complex design to ensure
watertight integrity.
Weather-tight doors have weather-resistant seals and gaskets to prevent
water ingress while Watertight doors have more robust, watertight seals and
gaskets to prevent water ingress in emergency situations.
Weather-tight doors are tested for weather-tightness, but not necessarily for
watertightness while Watertight doors are tested for watertightness and certified to
meet regulatory requirements (e.g., SOLAS, IMO).
Weather-tight doors are typically installed in exterior bulkheads,
superstructures, and other areas exposed to the elements while Watertight doors are
typically installed in subdivision bulkheads, engine rooms, and other areas critical
to the ship's watertight integrity.
Weather-tight doors require regular maintenance to ensure weather-
tightness, but less frequent than watertight doors while Watertight doors require
more frequent and rigorous maintenance to ensure watertight integrity.
In summary, while both types of doors are designed to prevent water ingress,
watertight doors are more robust, complex, and critical to the ship's safety, whereas
weather-tight doors are designed to prevent weather conditions from entering the
ship.

35
 REFERENCE LIST
American Bureau of Shipping. (2020). Rules for building and classing steel
vessels.

American Society of Mechanical Engineers. (2019). ASME B31.1 - Power piping.

Det Norske Veritas. (2020). Rules for classification of ships.

International Association of Classification Societies. (2019). Unified requirements

for watertight subdivision.

International Maritime Organization. (2015). International Convention for the

Safety of Life at Sea (SOLAS).

Lloyd's Register. (2020). Rules and regulations for the classification of ships.

Maritime and Coastguard Agency. (2019). The Merchant Shipping (Watertight

Subdivision) Regulations.

United States Coast Guard. (2019). Title 46, Code of Federal Regulations,
Subchapter F - Watertight subdivision.

36