MOL & Partners Successfully Test Laser-Based Rust Removal On Ship Hull

Mitsui O.S.K. Lines (MOL), along with MOL Drybulk, Furukawa Electric, and TSUNEISHI Shipbuilding, successfully tested the “InfraLaser” rust and coating removal system on the outer hull of a vessel in December 2024.

This trial will reduce environmental impact, improve working conditions, and advance ship maintenance and repair automation.

Furukawa Electric, in collaboration with MOL and MOL Drybulk, has been working since 2021 on a laser-based system for rust and coating removal during ship maintenance.

Based on industrial laser applications, the technology aims to replace traditional sandblasting. Since 2022, Furukawa Electric and TSUNEISHI Shipbuilding have conducted demonstration tests to refine the system for ship repair applications.

Ship maintenance requires the removal of rust and coatings for inspections and repainting. The conventional sandblasting process uses abrasive materials, leading to the spread of debris, including paint and waste particles.

This method necessitates additional cleanup eff…

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