HATCHChecker
Precision onboard ultrasound testing for hatch-cover tightness
Starting at:
$4,495
The HATCHChecker is SDT’s purpose-built ultrasound tool for validating hatch-cover and cargo hold integrity. Equipped with an ultrasonic tone generator and integrated sensor, it allows operators to check weathertight/seawater-tight compartments quickly and accurately.
Compact, intuitive and designed for the marine environment, HATCHChecker helps shipboard teams ensure cargo holds, hatches, containers and other sealed compartments remain tight, safe and ready for transit.
The tool uses a built-in ultrasonic tone generator placed inside the cargo hold or sealed compartment. The HATCHChecker receiver listens on the outside. Any ultrasonic signal escaping through gaskets, joints, drains or coamings indicates a leak path. This method allows pinpoint accuracy and repeatable results.
It is ideal for hatch-cover cross-joint testing, container/tween-deck tightness, water ingress inspections, holds in loaded or unloaded condition, and other shipboard sealed compartments where tightness matters.
Minimal. HATCHChecker is designed for ease of use out of the box. For deeper competence in marine ultrasound tightness testing, SDT’s marine programme offers a certified training course.
Why Work with SDT
Shipboard Integrity and Why It Matters
In the shipping industry, integrity of hatch covers, and sealed compartments is mission-critical. Leaking hatches allow seawater, weather, humidity or dust ingress, leading to wet-cargo damage, severe P&I claims, cargo loss and delays. For instance:
Studies show that leaking hatch covers contributed to approximately 46% of seawater ingress wet damage claims in bulk carriers.
Over 40% of P&I cargo claims are due to water ingress through hatch covers, costing the industry tens of millions each year.
Traditional testing methods (hose, chalk) detect contact only, but don’t reliably measure packing compression or dynamic movement under sea state. Ultrasound has become the preferred method for accurate, repeatable tightness validation.
Operator-Driven Tightness Testing
Shipboard teams play a key role in reliability, safety and cargo integrity. HATCHChecker fits into SDT’s Operator-Driven Safety & Reliability (ODSR) philosophy by giving operators an ultrasound tool that enables them to test sealed compartments as part of routine inspections.
Empowered operators detect leaks early, flag issues before they escalate, and help keep the vessel’s cargo, schedule and reputation moving smoothly.
Benefits of an ODR Approach to Hatch-Cover Testing
Confidently validate hatch covers, cross-joints and coamings for weathertightness.
Protect cargo from damage and protect vessel from claims.
Avoid unscheduled delays, port rework and supply-chain disruption.
One-operator ultrasound testing is faster, cleaner and more accurate than traditional methods.
By protecting cargo and vessel integrity you avoid wasteful losses and maintain asset value.
Integrating HATCHChecker Into Your Marine Maintenance Strategy
01
Identify critical compartments
List hatches, holds, containers and enclosures where tightness is vital for cargo safety and voyage integrity.
02
Engage your marine-maintenance teams
Align hatch-cover testing with voyage readiness, hull integrity audits, and quality/cargo stakeholders.
03
Equip your crew with HATCHChecker
Provide the ultrasound tightness tool plus tone generator and free SDT training resources to onboard your operators.
04
Measure, verify and sustain results
Track test outcomes, repair actions, tightness records and cargo damage avoidance.
