Ship Hatch Cover Rubber Packing
Rubber packing is an important sealing arrangement fitted around ship hatch covers to make cargo holds weathertight and protect cargo from seawater, rainwater, dust, and moisture during voyages. It forms a tight seal between the hatch cover and hatch coaming when the hatch cover is closed and secured.
The rubber packing is specially designed to withstand heavy compression, cargo operations, harsh weather conditions, temperature variations, and continuous exposure to seawater. Proper maintenance of hatch cover rubber packing is essential to prevent cargo damage and water ingress into cargo holds.
Main parts of a hatch cover sealing arrangement:
• Hatch Cover – Main steel cover protecting the cargo hold opening
• Rubber Packing – Flexible sealing gasket fitted around the hatch cover edge
• Hatch Coaming – Raised steel boundary around the cargo hold opening
• Side Beam – Structural support section of the hatch cover
• Dog Clamp – Secures the hatch cover tightly against the coaming
• Wedge Arrangement – Maintains proper compression and alignment of the cover
• Compression Bar – Provides sealing pressure on the rubber packing
• Drain Channel – Removes water collected around the hatch cover area
Common rubber packing profiles used onboard ships:
• D Profile
• V Profile
• W Profile
• T Profile
• Square Profile
Functions of hatch cover rubber packing:
• Prevents seawater ingress into cargo holds
• Maintains weathertight sealing
• Reduces air and moisture leakage
• Protects cargo from rainwater and dust
• Absorbs vibration and movement during sea operations
A properly maintained hatch cover sealing system is critical for cargo safety, ship stability, and compliance with international maritime safety standards.
