In the dynamic world of metallurgy and maritime engineering, One Eighty Materials Engineering stands out with a remarkable journey spanning over two decades. Established in 2002, this pioneering enterprise has etched its legacy by seamlessly blending innovation with reliability. Dr Janet Cotton, a visionary metallurgist with over 35 years of experience, is the visionary founder. As Africa’s most widely scoped ISO 17025:2017 materials testing laboratory and being a uniquely Bureau Veritas approved lab, the company’s commitment to uncompromising quality shines bright.
Metallurgy affects strength, durability, and innovation in superyacht construction and repair. Metallurgical engineering, the art of manipulating and enhancing metals’ properties, is pivotal in shaping design options and construction possibilities. From the initial blueprint to the final voyage, metallurgy weaves its influence at every stage, contributing to construction and repairs.
Construction: crafting maritime marvels
At the heart of every superyacht lies a complex network of metal components meticulously engineered to withstand the forces of the open sea. Metallurgical expertise ensures that the chosen metals are not only robust but also resistant to the corrosive effects of the marine environment. Whether selecting the alloys for the hull, optimising the structural components’ strength-to-weight ratio, or ensuring proper weld integrity, metallurgy guides the construction process to create visually stunning vessels and engineering marvels.
Advanced metallurgical techniques also allow for the integration of innovative materials, such as composites, which combine the strength of metals with the versatility of polymers. This marriage of materials pushes the boundaries of what superyachts can achieve, enabling the creation of lighter, faster, and more fuel-efficient vessels without compromising safety or performance.
Repair and Refit: breathing new life into legends
As the years pass, even the most formidable superyachts require maintenance and occasional repairs to ensure they continue to deliver exceptional experiences on the water. This is where metallurgical engineering shines once again. Experts delve into the intricacies of materials used in the vessel’s construction, analysing wear patterns, corrosion, and structural integrity. Metallurgical assessments guide repair processes, ensuring that replacements or modifications integrate with the existing structure. These insights are crucial in upgrading vessels to meet modern standards while preserving their unique character. Metallurgy paves the way for superyachts to maintain their allure and embrace new technologies and functionalities, from assessing the condition of metal components to recommending corrosion-resistant coatings and treatments.
Meticulous materials testing and analysis
One Eighty’s arsenal of tests, from tensile and elongation testing to bend and paint application analysis, provide valuable insights that empower designers and shipyards to make informed decisions. Delamination testing ensures the integrity of coatings, while corrosion/exposure assessments simulate the harshest marine environments. Using sophisticated computer modelling, finite elemental analysis optimises the balance between strength and weight. The team has a wealth of experience in metals and advanced materials, including composites, resins, polymers, and GRP.
Root cause failure investigation and expert witness services: Engineering excellence
As accredited professional engineers for over 21 years, One Eighty assumes the role of a trusted expert witness. The company’s prowess in root cause failure investigations and technical problem resolution, led by Dr Janet Cotton, provides invaluable insights into the intricate world of maritime problem-solving. They are involved in training with One Eighty’s ISO 17025-accredited weld procedure qualification. On-site testing for duplex welding, Ferrite count, and comprehensive corrosion assessments guarantee structural stability and longevity.
One Eighty has over 1400 clients globally. They are a uniquely Bureau Veritas Marine and Offshore approved laboratory, and the only materials testing lab in Africa that is a SASSDA (Southern African Stainless Steel Development Association) Member. One Eighty is also a member of the International Laboratory Accreditation Cooperation (ILAC) and the South African Institute of Marine Engineers and Naval Architects.
If you would like to learn more about advanced materials testing, you can contact Dr. Janet Cotton and her team via their website or pop them an email.
