Far Eastern Federal University (FEFU) has developed a technology for welding restoration of metal structures, which allows repairs to be carried out directly in Arctic conditions without sending parts to the factory. This involves arc cladding of bimetal in a protective gas environment – a method designed for working with pipelines, ship hulls, and elements of offshore platforms.
The development is aimed at conditions where metal quickly deteriorates due to cold, salt water, and constant abrasive action of ice. In essence, the technology allows restoring worn-out sections of structures on-site, forming a wear-resistant bimetallic layer.
Tests of prototypes were carried out in cooperation with Peter the Great St. Petersburg Polytechnic University. The materials were tested in several directions: tensile and bending strength, abrasion resistance, metal structure under a microscope, and behavior in an aggressive corrosive environment simulating the Arctic sea.
The development has already been integrated into the university's educational programs and formed the basis of new training courses aimed at preparing engineers for Arctic projects.