Maintenance Costs
Expected Lifespan
Corrosion Resistance
Stainless Steel Pontoons
for Enhanced Durability and Reduced Maintenance Costs
This case study explores how Jindal Stainless Limited (JSL) supplied Stainless Steel 2304 to M/s Khimji Ramdas LLC in Oman, providing a superior solution to address marine challenges.
In the marine industry, harsh environmental conditions pose significant challenges to equipment durability and longevity. One such critical component is pontoons floating structures that support bridges, platforms, docks, and other marine constructions. Their primary function is to provide buoyancy and stability, ensuring the safe operation of marine infrastructure.
Traditionally, mild steel/galvanised steel has been used in pontoon manufacturing, but it is prone to corrosion and requires extensive maintenance and frequent replacements.
Marine Environments - A Challenge for Traditional Materials
Pontoons in marine environments are subjected to:
Constant saltwater exposure
High humidity
These conditions cause corrosion and degradation of materials such as mild steel. While initial cost savings are possible with traditional materials, the long-term maintenance and repair costs and operational breakdown far outweigh these benefits.
Image Source: Deltin Royal, Goa. Corrosion after 9 years.
As a result, the marine industry seeks materials that can withstand harsh environments while reducing maintenance costs and long life of the equipment.
The Case for M/s Khimji Ramdas LLC, Oman
In 2019, Jindal Stainless supplied 63 metric tonnes of SS 2304 plates to Khimji Ramdas LLC through M/s Toolfab Engineering Industries (P) Ltd, marking a significant shift from traditional materials to stainless steel for pontoon construction.
- Year of Initial Order: 2019
- Material Supplied: HRAP Stainless Steel Plates | Grade: UNS 32304 | Dimension: 5.5x1250x7500mm
- Fabricator: M/s Toolfab Engineering Industries Pvt Ltd, Trichy, Tamil Nadu
- Total Quantity: 63 Metric Tonnes
- Key Benefit: Reduced repair and maintenance costs, extended service life
Fabrication and Installation Details
The pontoons were installed at Lima, Oman, by the Sultanate of Oman in 2020. To date (5 years and running), these pontoons have remained operational without requiring any maintenance, demonstrating the superior performance of stainless steel over traditional materials.
Performance Feedback
“Stainless Steel Pontoons (SS 2304), installed between April and May 2020, have remained maintenance-free and unpainted since installation, resulting in significant long-term cost savings.”
- Khimji Ramdas Official
Life Cycle Comparison: Mild Steel (MS) & Stainless Steel (SS)
Advantages of Stainless Steel in Marine Applications (Pontoons):
Corrosion Resistance
Best-in-class corrosion protection in marine environments
Lightweight and Easy to Install
Easier to handle, install, and transport due to their relatively lightweight compared to traditional materials
Extensive Longevity
Lasts far longer than mild steel pontoon, minimising replacement costs and maximising lifecycle costs
Reduced Maintenance Costs
Unlike mild steel, stainless steel requires minimal upkeep, leading to significant savings over their lifespan.
Durability
Withstands harsh conditions and heavy loads, ensuring long-term operational functionality
High Aesthetic Appeal
The SS pontoons maintain their aesthetic appeal over time without frequent upkeep or painting.
High Strength-to-Weight Ratio
Ensures optimal buoyancy with lighter components
Comparative Analysis: Mild Steel Pontoons vs. Stainless Steel
Performance Metric
Mild Steel Pontoons
Requires regular painting and repairs; up to 60% of the initial cost over its lifespan
20-25 years (with significant maintenance)
Requires regular corrosion protection measures
Stainless Steel Pontoons
Minimal to no maintenance since installation
60–75 years (with minimal to no maintenance)
Inherently corrosion-resistant, no additional protection needed
Current and Future Project Scope
Current Orders
Given the outstanding performance of the stainless steel pontoons, M/s Khimji Ramdas LLC, Oman placed a second order in August 2024 for the development of 9 pontoons.
Total Order Quantity: 307.724 metric tonnes
- Toolfab Engineering Industries (P) Ltd: 259 metric tonnes of stainless steel grade 2304
Dimensions
5mm × 1500 × 10000
10mm × 1500 × 6000
20mm × 1500 × 6000
Quantity
235 tonnes
22.77 tonnes
9.954 tonnes
- Akshay Samvruddhi Technologies India Pvt Ltd: 30 metric tonnes of stainless steel grade 2304
Dimensions
5mm × 1500 × 10000
10mm × 1500 × 6000
Quantity
30 tonnes
10 tonnes
Future Scope
By successfully implementing stainless steel pontoons, Jindal Stainless has set a new standard in marine engineering. These resilient and sustainable structures tackle the challenges of harsh marine environments head-on, while ensuring long-term efficiency and reduced upkeep. This case, therefore, highlights the transformative power of stainless steel in marine applications.
The future of stainless steel in marine applications, especially pontoons, is promising and becoming the material of choice for:
Ship Hulls, Harbours, Ports
Shipping Yard Companies
Offshore Platforms
Petrochemicals, Refineries, Casino & Recreational Events
Floating Solar Panels
Renewable Energy
