Baltimore Conference Report


The IIMS Conference in Baltimore on 18/19 January, held at the well-appointed MITAGS Conference centre, was attended by a healthy number of real time delegates, joined by a number of others remotely using the Zoom platform from as far afield as Mexico and Vancouver. Apart from IIMS members, it was particularly pleasing to see a good number from other American surveying organisations taking part. IIMS is grateful to Regional Director, James Renn, for getting the programme together and hosting the event.


Capt. John McDevitt spoke at length about performing vessel electrical surveys, an area that remains a dark art for some surveyors. John brought his almost encyclopaedic knowledge of US electrical codes and standards into his presentation.


Wooden Boat Inspections. Gary Lowell brought decades of wooden boat building and repairs experience to the meeting as he talked about all aspects of construction design and repair procedures.


Capt. John McDevitt Gary Lowell


In an unbilled, extra presentation, Capt. Bill Ackley talked about surveying inspected US vessels and SubChapter M.


James Renn introduced the group to some 100 year old technology now gaining traction in the form of the Flettner Rotor, as shipowners seeks ways to use less and cleaner fuel.


Craig Norton, a younger, second generation marine surveyor has developed reporting software called InspectX, enabling the survey findings and results to be entered whilst on the vessel using a tablet (or mobile device). In his presentation, he gave an overview of how the system works.


Capt. Bill Ackley James Renn


Ken Weinbrecht tackled the thorniest of subjects in a fascinating presentation when he considered the value of the service a marine surveyor provides. Whilst not making a recommendation on what to charge, he reminded those present not to undersell themselves.


Jeff Smith, Cool2sea and Clear2sea enclosure panels, gave an insight into the acrylic panel materials and systems.


Craig Norton Ken Weinbrecht


Andrew Tuhan, who is engaged in superyacht surveys and management, spoke in great detail about the challenges of inspecting these large vessels, which are quite unlike the craft many surveyors encounter on a regular basis.


Michael Richardson introduced the Entratech concept to delegates. Entratech is introducing its fully approved fuel water separators with alarm that informs the operator of a water peril before water can reach the engine.


Dylan Bailey talked about non-destructive testing, an area in which he has a lot of knowledge. He brought to the meeting experience and methodologies many of which were unknown or unpractised by surveyors.


Jeff Smith Andrew Tuhan


Ted Thies discussed the development and application of the next step in polymer coating protection against corrosion and marine growth fouling - ultra-tight surface structure results in no penetration, moisture migration or marine growth adhesion to this material developed from the sub-molecular level up.


Craig McBurney gave a sobering presentation. He spoke about the work being undertaken to identify disabled veterans prior to their committing suicide. He explained how vessel maintenance, tall ships, service and refitting are used as springboards in disabled veterans.


View many of the presentations from Baltimore on the IIMS You Tube channel.


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