Thu, 29 May, 2025
TWI Thailand was proud to participate as a key speaker at the “Study Visit & Workshop: Welding for Shipbuilding and Repairing”, held from 21–22 May 2025 at the Mahidol Adulyadej Naval Dockyard in Sattahip, Chonburi, Thailand. The event was hosted by the Thai Shipbuilding and Repairing Association (TSRA) with the goal of strengthening industry knowledge and practical understanding of advanced welding processes in the shipbuilding sector.
Led by Mr. Satanphop Amsupan, Country Manager of TWI Thailand, the delegation contributed valuable technical insights, further highlighting TWI’s commitment to sharing global expertise with the local maritime industry.
Tong Shares Expert Knowledge on Wet Welding and AR Welding
TWI Thailand’s representative, Tong, took the stage to present on two cutting-edge topics: Underwater Wet Welding and Augmented Reality (AR) Welding, both of which are critical to modernizing welding practices and enhancing workforce training in the shipbuilding and repair industry.
Wet Welding: Welding Beneath the Surface
Wet welding, also known as underwater welding, is a specialized process where welding operations are carried out directly in the water. Typically using shielded metal arc welding (SMAW), this technique is vital for offshore structures, ship repair, and underwater pipelines.
Tong highlighted how wet welding plays a pivotal role in emergency repairs, underwater construction, and the maintenance of marine vessels. Despite its complexity and challenging conditions, the process remains essential for maintaining infrastructure where dry-docking is impractical.
AR Welding: Innovation in Skills Training
The second part of Tong’s presentation focused on Augmented Reality (AR) Welding, a technology-driven approach that’s revolutionizing the way welders are trained. AR welding simulators use a combination of real-world tools and computer-generated graphics to create realistic welding scenarios without the need for actual materials, gases, or electricity.
Key benefits of AR Welding include:
- Safe, cost-effective training for new learners
- Real-time feedback on welding technique and posture
- Reduced material waste
- Repeatable practice environments, ideal for skill-building
Notably, Tong shared that the AR Welding Simulator Unit is currently in action at TWI’s Thailand National Skills (TNS) centre, where it is being actively used to enhance practical training for students and professionals. The unit supports TWI’s mission to bridge the gap between traditional skills and modern technology, preparing the next generation of welders for real-world demands.
A Platform for Collaboration and Progress
The two-day workshop provided a valuable platform for dialogue and knowledge exchange between industry professionals, vocational instructors, and curriculum developers. By bringing together educational and industrial stakeholders, the event successfully aligned academic training with practical requirements in the field.
TWI Thailand is honored to have contributed to this initiative, supporting the Thai shipbuilding and repair industry with world-class welding knowledge and forward-thinking solutions. The event reaffirmed the importance of collaboration in developing a skilled, future-ready workforce for Thailand’s maritime sector.