Basra’s leading expert in rust removal for fishing boats

AL-FAW — In a rundown section of the Al-Faw port in southern Iraq, Engineer Hardan Jabib is hard at work restoring a large boat to its former glory. With a hose in hand, he diligently scrubs away layers of rust clinging to the boat’s sides. Protecting himself from the swirling dust, Jabib wears a traditional cloth wrapped around his head and a sturdy pair of industrial work glasses. His dedication to this task is emblematic of the skilled workers who labor amidst the lively maritime activity of the port.

This intricate process involves utilizing specific types of sand for precise durations, taking into account wind movements during the operation. Jasib highlights rust accumulation as the most dangerous threat to iron-made fishing boats, potentially leading to sudden holes while at sea and causing them to sink.

He specializes in maintaining and repairing boats in Al-Faw district and beyond, descending to sea level for visible repairs above water.

“Most of the boats I repair have been halted for prolonged periods due to fuel shortages or other reasons,” Jasib shared with 964media.

He cleverly utilizes the tide phenomenon to create a barrier between the boat’s bottom and the water, facilitating unobstructed work.

The process initiates with purifying sand, removing impurities like stones and gravel. Rust removal from iron boats involves blasting sand with a hot air pump in a technique referred to as “sand plus.”
Subsequently, the “water plus” step entails thorough cleaning with a water pump, followed by drying with a hot air hose to prepare the area for painting. Epoxy, a prime choice for painting, is meticulously mixed for 20-25 minutes and applied in three coats.

Cleaning duration varies depending on the boat’s size and the extent of rust, typically ranging from 3-5 days, sometimes longer, to ensure no rust remains pre-painting. Costs fluctuate based on damage and size, averaging between one and a half million dinars (approximately $750 to $325).

Jasib’s work heavily relies on weather conditions as he operates outdoors in exposed settings. “I prefer working when winds are blowing from the north as it aids in rust and moisture drying,” he explains, his attire fully covered in toxic dust from his labor.