Kamran Mian, Mechanical Design Manager, plays a pivotal role in the Removable Keel Blocks Project, a major initiative transforming maintenance capabilities for vessels at HMNB Portsmouth. Working closely with the Project Manager and the Waterfront & Civils Design Manager , Kamran has been instrumental in driving the project forward – from setting up trials to refining hydraulic systems and collaborating with telehandler suppliers to meet the unique dockside constraints. His focus is on improving usability for end users while ensuring seamless project delivery.
A Passion for Variety and Challenge
Kamran’s remit spans both Waterfront and System projects. His Waterfront work focuses on the design and integration of specialist assets, including lifting equipment and heavy load handling systems, which are essential for supporting naval operations. On the Systems side, he is involved in developing mechanical services across buildings, with an emphasis on integrating renewable energy technologies and reducing the base’s carbon footprint.
What Kamran enjoys most about his role is the sheer variety – working across a broad spectrum of projects keeps him learning, adapting, and applying his expertise to fresh challenges. This diversity ensures that each day is stimulating and that his work remains meaningful.
The Excitement of Delivering Impactful Projects
Currently managing an active portfolio of 25 to 35 projects, Kamran thrives on the dynamic pace and scale of his responsibilities. The workload ranges from minor works to large, multi-million-pound endeavours. Each project brings its own technical intricacies, stakeholder requirements, and opportunities for innovation. This vibrant environment, where no two days are the same, makes his role both engaging and rewarding.
Understanding Keel Blocks and Their Importance
Central to the project are the keel blocks themselves – structural supports in a dry dock that carry a vessel’s weight during construction, repair, or maintenance. Industry regulations require that, during major dry-dock inspections, a vessel’s entire hull must be accessible. Traditionally, this means moving the vessel to expose areas covered by the blocks, a process known as fleeting. However, fleeting is not viable for Type 45 vessels due to their specific load distribution and docking layout. The solution is to develop removable keel blocks, allowing each block to be individually taken out so the full hull can be accessed for essential maintenance.
Overcoming Project Challenges
The journey to deliver removable keel blocks has not been without its hurdles. The team is now on the third iteration of the project, following two unsuccessful attempts. From the outset, the project has faced significant scrutiny due to its critical importance -without a workable solution, it impacts Naval Operations. Through persistent effort, the team has refined its approach, solved technical challenges, and maintained momentum to keep the project moving towards a successful outcome.
Collaboration at the Core
Collaboration has been fundamental to the project’s progress. KBS Maritime has worked closely with a number of specialist teams. BAE Systems provided detailed finite element analysis (FEA) to understand the stresses on the vessel’s hull, keel blocks, and dock floor. Malin Group was responsible for constructing the removable keel blocks and their components. Key internal stakeholders – such as the Docking Party, Strategy, and Engineering teams – have contributed vital technical guidance and operational insight throughout the project.
Lessons for the Future
Reflecting on the project, Kamran highlights the importance of validating assumptions early, especially when dealing with complex load-bearing systems and multiple constraints. He also emphasises the value of clear, consistent communication among stakeholders – crucial when project outcomes directly affect vessel availability. These lessons will continue to shape the team’s approach as they deliver innovative solutions for the Royal Navy’s future.
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