Marine Insight: Ship Portholes

Marine portholes, also known as ship windows or hull ports, are critical components in the structural and operational integrity of any seafaring vessel. Installed along the hull or superstructure, these fixtures serve multiple essential functions, including natural illumination, ventilation, and emergency egress, while maintaining the watertight integrity of compartments. In the marine industry, the performance and reliability of portholes directly influence crew safety, vessel habitability, and compliance with international maritime regulations such as SOLAS (Safety of Life at Sea) and classification society standards including CCS, ABS, DNV, and LR.

The primary safety function of a marine porthole lies in its ability to withstand extreme hydrostatic pressure, impact loads, and corrosive seawater environments without compromising the vessel’s watertight envelope. High-quality portholes are engineered with robust frames, tempered or laminated glass, and reliable locking mechanisms to prevent water ingress during heavy weather or vessel listing. Additionally, portholes located in accommodation areas must allow for emergency escape routes, further underscoring their role in life-saving scenarios. Poorly manufactured or improperly installed portholes can lead to catastrophic flooding, structural failure, or non-compliance with safety audits—risks that no vessel operator can afford.

Hangzhou Star Marine Technology Co., Ltd. specializes in the design, manufacturing, and export of marine outfittings, with ship portholes being a core product line. Our portholes are fabricated in strict accordance with international marine standards and undergo rigorous quality testing, including pressure testing, salt spray resistance, and operational cycle validation. We offer a wide range of types, including fixed, opening, deadlight, and storm-proof models, in various materials such as marine-grade aluminum, brass, and stainless steel, ensuring compatibility with different vessel types—from commercial cargo ships and offshore platforms to luxury yachts and naval vessels.

Sourcing portholes from Star Marine China presents significant cost advantages without sacrificing quality. Our vertically integrated production capabilities, advanced CNC machining, and strategic location in Hangzhou—within proximity to major shipping ports—enable efficient manufacturing and logistics. This operational efficiency translates into competitive pricing, shorter lead times, and reliable delivery schedules for global clients. Furthermore, our in-house engineering team supports custom designs and certifications, ensuring seamless integration into newbuild or retrofit projects.

The following table outlines key specifications and compliance standards of our standard porthole series:

Model Type	Material	Glass Type	Pressure Rating	Certification	Operating Temp Range
SM-OP-300	Marine Aluminum	Tempered 19mm	0.5 bar	CCS, ABS	-30°C to +70°C
SM-FX-250	Brass	Laminated 22mm	0.4 bar	DNV, LR	-25°C to +65°C
SM-DL-350	Stainless Steel	Tempered 25mm	0.6 bar	SOLAS, CCS	-40°C to +75°C

By combining engineering excellence with cost-effective manufacturing, Hangzhou Star Marine Technology delivers porthole solutions that enhance vessel safety and operational efficiency, making us a trusted partner in the global marine supply chain.

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Technical Specs & Approval

Technical Specifications for Marine Ship Portholes

Hangzhou Star Marine Technology supplies engineered ship portholes meeting stringent international maritime safety and performance standards. Our portholes are critical components for vessel integrity, ensuring watertight compartmentalization while providing natural illumination and visibility. Precision manufacturing adheres to ISO 14946, SOLAS Chapter II-1 regulations, and classification society requirements (DNV, LR, ABS, CCS). Material selection, pressure tolerance, dimensional accuracy, and sealing efficacy define operational reliability in harsh marine environments.

Material Specifications
Aluminum alloy portholes utilize 5083-H116 marine-grade aluminum, offering optimal corrosion resistance in saltwater exposure and reduced weight for superstructure applications. Steel variants are fabricated from ASTM A36 or equivalent structural steel, hot-dip galvanized or epoxy-coated for enhanced durability in high-impact zones. All metallic components undergo rigorous salt-spray testing per ASTM B117, with aluminum achieving ≥1,000 hours and steel ≥750 hours without base metal corrosion. Glass elements employ laminated marine-grade tempered glass (EN 12504-4), 19-25mm thick, with integrated UV filters to prevent solar degradation.

Watertightness Performance
Watertight integrity is validated through hydrostatic pressure testing at 0.5 bar (7.25 psi) for 10 minutes without leakage, exceeding ISO 14946 Class 1 requirements. Sealing systems integrate dual-compression EPDM rubber gaskets ( Shore A hardness 65±5) with integrated drainage channels to manage incidental water ingress. Hinge and locking mechanisms feature corrosion-resistant stainless steel (ASTM A479 316L) with triple-sealing points, ensuring consistent performance after 10,000 operational cycles. All units undergo vacuum testing to detect micro-leakage prior to shipment.

Dimensional Standards
Porthole dimensions follow ISO 14747 nominal sizing conventions, with actual clear opening diameters ranging from 250mm to 500mm. Frame thickness varies by material and pressure class: aluminum frames measure 45-65mm, while steel frames range from 50-75mm to accommodate higher structural loads. Standard faceplate configurations include round, oval, and rectangular profiles, with bespoke geometries available per SOLAS-approved drawings. Critical tolerances for frame flatness (≤0.5mm/m) and bore concentricity (≤0.3mm) ensure seamless integration with shipyard hull plating.

The table below summarizes key technical parameters for standard export configurations:

Parameter	Aluminum Alloy Porthole	Steel Porthole	Test Standard
Material Grade	5083-H116	ASTM A36 + Galv.	ASTM B209 / A36
Pressure Rating	0.5 bar static	0.6 bar static	ISO 14946
Dimension Range	Ø250mm – Ø500mm	Ø300mm – Ø500mm	ISO 14747
Frame Thickness	45-65mm	50-75mm	Project Drawing
Glazing Type	Laminated Tempered Glass	Laminated Tempered	EN 12504-4
Sealing System	Dual EPDM Compression	Triple EPDM Seal	ISO 22810
Corrosion Testing	≥1,000 hrs (ASTM B117)	≥750 hrs (ASTM B117)	ASTM B117

Custom dimensions and materials are engineered per client specifications, with full documentation packages including 3D models, material certs, and pressure test reports. All portholes are supplied with installation alignment templates and torque specifications for flange bolting. Compliance with flag state regulations is verified through third-party certification upon request, ensuring seamless integration into global vessel construction and retrofit projects.

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Shipbuilding Solutions

Hangzhou Star Marine Technology Co., Ltd. delivers comprehensive marine outfittings solutions tailored specifically for shipbuilding and repair projects worldwide. As a trusted provider in the maritime industry, we specialize in high-performance ship portholes that meet rigorous international standards for safety, durability, and seaworthiness. Our integrated approach ensures seamless integration of portholes into both new vessel construction and retrofitting operations, providing shipyards and shipowners with reliable, time-efficient, and compliant solutions.

Our portholes are engineered to withstand extreme marine environments, featuring corrosion-resistant materials such as marine-grade brass, stainless steel, and tempered glass. Each unit is designed to provide optimal watertight integrity, pressure resistance, and long-term operational reliability. Whether for passenger vessels, offshore support ships, or commercial cargo carriers, Star Marine’s portholes are certified to comply with classification societies including CCS, ABS, DNV, LR, and BV, ensuring global acceptance and regulatory alignment.

In new shipbuilding projects, we work closely with design teams and naval architects to supply portholes that match technical specifications and aesthetic requirements. Our technical support team provides CAD drawings, installation guidelines, and material certifications at the earliest stages of construction, minimizing delays and ensuring compatibility with hull design and interior layouts. For ship repair and retrofit applications, we offer rapid assessment and replacement services, with a global logistics network enabling fast delivery of standard and customized units.

We maintain an extensive inventory of standard porthole models in various sizes and configurations, allowing for immediate dispatch. In cases requiring customization—such as non-standard dimensions, special glass treatments, or enhanced sealing systems—our in-house R&D and manufacturing capabilities support quick turnaround without compromising quality.

The following table outlines key technical specifications and options available across our porthole product line:

Feature	Specification
Material Options	Marine brass, 316 stainless steel, aluminum alloy
Glass Type	Laminated safety glass, tempered glass, double-glazed
Diameter Range	200 mm to 450 mm (standard), custom sizes available
Pressure Rating	Up to 0.6 bar (positive), watertight under dynamic load
Certifications	CCS, ABS, DNV, LR, BV, ISO 9001
Sealing System	EPDM or NBR O-rings, double-seal design
Opening Mechanism	Hinged, sliding, or fixed types
Surface Finish	Polished, brushed, or coated for enhanced corrosion resistance

Star Marine Technology prioritizes responsiveness in all phases of service delivery. Our export department operates 24/7 to support urgent repair needs, offering technical consultation, documentation processing, and door-to-port logistics coordination. With years of experience serving shipyards across Asia, the Middle East, Europe, and Africa, we understand the critical importance of timing and precision in marine projects.

By combining engineering excellence, global compliance, and agile supply chain management, Hangzhou Star Marine Technology ensures that every porthole we deliver contributes to the structural integrity and operational efficiency of the vessel. Partner with us for a seamless, certified, and future-ready marine outfittings solution.

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Packaging & Logistics

Packaging & Logistics Protocol for Marine Portholes
Hangzhou Star Marine Technology implements rigorously engineered packaging solutions to ensure marine portholes withstand global transit demands. All wooden export crates comply strictly with International Standards for Phytosanitary Measures No. 15 (ISPM 15). This mandatory regulation requires heat treatment (HT) of solid wood packaging materials to 56°C core temperature for minimum 30 minutes, eliminating pest transmission risks. Each wooden case bears the official ISPM 15 certification mark, laser-etched for permanence, verifying compliance with FAO standards. Cases utilize kiln-dried, knot-free plywood with moisture content below 20%, reinforced with marine-grade galvanized steel strapping at critical stress points. Internal cushioning employs closed-cell polyethylene foam with anti-corrosion volatile corrosion inhibitor (VCI) paper wrapping directly contacting metal components, preventing salt-induced oxidation during ocean voyages.

Steel pallets serve as primary load bases for consolidated shipments, constructed from 3mm thick hot-rolled steel with non-slip surfaces and reinforced stringers. All pallets undergo zinc-rich epoxy priming to resist atmospheric corrosion during port handling. Porthole assemblies are secured using tensioned polyester straps with break strengths exceeding 1,500 kg, supplemented by edge protectors to prevent strap-induced deformation. Critical labeling includes:
ISO-standard shipping marks with consignee/notify party details
Orientation arrows and “Fragile” indicators per IMDG Code
ISPM 15 certification stamp visible on all wooden elements
Unique serialized tracking codes linked to our ERP system

For exports originating from Ningbo-Zhoushan or Shanghai Port Complex—the world’s two busiest container ports—we coordinate with certified freight forwarders specializing in marine outfittings. Pre-shipment documentation includes phytosanitary certificates for wooden packaging, commercial invoices detailing HS Code 8302.50 (portholes), and packing lists specifying gross/net weights. Container loading utilizes dunnage mats to isolate cargo from container floor moisture, with humidity indicators placed internally. Transit times from Hangzhou factory to vessel loading average 48 hours for Ningbo shipments and 72 hours for Shanghai, leveraging our pre-approved AEO (Authorized Economic Operator) status for expedited customs clearance.

Standard Packaging Specifications

Packaging Type	Internal Dimensions (L×W×H)	Max Gross Weight	Treatment Standard	Key Features
Wooden Export Case	Custom per order (min. 600×600×400mm)	1,200 kg	ISPM 15 HT Certified	Double-wall construction, VCI paper lining, IP67 rated seals
Steel Transport Pallet	1,200×1,000×150mm	2,500 kg	Zinc-epoxy coated	Forklift entry on 4 sides, non-skid surface, RFID tracking option

All shipments undergo pre-transit vibration testing per ISO 13355 and humidity chamber validation at 95% RH for 72 hours. We mandate container inspections prior to loading to verify dryness and structural integrity, significantly reducing moisture-related claims. Clients receive digital shipment dossiers including real-time GPS tracking and condition monitoring data, ensuring full supply chain visibility from Hangzhou warehouse to destination port. This integrated approach minimizes transit damage incidents to below 0.3% across our export portfolio.

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Contact Star Marine

For marine outfittings that meet the highest standards of durability, safety, and compliance, Hangzhou Star Marine Technology Co., Ltd. stands as a trusted name in the global maritime industry. Specializing in premium ship portholes, we deliver engineered solutions designed for optimal performance in harsh marine environments. Our products are built in strict accordance with international classification society standards, including CCS, ABS, DNV, LR, and BV, ensuring seamless integration into new builds and retrofit projects alike.

At Star Marine, we recognize that selecting the right porthole involves more than just dimensions and materials—it requires a deep understanding of vessel specifications, operational conditions, and regulatory compliance. Whether you are outfitting a commercial vessel, offshore platform, or luxury yacht, our engineering team provides tailored recommendations to match your technical and aesthetic requirements. From watertight integrity to corrosion resistance and thermal insulation, every porthole we manufacture undergoes rigorous quality control and testing to ensure long-term reliability at sea.

Our product range includes fixed and opening-type portholes in various diameters, materials (marine-grade brass, stainless steel, and aluminum), and glazing configurations (single or double tempered glass with optional UV protection). Available in round, rectangular, and custom shapes, our portholes are designed for easy installation and minimal maintenance, contributing to reduced lifecycle costs.

To support our global clients, we offer comprehensive technical documentation, 3D CAD models, and certification packages upon request. Our export department manages logistics efficiently, ensuring timely delivery to ports worldwide through reliable freight partners. With a strong track record in supplying shipyards across Southeast Asia, the Middle East, Europe, and Africa, Star Marine is positioned to support your project with precision and professionalism.

For direct assistance with product selection, technical specifications, or quotation requests, we encourage you to contact our Product Manager, Kacher YE. With extensive experience in marine outfittings and export operations, Kacher serves as your dedicated point of contact to ensure clear communication and efficient project coordination.

Below are key contact and company details:

Detail	Information
Company Name	Hangzhou Star Marine Technology Co., Ltd.
Product Category	Marine Outfittings – Ship Portholes
Product Manager	Kacher YE
Email	[email protected]
Headquarters Location	Hangzhou, Zhejiang, China
Export Regions	Global (Asia, Middle East, Europe, Africa, etc.)
Certifications	CCS, ABS, DNV, LR, BV

We invite you to reach out today to discuss your porthole requirements. Partner with Hangzhou Star Marine Technology for marine outfittings engineered for excellence and backed by expert support.

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