Rovco awarded contract at Galloper Offshore Wind Farm
Rovco, a leading global provider of subsea robotic and hydrographic survey solutions, has been awarded a contract for the provision of offshore rock bag deployment and installation at the Galloper Offshore Wind Farm in the Outer Thames Estuary.
The project scope covers the application of an operator engineered solution for the installation of rock bags, which need to be placed at precise locations on and around the Cable Protection Systems (CPS) on the wind farm, located 27km off the Suffolk coast.
Following previous subsea surveys, rock bag placement was selected from a number of options considered by the operator as the most suitable solution to eliminate or vastly reduce excess cable movement of the CPS, stabilising and prolonging the life of the array cables which carry the generated electricity from the wind turbines.
Rovco will deploy the DPII subsea support vessel VOS Star, on charter from Vroon Offshore Services, during the project. The vessel will be pre-installed with cutting-edge survey equipment and Rovco’s powerful Seaeye Leopard WROV which will be fully calibrated, and system tested for swift commencement.
The project is led by personnel from Rovco’s experienced offshore team and a dedicated onshore project manager who will be assigned to the project throughout, to ensure safe and efficient operations.
The 353MW Galloper Offshore Wind Farm has a site area of 180km2 with wind turbine generators located in depths between 26.5m-39.5m (LAT). Galloper’s 56 turbines will generate enough green electricity every year to power the equivalent of more than 380,000 average homes in the UK.
Sean Chenery, General Manager at Galloper Offshore Wind Farm said, “We selected Rovco to install the rock bag solution due to their knowledge, experience and competitiveness in subsea operations. Placing rock bags on live cables at water depths of 26m–39m with tight tolerances is where Rovco’s equipment excels.”
Simon Miller, Chief Revenue Officer of Rovco, and its sister company Vaarst, said, “Engineering solutions to extend the life of critical subsea infrastructure and ensuring uptime of these offshore assets and installations is crucial. This award by Galloper Offshore Wind Farm, to help them detect issues and implement their designed solution post engineering analysis, is testament to our team’s efforts across the company and real recognition of our growing presence in this market. We are thankful to Galloper for placing their trust in us to deliver an efficient, safe, cost-effective solution.”
“Rovco’s highly experienced team and our expertise in developing and providing subsea solutions for the offshore wind sector can help operators, detect, report, consult, design and implement mitigation programmes to limit the effects of existing issues, whilst minimising the risk of problems arising in the future and most importantly prolonging the life of major subsea components to extend operations.”
Sonardyne’s Ranger 2 USBL for MBARI’s state-of-the-art research ship
US oceanographic research centre Monterey Bay Aquarium Research Institute (MBARI) has chosen deepwater positioning technology from Sonardyne for its new, state-of-the-art scientific flagship the R/V David Packard.
The 50 m-long research vessel, named in honour of MBARI’s founder, David Packard, is being built to undertake a diverse range of missions in Monterey Bay and beyond, supporting the institute’s mission to advance marine science and technology to understand a changing ocean.
Once operational, the ship will accommodate up to 18 researchers and will enable MBARI’s continued exploration of the deep sea, from the midnight zone to the abyssal seafloor. The R/V David Packard will be the command center for the ROV Doc Ricketts, MBARI’s deep-diving remotely operated vehicle. The new research vessel will also be capable of deploying a variety of autonomous underwater vehicles (AUVs).
Underpinning this deep-water capability will be Sonardyne’s Ranger 2 Ultra-Short BaseLine (USBL) system, with an HPT 7000 transceiver, which will be integrated into the vessel via a Sonardyne deployment machine.
The choice means the R/V Packard is the latest in a line of MBARI vessels to utilise a Sonardyne USBL system for its science missions. In fact, MBARI was an early adopter of Sonardyne’s first USBL system, installing it on the institute’s very first research vessel, Point Lobos (retired in 2012), in the early 1990s. The R/V Western Flyer, MBARI’s current flagship vessel that will be retired this fall ahead of the arrival of the R/V David Packard in late 2023, was also fitted with Sonardyne’s first USBL system and has upgraded over the years to the latest, industry standard Ranger 2.
Ranger 2 is also the preferred USBL solution for many of the world’s leading ocean research institutes, where efficient use of vessel time and accuracy are paramount. It provides researchers with the ultimate flexibility, with its capability to track and communicate simultaneously with multiple scientific instruments, vehicles or towed platforms, at ranges up to 10,000 m. With Ranger 2, operations from seafloor geodesy through to AUV survey missions are supported, anywhere in the ocean.
“The ocean is vital to life on Earth. In the face of rising threats like climate change, MBARI's work is more important than ever. We depend on a suite of diverse research tools to study the ocean. Sonardyne technology will help coordinate these instruments to give us valuable insight into a changing ocean,” said MBARI Director of Marine Operations Michael Kelly.
Geraint West, head of science at Sonardyne, commented, “We’ve had a long-running and close relationship with MBARI, so we’re really proud to be part of the next chapter in their story. At Sonardyne, we strongly believe in the critical work that MBARI is engaged in, as a better understanding of our changing oceans is critical to the future well-being of our planet.”
The ship is being built at the Freire Shipyard in Vigo, Spain and the order for the Ranger 2 system for the R/V David Packard was placed via Spanish integration company/agent EMA, Sistemas de Monitorizacion.
Focus on ‘The Energy Field of the Future’ at joint industry event on 10 November 2022 in Aberdeen
The International Marine Contractors Association (IMCA), The Society for Underwater Technology (SUT), and The Hydrographic Society UK and Ireland (THS: UK&I) Scotland Branch are jointly holding their well-respected joint industry seminar on 10 November 2022 in Aberdeen, UK. This year the seminar has a highly topical theme – ‘The Energy Field of the Future’.
As IMCA’s Technical Director, Stephen Peet, explained: “The energy industry is currently experiencing a period of significant change, with ever increasing focus on sustainability, while marine and underwater technologies continue to advance.
“With this scale of change ongoing, what does the field of the future look like, and how close are we to achieving ‘Net Zero’ targets? What transformative technologies and strategies will have the greatest impact to: operational efficiency, value creation, and Net Zero operations? How do we accelerate the integration of these solutions within our existing offshore assets? Our keynote speaker will certainly have some interesting views on these topics.”
Following a networking breakfast, the packed day will get off to a flying start with a keynote address by Greg Jones of Total E&P UK. who is working with the Net Zero Technology Centre to assist companies to develop new technology and to support the move to Net Zero.
A dozen other speakers then take part in four sessions – the first on Visualisation; the second in the morning is on Robotics, in which IMCA’s Technical Adviser – Remote Systems and ROV, Andre Rose, will speak on ‘Development of USV Technologies’. Earlier this year, IMCA published Safe and Efficient Use of an Uncrewed Surface Vessel (USV)’ (IMCA M 257). in order to establish best practice for the safe and efficient use of this new and rapidly developing technology.
Following lunch, which provides another networking opportunity, the topic turns to Communication; then Alternative Energy follows bringing an informative, stimulating, and constructive day to an end.
In addition to Greg Jones and Andre Rose, speakers are drawn from 3DGP; FutureOn; Oceaneering; STL; Nauticus Robotics; Imenco; Sonardyne; C-Power Alba; Blackbird; and Crondall Energy. The full programme and registration information can be found here.
Delegate fees are £149 + VAT for members of the three organisations; and £199 + VAT for non-members. A limited number of discounted places are available for Students.
Kraken receives $1.1 million Synthetic Aperture Sonar order for NATO Navy customers
Kraken Robotics Inc. (TSX-V: PNG, OTCQB: KRKNF), announces a $1.1 million purchase order from an unnamed customer for several of our AquaPix® synthetic aperture sonars (SAS). These systems will be integrated to Autonomous Underwater Vehicles (AUVs) for delivery to two distinct NATO navies. Delivery is expected in the first half of 2023.
Kraken’s AquaPix® is an off the shelf, configurable SAS that replaces high end sidescan systems at an affordable price, while delivering higher resolution, range, and area coverage rates (ACR). The increased range, resolution, and therefore higher useable ACR of SAS over traditional Side Scan Sonar systems significantly expand the capabilities of naval, scientific, and commercial applications. Kraken’s AquaPix is capable of 2 cm x 2 cm Ultra High-Definition SAS imaging at long ranges. AquaPix is uniquely positioned within the industry to bring this capability to the increasingly popular small, man-portable vehicle class. AquaPix is modular and has been integrated and deployed on over 20 different underwater vehicle platforms from shallow water to full ocean depth. Kraken’s SAS is modular and versatile, demonstrated by being one of only two companies in the world that has sold and integrated SAS into small, man portable vehicles, towed systems, and deep-water vehicles. This ability to cross several platforms enables military customers to streamline their Post Mission Analysis by having the same sonar resolution and ATR performance across their entire fleet of vehicles and mission requirements.
Groupe Gorgé acquires iXblue to bring ECA Group and iXblue together
Groupe Gorgé announced a major milestone with the acquisition of iXblue. This operation, that will bring ECA Group and iXblue together, will lead to the rise of a European high-tech industrial champion in the fields of robotics, maritime, navigation, aerospace and photonics. The two companies will benefit from a global workforce of 1,500 people and will achieve an annual turnover of €250 million. Together, iXblue and ECA Group will provide customers with a unique offer ranging from components to complex systems to support critical missions in severe environments.
"In addition to our complementary activities, both our companies share a common DNA centered around innovation and entrepreneurship. This acquisition by Groupe Gorgé, that puts iXblue and ECA Group under the same roof, will enable us to create new synergies and strengthen our capacity to invest in research and development to offer solutions that are always at the cutting edge of technology," rejoices Fabien Napolitano, President & CEO of iXblue.
Dominique Giannoni, CEO of ECA Group, adds: "With the combination of the technological expertise and global footprint of the two companies, we will provide unmatched value to our customers through our comprehensive portfolio of products and solutions. This operation consolidates our leadership in our markets and offers excellent growth prospects. The teams of our two companies have already started working closely together. We see great development opportunities that we are eager to share with our customers.”
SUT announces winner of Gwyn Griffiths Award 2022
The Society for Underwater Technology’s (SUT’s) Gwyn Griffiths Award for Underwater Robotics has been won by Rustom (Rusty) Jehangir, founder and CEO of Blue Robotics, an ocean technology company based in Torrance, California.
“The standard of entries for the SUT’s Gwyn Griffiths Award for Underwater Robotics was extremely competitive this year, and the nominees of high calibre, which challenged the judges to select this year’s winner,” said Neil Bose, Chair of SUT’s Underwater Robotics Panel, and Vice President (Research), Memorial University, Newfoundland and Labrador’s University. “On behalf of the Panel, the judges and SUT, we would like to recognise the talent, innovation, and qualities of all the entrants working in underwater robotics.”
On hearing the news of the Award, a delighted Rustom said: “Wow! I’m honoured and humbled to receive this award bearing Gwyn Griffiths’ name, given all that he accomplished and contributed to the field of marine robotics. I consider this Award to be an honour for my whole team.”
The submission nominating Rustom Jehangir for the Award stated:
“Under Rusty’s vision and leadership, Blue Robotics has dramatically reduced the cost of ocean robotics, reshaped market expectations of ocean engineering components, enabled hundreds of new research efforts using turn-key affordable platforms, and empowered thousands of new learners to gain practical experience with ocean technology.
“Blue Robotics is the exemplar of the current market trend that sees the cost of ocean robotics decreasing while the capabilities are increasing. This is double leverage and driving significant growth in the New Blue Economy.”
Looking to the future Rustom explained: “We’re eight years into our journey and I’m having more fun than ever! I truly believe in our core mission of making affordable, capable components and systems to enable people to do more with marine robotics and we’re going to keep doing that. We’ve learned a lot and we can keep doing it better and better. The ocean is a big place and there’s a lot of room to grow and a lot of opportunities.”
More information on what inspired his interest in subsea engineering, how he became involved in robotics, advice he would give to someone interested in a career in this field and his advice on innovation and starting your own company is in the current issue of the Big Blue World, the global newsletter of the SUT. Information on Blue Robotics can be found here.
MacArtney appoints Global Business Manager to drive the company’s global strategy
As part of the strategy to strengthen and develop its core business within connectivity, MacArtney has appointed Paul Anthony as the new Global Business Manager, Connectivity, with effect from 1 October 2022.
This appointment is a step in MacArtney’s global strategy for its connectivity business to build on the company’s status as one of the major industry players and to support its growing global market share.
“MacArtney wants to build on our global position, reach and collaboration, working with clients and industry specifiers, through harmonising and developing our connectivity product portfolio,” Paul Anthony comments.
Connectivity solutions
Paul joined MacArtney in December 2021 as Senior Sales Manager, Connectivity. He is a qualified engineer with 30 years of experience working in industrial markets, including oil and gas and elastomers.
Such a background means he can discuss the technical aspects of connectors and ancillary applications on the same level as the customer and in considerable depth, along with a deep understanding of the market.
“Our goal is to provide quality, cost-effective and reliable connectivity solutions through the SubConn® and TrustLink brands. Furthermore, using our historical partnerships, we have the ability to design and deliver custom cable assemblies and complete connectivity systems for our customers,” Paul continues.
Global reach - local support
MacArtney’s 21 locations worldwide provide reach, coverage and local support for its customers.
The company is recognised as being agile, flexible, trusted and friendly with a high level of stock, short lead times and a global presence close to the customer.
“Our business evolves based on customers’ needs, and appointing a Global Business Manager is a logical move,” says Rasmus F. Bonde, MacArtney CCO, and concludes:
“Paul’s long experience in connectivity made him a natural choice when he joined us in December 2021. He shares MacArtney’s own global mindset and values in terms of openness, trust and approachability.
He is the perfect fit for taking on the role of executing our global connectivity strategy.”
Job Advert: A-2-Sea Solutions hiring three new positions
A-2-Sea solutions has been providing services to the global subsea community for over 25 years. They are looking to further expand their Hydrographic survey department. A-2-Sea is involved in a range of hydrographic, geophysical and UXO surveys services, serving clients from various industries including offshore renewables, nautical charting, marine aggregates and subsea cables.
Why join A-2-Sea?
- Offshore opportunities within the UK and Overseas.
- Dynamic roles that allow candidates to gain well rounded skillset from tendering, planning, acquisition and reporting / deliverables.
- Receive a competitive salary with excellent benefits.
Hydrographic Surveyor
The position offers a mixture of offshore rotations and periods of time at A-2-Sea’s office in Romsey. The key roles of the position include:
- Project planning and support.
- Mobilisation and calibration of survey equipment.
- Acquisition of hydrographic and geophysical data.
- Data processing and production of deliverables.
- Report writing and interpretation of results.
- R&D of new technologies such as UAVs and ASVs.
Hydrographic Data Processor (various levels of experience)
The position offers a variety of office-based responsibilities that would require the successful candidate to be primarily based at A-2-Sea’s office in Romsey. The key roles include:
- Project planning and support.
- Processing and QC of hydrographic data including multibeam bathymetry and positioning data.
- Report writing and interpretation of results.
- Final deliverable creation and QC.
- R&D of new technologies.
Geophysicist
The position offers a mixture of offshore rotations and periods of time A-2-Sea’s office in Romsey. The key roles include:
- Leading with the mobilisation of geophysical survey equipment, including Side Scan Sonar.
- 2-3 years of experience in geophysical surveys.
- Project planning and support.
- Geophysical data acquisition and QC.
- Geophysical data processing, interpretation, QC and production of deliverables.
- Report writing and interpretation of results.
- Input into A-2-Sea's geophysical processes and procedures.
- R&D of new technologies.
Find out more at: https://www.a2sea.co.uk/careers
New energy system prepares Seven Arctic for the future
Subsea7 is pleased to announce that the heavy construction / flex-lay vessel Seven Arctic is to be equipped with a new energy-saving system.
The new energy-saving and storage system will hybridise the vessel which currently has a total installed power of 27 MW and DP3 classification and is suitable for worldwide operations in water depths up to 3,000 metres.
At the heart of the new energy storage system is a containerised battery room with a maximum power of 3750 kW and 1250 kWh of energy. The system also includes a connection for shore power.
Based on the vessel’s operating profile, it’s estimated that a reduction of 5,000 tons of CO2 emissions is expected.
The contract for supplying and fitting the Energy Storage System has been awarded to Bakker Sliedrecht, an electrical integrator specialist in Dynamic Positioning (DP) vessels.
Stuart Smith, Vice President Asset Development at Subsea7 said: “We are very pleased to continue our relationship with Bakker on this contract which will hybridise Seven Arctic. This represents an important milestone in our sustainability programme to reduce our C02 emissions.”
Bas Oskam, Director Sales at Bakker Sliedrecht added: “The Energy Storage System can work with any battery or storage type. The control system is designed with maximum autonomy in mind, allowing for integration with different existing power and vessel management systems on board. This makes the system very suitable to apply in existing vessels.”
OceanTools take environmental responsibility seriously
OceanTools Limited in Bridge of Don is working hard to provide a green workplace.
Kevin Parker MD of OceanTools says “As a business owner and a parent, it’s important to me that we all do our bit to leave the planet in the best possible state for future generations. Environmental responsibility is becoming increasingly important to our team members, I’m proud to provide an environment where employees can make a difference”
The recently installed EV charging point encourages employees to travel sustainably and to recharge their electric vehicles while at work. OceanTools also provides shower facilities for staff who wish to cycle to work.
Day to day operations at OceanTools have also been reviewed to ensure sustainable and environment friendly processes where possible including sustainable purchasing and re-use and recycling wherever practicable. The product development team have come up with eco-friendly fluorescent dyes for use with the OceanTools DyeTector systems which have less environmental impact than traditional leak detection chemicals.
OceanTools is a world leading subsea engineering company specialising in the design and manufacture of equipment for the professional offshore and underwater markets based in Bridge of Don, Aberdeen.
Find more information here.
