A new concept in skid design from Saab Seaeye adds a powerful tooling capability to their technologically advanced Cougar XTi ROV. It means that for Christmas tree installation and other work tasks a small electric ROV can be deployed in the support role rather than a large hydraulic work class vehicle. The innovation behind the work skids concept is an electro-hydraulic modular power package that allows a ‘mix and match’ combination of powerful tooling to be used.
Skids fitted with an ensemble of work-scope tooling such as a class 1-4 torque tool, 350bar sea water hot stab, manipulators, and high-pressure water jet and rotary brush for complimentary cleaning work, now make it possible for a small ROV to undertake the tasks normally performed by an hydraulic work-class vehicle – but at a much lower cost.
And the recently launched Cougar XTi ROV has the pioneering architecture to absorb the work skid’s advanced technology ready for a range of demanding roles. This is clearly illustrated in the support of Christmas tree installation and commissioning, where significant savings in vehicle utilisation can clearly be found.
Fitted with its new skid system, the Cougar XTi can readily fulfil the scope of work typically undertaken by the hydraulic work class vehicle that usually supports the primary work class ROV and commissioning module combination, during the Christmas tree installation.
After giving observation support to the interconnection procedure, the Cougar can undertake the other tasks of the support work class vehicle in the commissioning process, such as cleaning, operating valves and hot-stab work.
For more information please visit www.seaeye.com.