DeepOcean is working to deliver a conceptual study for INTECSEA Canada (INTECSEA), with the support of SMD, as part of a programme to develop a trenching system for subsea pipelines, flowlines and umbilicals in ice scour environments

DeepOcean is working to deliver a conceptual study for INTECSEA Canada (INTECSEA), with the support of SMD, as part of a programme to develop a trenching system for subsea pipelines, flowlines and umbilicals in ice scour environments.

INTECSEA, on behalf of Petroleum Research Newfoundland & Labrador (PRNL), is managing a multi-phased Joint Industry Project (JIP) to investigate and develop a proven, commercially-ready, pipeline trenching system for the burial of pipelines, flowlines and umbilicals in various soil and Arctic conditions to protect against the effects of ice scouring of the seafloor.

DeepOcean will undertake a four month study for Phase I of the four-phase JIP, to define its proposed technology solution for Arctic trenching and establish how it will fulfil specified functional requirements. The trenching system must meet a number of stringent criteria including use in harsh marine conditions, operation in water depths beyond the majority of current trenching requirements, trenching in difficult and highly variable soil conditions, and to trench depths greater than current industry norms. DeepOcean has established a project team in the area and will perform this work in collaboration with Canadian partners in St. John’s Newfoundland.

With a number of industry-leading marine trenching systems within its fleet, combined with 20 years of practical experience, DeepOcean believes the knowledge and experience within the company will be extremely beneficial towards the development of an Arctic trenching system. DeepOcean will also work closely with the world's leading manufacturer of remote intervention equipment, SMD, who are responsible for the manufacture of the majority of DeepOcean’s subsea trenching systems, including its ploughs, tractors and Remotely Operated Vehicles (ROVs).

Pierre Boyde, Commercial Director at DeepOcean UK says of this conceptual study, “DeepOcean is pleased to be taking part in the first phase of this JIP, and hopeful that its in-house expertise and significant track record will help the company become a continued partner throughout this R&D programme.”