Solution
Centre
Offshore inspection, cleaning and repair solutions transformed with innovative new approach
In a collaboration between TRAC Oil & Gas and ToolTec, this project developed a cleaning and inspection tool (Trac-Tec Tool) that can be remotely deployed from the platform, to clean and inspect various sizes and configurations of caissons and conductors in the area immediately above and below sea level, or 'splash zone'.
Typically, inspections are carried out by divers from a diving support vessels (DSVs) or remotely operated vehicles (ROVs) deployed from the platform or a vessel. This can be challenging due to the sea state and proximity to the jacket structure, not to mention the use of support vessels being expensive. This new technology delivers a solution that removes the need for divers, ROVs and DSVs. Phase one that focussed on the development of the tool, with the second phase proving the concept via field trial.
Industry Value
The technology has the potential to reduce inspection costs by 50%, while improving safety, quality and efficiency.
Typical annual workscopes for an individual platforms splash zone inspection range from £300,000 to £3 million, based on various riser, structural and pipeline schedules, and using ROVs/divers. By using the TracTec Tool, the cost to carry out similar workscopes are in the region of £15,000 - £150,000, providing a 95% cost saving.
Technology Organisation
TRAC Oil & Gas
TRAC Oil & Gas Ltd is a leading global provider of Rope Access Inspection, Repair & Maintenance services for the Oil & Gas and related industries.
ProjectTRAC-Tec Tool
Challenge
Asset Integrity
Vision
Fix Today
Entry TRL
4
Field Trial
Completed
Technology
Trac-Tec Tool
Type
Develop
Achieved TRL
8
Technology Organisation
TRAC Oil & Gas
TRAC Oil & Gas Ltd is a leading global provider of Rope Access Inspection, Repair & Maintenance services for the Oil & Gas and related industries.
Key Results
The tool was trialled on four caissons in the North Sea to test and prove functionality.The project has also been shortlisted in the Innovation category of the 2019 Press & Journal Energy Voice Gold Awards.
Speaking of the shortlisting, Business Delivery Manager Jan Stander said: "Working with ToolTec on this specific project, supported by OGTC, has enabled us to pool our respective expertise and has led to a solution which has enormous safety and cost benefits for the oil and gas industry as a whole."