French vessel operator Bourbon has commissioned three new next-generation heavy duty work ROVs (remote operated vehicles) designed by FMC Technologies Schilling Robotics.
Capable of operating at depths of up to 3000m, the units will be deployed on multi-purpose support vessels (MPSV), such as the Bourbon Evolution 800 series.
Fitted with high-tech equipment - manipulator arms, dynamic positioning, high definition camera, sonar and software - the units can carry up to 3000 Kg of special measurement or intervention tools and can be used for survey, wellhead installation, or asset tie-in.
They're also able to help perform tasks, including monitoring of operations through video coverage, inspecting structures to check on corrosion, installing subsea equipment, assembling production systems, or taking measurements and collecting survey data.
Most of Bourbon's ROVs are deployed in Mediterranean waters, in West Africa, and soon in the Far East. Three ROVs are operating in Italian waters for Eni on survey and inspection missions; and five in West Africa (Nigeria, Angola, etc.) under contract with Total and Saipem for survey, Inspection, Maintenance, Reparation and construction missions.
Since 2009, Bourbon is expanding its fleet of HD Work ROVs, working closely with FMC Technologies Schilling Robotics. Three other next-generation ROVs will be further added to the fleet of ROVs by the end of 2015, which will then amount to 18 units, including 11 Work-class ROVs.
"We are very excited that Bourbon continues to experience the superior reliability of our ROV technology, and continues to expand their fleet with us," says Tyler Schilling, President of FMC Technologies Schilling Robotics.