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A new version of the Seascout cone penetration tester is under construction following successful deployment of two previous versions. The latest version will feature a larger penetration depth and an improved conus with thermal resistivity testing instrumentation. It can also be operated from an ROV without the need for additional umbilicals or hydraulics.
Seascout, produced by Fugro Engineers, Leidschendam, is a lightweight cone penetration test system for determining subsurface soil conditions to a depth of approximately six metres. The newest version will be able to reach a depth of 10 metres. Instrumentation onboard the system measures vertical penetration, cone resistance and, optionally, sleeve friction and pore water pressure.
Soil resistance is measured by a coiled rod which is mechanically straightened and pushed into the ground. A cone on top of the rod contains the measuring instruments. The cone base area is only 10 sq mm compared with 1,000 sq mm for conventional cone penetrometers. This has led to a substantial reduction of the thrust and reaction equipment requirements.
Mass of the new Seascout and its unballasted frame is only 1 ton. Frame height is 2.4 metres. The device requires a deck space of only 2.5 x 2.5 metres plus a sheltered area for the operator. This means it can be deployed from smaller and thus less expensive vessels than the conventional versions.
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