David Paganie
Managing Editor
PERTH, Australia -- Total is finalizing a business case for a new subsea intervention method, said Eric Rambaldi, Total, during a presentation on the first day of DOT International Asia/Pacific in Perth, Australia.
The proposed concept, called "swimmer" is a hybrid AUV/ROV. The AUV will carry an ROV, which will be deployed up to 1,500 m from a docking station on the seabed near subsea wellheads.
The method is being designed for subsea inspection and light intervention in remote and harsh environments, without a multi-service vessel. The equipment will stay subsea for up to three months, and will be controlled from the surface.
This subsea intervention method is being considered for Total's Block 17 projects offshore Angola, Rambaldi said.
The technology is expected to be sanctioned in 2009.
12/03/2008
