Allseas will replace entire fleet of ROVs with electric-hybrids

Offshore engineering firm Allseas is buying an entire new fleet of electric-hybrid remotely operated vehicles (ROVs) from TechnipFMC Schilling Robotics division.

They will gradually replace the entire fleet of Allseas’ current ROVs, also from TechnipFMC Schilling Robotics division.

The hybrid electric Heavy Duty (eHD) ROVs will be deployed across subsea construction, inspection and intervention work.

The systems combine electric propulsion with hydraulic capability and are designed to retain compatibility with existing tooling. Allseas said the ROVs will provide work-class performance at water depths of up to 6,000 metres.

The new vehicles incorporate enhanced manoeuvrability, advanced navigation and automated support functions. According to Allseas, the combination is intended to improve precision during subsea operations and reduce offshore execution time.

The ROVs also offer increased tooling capacity, allowing a broader range of inspection, construction and intervention activities to be carried out using the same vehicle platform.

Pilots will be able to support offshore campaigns from another vessel equipped with an eHD system or from an onshore operations centre. This could allow specialist personnel to be deployed across projects without being physically present on the vessel operating the ROV.

Allseas said the systems’ monitoring and condition-based maintenance capabilities will support maintenance planning and help limit equipment downtime. The electric propulsion system is also intended to improve energy efficiency and reduce reliance on hydraulic components.

The fleet upgrade comes as offshore projects extend into deeper waters and more remote operating environments. Allseas said the new ROVs will support its established activities in pipelay, subsea construction and heavy lift, while also providing capability for potential work in sectors including offshore renewables and deep-sea mineral collection.

The company has not disclosed the value of the acquisition or the delivery schedule for the new vehicles.