Forum Wraps Up eROV Trials

Forum Subsea Technologies’ latest remotely operated vehicle (ROV), the XLe Spirit, has completed sea trials in Norway.

The vehicle is the first of a new generation of electric observation class ROVs.

It is the smallest in the new range, and powerful enough to perform subsea maintenance and repair work.

It is suited to the aquaculture market and capable of tasks such as net and tank inspection.

Working with its Norwegian partner Innova, Forum tested the XLe Spirit at a fjord with a 500 meters water depth. The standard equipment function testing was confirmed utilising all ancillary equipment, including cameras, lights, altimeters and sonars.

The trials follow a twelve-week assessment, which took place at Forum’s test tank in Kirbymoorside, Yorkshire, UK.

The vehicle is the first observation class ROV to utilise Forum’s Integrated Control Engine (ICE) to bring greater functionality commonly only found in larger work-class vehicles.

Kevin Taylor, vice president of Forum Subsea Technologies, said: “The XLe Spirit’s successful sea trials mark a significant milestone as we continue to bring the latest technology to the industry. The vehicle’s capabilities make it ideally suited to a wide range of operations in the oil and gas and aquaculture markets.

“Our long history in the subsea sector enables us to understand the demands of our clients. Following the comprehensive sea trials, we are already garnering interest in the XLe Spirit and we look forward to delivering these vehicles to the market.”