SMD Secures ROV Order in China

Soil Machine Dynamics (SMD) have signed a contract to supply an Atom Mk1 1000m 100hp work-class ROV system to China Southern Power Extra High Voltage Power Transmission Company (EHV, CSG), a subsidiary of state-owned China Southern Power Grid (CSG).

The ROV will be used for inspection of the 31-kilometer physical power cable connections in the Qiongzhou Strait between Hainan Island and China mainland.

The Atom system is SMD’s lightest work-class ROV suitable for offshore power applications, survey and light construction duties. For this order, SMD will integrate a TSS350 cable tracking system and other survey tools to perform cable inspection.

Mark Collins business development director, said: “Atom has a proven track record in operating in challenging operational environments, varying from shallow waters and high currents to scorching temperatures, all of which can cause significant problems for standard work class ROVs. For this order, Atom will showcase its ability to operate in high currents and will call upon its market leading dynamic positioning system to ensure survey data is of the highest quality.”

Scheduled for delivery in Q4 2018, the ROV will come equipped with SMD’s range of Curvetech components, DVECSII control system and 20ft control cabin which will be mobilized on board CSG’s new vessel. SMD Services will deliver training courses to ensure CSG’s operational team are equipped with the necessary operating skills.

SMD Services will utilise CRRC SMD Shanghai’s facilities to support mobilization of the ROV on board CSG’s new dedicated cable installation vessel and will also take lead on the sea trials ensuring the ROV operates as intended. SMD Services offshore team will also be on hand to provide assistance for any on deck ROV support.