Ian Warrander
The significance of ROV tooling lies in its ability to facilitate complex subsea operations where human presence is unfeasible. One could argue that ROV tooling is the unsung workhorse behind deep-sea operations: the cutters, torque tools, jetting systems and interfaces that allow an ROV to interact physically with structures, pipelines, valves and more. These tools are mission-critical, and at Ashtead Technology, our focus is on building ROV tools that not only survive but thrive in challenging conditions. Leveraging operational insight, technical vision and 18 years of in-house experience, Ian Warrander, ROV Tooling Technical Manager, leads the proprietary Ashtead Technology ROV tooling programme.
Every Ashtead Technology tool originates from the belief that quality and innovation are inseparable. From the first sketch through design review, prototyping, testing and final fabrication in the workshop, the entire journey is governed by exacting standards. Ian is the link between offshore field demands and the Ashtead Technology engineering team, turning customer challenges into solutions. “Our OEM ROV tooling offers strategic advantages, including internal control over design and quality and expedited lead times,” says Ian. “We deliver bespoke solutions when off-the-shelf tools fall short of meeting unique project requirements and by designing, testing and manufacturing in-house, we uphold consistent quality assurance and can provide a rapid response to customer needs.” Ashtead Technology’s ROV tooling fleet, available for rent or purchase, includes tools such as high-flow jetting systems, dredges in various sizes, subsea cleaning tools, grinders, docking beams and valve manipulation equipment. “We also have designs in place to manufacture an external gasket replacement tool and a linear actuator override tool”, adds Ian.
Ashtead Technology maintains a highly experienced ROV tooling engineering team that focuses on product development and refinement, R&D and bespoke designs, tailored to meet specific project demands. “Having extensive experience in the subsea environment, we understand that our ROV tooling must be designed to withstand the extreme pressures of deepwater operations”, explains Ian. “Design optimisation balances strength and weight, ensuring ROV tools are both strong enough for their tasks and manageable to operate, all while keeping in line with industry standards.”
A recent example of this approach was the development of a modular ROV skid system. When a customer required a solution to avoid repeatedly retrieving a vehicle to swap pumps, Ian’s team responded with a detailed product design. The result was a tool that exceeded customer expectations, receiving praise from the ROV operators for reducing operational complexity, cost and time.
Ian often reflects on what truly sets Ashtead Technology apart. “The strength of our ROV tooling capability lies not only in process but in people. We respond decisively when customers face equipment issues, or when bespoke solutions are needed on tight timelines. Whether for rent or purchase, standard or bespoke, every tool carries the mark of high craftsmanship to meet the expectations of our customers.”
He describes his role as dynamic and customer-driven. Yet it’s precisely this environment that motivates Ian to create solutions that solve real challenges for customers, day in, day out. “We embrace a collaborative approach and are always ready to tackle new challenges, delivering reliable, innovative ROV tooling globally, backed by excellent service and quality so our customers can operate efficiently and confidently.”