Greg Blockley

In offshore decommissioning, relying on off-the-shelf cutting and recovery solutions can often fall short. But for one engineering team, the mantra is clear: one size tool does not fit all.

As underwater cutting specialists, Ashtead Technology has built a reputation in understanding each client’s unique challenges, then crafting the right tool or solution to tackle them. Behind every cutting and recovery solution is our expert engineering team, led by Greg Blockley. From Design Engineer to Engineering Manager and most recently to Project Delivery Manager, Greg draws on his hands-on design and engineering experience to deliver client-centric results.

“When a client calls and says, I need to cut or recover a subsea structure, we don’t respond with a catalogue. We build a picture of what it is they need to achieve, what is the challenge and what is the best solution for the job”, says Greg. “It might be a diamond wire saw or maybe a chop saw or shear that is required, but our message is clear: we don’t push what we’ve got, we figure out what they need. We consider every aspect of the project from the environmental conditions to material, size and integrity, developing the most effective solution for the job.”

The engineering team at Ashtead Technology bring together client projects, working hand-in-hand with the workshop floor. Together, we build, test and mobilise bespoke equipment packages for offshore execution, fostering long term client trust through collaboration, problem solving and shared success. “Before the first cut is ever made, our engineers are involved in FEED studies to ensure we understand all project deliverables,” explains Greg. “And we are there through the whole process from tendering to offshore delivery. We also adhere to DNV GL standards through our process, so the tool you receive isn’t just built, it’s qualified and cleared for the task at hand.”

“A standout project for me was the development of the Mattress Recovery Tool (MRT),” shares Greg. “Our team built this solution from an initial idea, visiting clients, collecting feedback, identifying pain points and turned it into a high-performing subsea system that recovers pre-deployed subsea concrete mattresses from the seabed. Another highlight is our compact ring saw which is driven from the periphery, meaning you can use the entire blade during the cut. It’s very different to what is currently available on the market. These tools really do underscore our engineering capability and embody our ability to translate project needs into engineered solutions.”

As decommissioning continues to be a major focus for offshore operators, having partners who can pivot, evolve and deliver is more valuable than ever. With more than 30,000 successful cuts across global projects, our track record speaks of both expertise and successful project delivery. “Ashtead Technology boasts one of the largest fleets of decommissioning tools and systems in the market for cutting, recovery and seabed clearance,” states Greg. “And as decommissioning grows, our blend of agility and engineering will matter more than ever.”

Find out more about Ashtead Technology’s cutting capabilities.