Subsea 3D Modelling & Mooring Chain Baseline Inspection
Challenge
To support the future expansion of subsea infrastructure, a major offshore energy operator required a 3D modelling solution capable of accurately calculating bend radii for multiple new jumper installations across existing subsea assets. The requirement was driven by natural sediment infill that had occurred following the original installation, creating uncertainty around clearances and routing.
In addition, the client undertook an FPSO mooring chain replacement campaign the previous year and required a comprehensive baseline inspection of the newly installed mooring lines. The inspection would enable future wear and corrosion assessments to be accurately benchmarked over the asset lifecycle.
Solution
Having significant experience in subsea inspection, Ashtead Technology proposed an integrated inspection package to the client. This combined the seabed infrastructure 3D modelling scope and mooring inspection scope into one solution that delivered real-time high accuracy data offshore, significantly reducing ROV and vessel operational time and cost for the client.
Supported by an experienced offshore project team, in collaboration with the client offshore team, Ashtead Technology mobilised the Voyis Discovery Inspection I300 camera to complete the 3D modelling of existing subsea infrastructure. This captured high-resolution images of hubs, manifolds, flowlines and the surrounding seabed while enabling live 3D reconstruction using Voyis VSLAM software. The real-time visualisation ensured complete coverage and data quality offshore reducing risk and potential rework cost.
The inspection of the mooring lines was completed using Ashtead Technology’s proprietary Chain Measurement System (CMS). The optical CMS, a field proven solution designed and engineered by Ashtead Technology, delivered accurate, real-time measurements of chain wear and deformation. The mooring chain measurements captured during the campaign included link length, intergrip and sidebar diameter allowing the client to establish a robust baseline for future wear and corrosion monitoring.
Data processing and reporting, including chain measurement verification and detailed 3D model analysis, was completed onshore by Ashtead Technology’s specialist data processing team.
Results and impact
- The campaign successfully captured high-resolution 3D models of subsea infrastructure and surrounding seabed areas, enabling precise calculations, supporting the installation of new components and informing potential re-routing of existing flowlines.
- Our combined expertise and integrated capabilities enabled us to provide in-house designed, engineered and manufactured solutions, reducing project risk and ensuring all systems worked efficiently.
- Completing the workscope as an integrated package provided the client with time and cost efficiencies and the confidence and actionable data to support their long-term asset integrity management.
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