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- AC-ROV in Offshore World First
- AC-ROV Sales News
- AC-ROV 3000: Fly Out ROV
- AC-ROV Distributor Sales
- AC-CESS Signs 3 New Distributors
- AC-ROV Options Launch at Ocean Business 2009
- ROVworld Lda Ships AC-ROV System to India
- AC-ROV Thruster Upgrade
- AC-ROV Multiple Sales News
- USA AC-ROV Distributor
- New AC-ROV Distributors
- TAF Buys AC-ROV
- ROVWorld Represents AC-ROV
- AC-ROV to Saudi Arabia
- FMC Buys AC-ROV
- AC-ROV Makes Strides in RVI Sector
- AC-ROV Hits Gulf of Mexico
- Vis-Tech Inspection Buy AC-ROV
- Creators of World's Smallest and Most Successful Micro ROV
- ROV Downunder Sells Three AC-ROV's
- Prona Canarias Sign With AC-CESS
- Seabed BV New AC-ROV Distributor
- Prodive Purchase AC-ROV
- HydroServ Buy AC-ROV
- Stats Purchase AC-ROV
- Andrew Moore Associates Buy AC-ROV
- AC-CESS Appoints 3 Distributors
- AC-CESS Sign 4 More International Distributors
- Caledonian MacBrayne Buy AC-ROV
- AC-ROV Enjoy's A Lively Oceanology International 2006
- AC-CESS AC-ROV Delivered To Korean Atomic Energy Research Institute
- National Marine Aquarium Buys Two AC-ROV’S
AC-ROV in Offshore World First
08/10
Approved AC-ROV operator Allied Marine Logistics (London, England) recently carried out the world’s first internal inspection of a crude oil offloading marine hose system offshore West Africa. The one man operated AC-ROV was deployed and recovered from the rescue zone of an Anchor Handling Tug Supply vessel in 1m seas with a 1kt current.
Allied Managing Director, Mr Andrew Lang, explained “The AC-ROV is the only ROV capable of completing this inspection. It is small and agile enough to fly into a 12-24in flexible bonded rubber hose string. The systems cube shape and vectored thruster design gives it the ideal profile for this kind of ingress work. The alternative to in-situ hose bore inspection is to decommission the hose system periodically which is far more costly, reduces the availability of the terminal and runs the risk of damaging the hoses due to the additional handling.”
An external inspection of the hoses was also performed checking for loose bolts, third party impact damage, abrasion, kinking, leak detection devices and other early signs of deterioration. The internal and external inspections were completed within 2 working days with no down time.
Meanwhile in the North Sea, Ocean Frontier Services Ltd (OFS) have successful completed the inspection of J-tubes for a wind-farm operator using an AC-ROV hired from Allied Marine Logistics. The internals of the J-tubes were visually inspected with checks being made for evidence of sediment flooding. OFS Managing Director, Bernd Ocic, says “The smaller AC-ROV was able to enter inside the J-tubes with an internal diameter of 350 mm which is something our larger vehicles were unable to do. The AC-ROV may be small but its robustness and mobility takes it into unexpected places”.
www.ac-cess.com www.almarlog.com www.ofsltd.com
04/10
Leading micro ROV manufacturer AC-CESS Co UK Ltd (Aberdeen, Scotland) has reported a number of late 2009 early 2010 successes with its AC-ROV Underwater Inspection System including the following:
Dong Energy / Inspectahire
Oil and gas producer Dong Energy have purchased and deployed two AC-ROV systems on their North Sea based Siri platform. The mission involved ingressing a seafloor chamber attached to the platform’s oil storage tank to inspect dangerous cracks that resulted in the rig being taken offline. Operated by Inspectahire (Aberdeen, Scotland) a 120 meter tethered AC-ROV system was launched from the hydraulic manipulators of a Fugro Rovtech workclass ROV through purpose cut holes in the wall of the damaged chamber. At 80 to 100 meters water depth the workclass ROV fed the AC-ROV’s tether through the hole as it flew into the chamber. Deployed in this manor for three 10 hour sessions the role of the AC-ROV was to map the very congested internal structure of the chamber so larger ROVs could go in safely and continue the critical inspection work. Inspectahire representatives explained that the “The Siri was one of the toughest ROV challenges ever faced and the AC-ROV did its job”.
British Geological Survey:
Founded in 1835, the British Geological Survey (BGS) is the world's oldest national geological survey and lead European operator in the Integrated Ocean Drilling Program (IODP). The IODP international marine research program explores the Earth's history and structure recorded in seafloor sediments and rocks, and monitors sub-seafloor environments. BGS purchased a 120m tether AC-ROV with slip ring, 2 function manipulator and custom reel. The system has been successfully deployed on the IODP New Jersey Shallow Shelf Expedition, 40 miles offshore Delaware. The AC-ROV completed multiple dives to inspect seabed debris and pipes deployed during the research drilling program. BGS operators noted the AC-ROVs robustness, mobility, ease of use and ease of service.
Cameron
Leading manufacturer and supplier of subsea production systems Cameron Subsea Systems have purchased a 40m tethered AC-ROV system for use at their Leeds site. Historically, rented ROV equipment had been deployed to monitor subsea equipment during pressure testing. Cameron went ahead with the purchase after witnessing the AC-ROV’s market leading mobility, picture quality, easy of control and ability to ingress all but the smallest spaces in the fabric of the targets. Realising how much cost and time savings could be made compared to the rented ROV option, the system has been successfully deployed multiple times to inspect subsea trees and valves.
Terebro Ltd
Serving the utilities, civil engineering, construction and land management markets, specialist plant hire company Terebro Ltd. have purchased a 100m tethered AC-ROV with slip ring and rear view camera. Purchased to extend Terebro’s underwater inspection capability, Mr Ian McArthur, Commercial Manager of Terebro explained: “The compact and robust design of the AC-ROV make it ideal for inland industrial use, it’s the safest and cheapest method of remote visual inspection”. The vehicle has being successfully deployed for culvert inspection with British Waterways, with Terebro now an approved AC-ROV operator for the UK.
Marine Scotland Science
With its mission to manage Scotland's sea and freshwater resources, lead marine management organisation Marine Scotland Science required an ROV for freshwater operations. The one case AC-ROV system was instantly the front runner during the selection process due to the remote locations involved with the application. When coupled with the vehicles robustness and object avoidance capability for fast flowing river applications the AC-ROV was far the best option. The 100m tethered AC-ROV with slip ring and rear view camera will be deployed in freshwater locations for pollution and marine life monitoring across Scotland.
03/10
3000m Fly-Out ROV revealed to the market at Oceanology International 2010 (Excel, London) by AC-CESS Co UK Limited of Aberdeen, Scotland.
Working in conjunction with their engineering partners ALL OCEANS, the AC-ROV 3000 offers visual inspection support for host vehicle operations in busy, congested and high risk operating environments. The support this provides can be categorised into two vital roles:
As a BUDDY the AC-ROV 3000 can keep a watching eye on the host vehicle. Duties include checking the tether, giving added perspective on any tool deployments and generally providing an overview of operations. This adds up to reducing risk, limiting host vehicle movement and increased productivity.
As a SCOUT it can be advanced into areas where the host vehicle can not go, or the risks for it are too great, IE: pipe work, wreck inspection, thermal vents etc. Insurance cover for high risk operations can be difficult to obtain or prohibitively expensive. This is where a less expensive asset comes into its own, which was one of the design drivers for the AC-ROV 3000. The vehicle is small, simple and robust thereby minimising the value and maximising the durability of the part exposed to the greatest risk.
Inline with the AC-CESS ethos of mobility and robustness, the AC-ROV 3000 retains the clean, snag free shape and orbital mobility of the original AC-ROV underwater inspection system. The vehicle is garaged on the host ROV and is deployed and recovered by an electric Tether Management System (TMS), another All Oceans specialisation.
AC-CESS business development manager, Mr Callum Magee proudly explained that the AC-ROV 3000 fly-out is a further milestone in AC-CESS’s history:
“The AC-ROV 3000 is testament to the original AC-ROV design and is a clear statement of intent. It further demonstrates the forward thinking and industry commitment of both AC-CESS and ALL OCEANS which keeps us where we want to be – at the front”.
09/09
AC-CESS Co UK Ltd (Aberdeen, Scotland), manufacturer of the AC-ROV Underwater Inspection System has worked aggressively to establish a global presence in a competitive marketplace. The following sales represent some of the resent successes achieved by our distribution network.
All-Star Technology Corporation of Taiwan
Representing the first AC-ROV sold in Taiwan, AC-ROV distributor All-Star Technology Corporation is proud to announce the sale of a 100m tether system to an undisclosed client.
ATSA of Australia
ATSA have sold a 120m tethered AC-ROV system with thickness gauge to Subsea Access of Tasmania. Servicing client underwater asset management requirements, Subsea Access use both ROV and diving operations for underwater visual inspection and maintenance. The AC-ROV will be deployed in a variety of roles including the visual and acoustic inspection of bridges, hulls, propellers, outfalls and intakes and environmental and aquaculture surveys.
Sanrig Pty Ltd of Wollongong, Sydney has taken delivery of a 52m mixed tether AC-ROV for reservoir and tank inspections. Mr James Walker, managing director of Sanrig was suitably impressed by the portable and robust nature of the AC-ROV: “We regularly carryout inspection work in hard to reach locations, so having a tough one case system like the AC-ROV is a great benefit, it’s a real get it in and get on with it kind of tool.”
ROVworld Lda of Portugal
ROVworld has announced the sale of a 100m tethered AC-ROV system with slip ring to Dunnimaa Engineers & Diver Enterprises Pvt Ltd of Mumbai, India. Mr A S Rathore, Manager of Dunnimaa inquiry indicated they were looking for a compact system, with single operator setup and operation and ease of transportation by road or helicopter. Mr. Rathore felt that the one case AC-ROV suited their needs by offering both value for money and high portability. The AC-ROV is being used by Dunnimaa in the Mumbai High region, West Coast India for rapid response oil & gas support tasks requiring underwater observation and video recording.
ROVworld Lda has also advised they have recently delivered an AC-ROV to Masterconnect Lda of Portugal. The ROV system is used for bridge support surveys and other inshore operations. Previously Masterconnect used divers for these types of operations however, owner and manager of Masterconnect Mr Rui Duart advised that the AC-ROV system now gives his company greater flexibility for underwater inspection requirements around Portugal.
Thermacline of Canada
Thermacline have sold a 40m tether unit to Labrador Diving Services (LDS) for deployment on pipe, tank and dive support work. The extremely portable nature of the 1 case AC-ROV system has been a major benefit to Mr Brian Corbin of LDS: “I carry out annual inspections on base reservoirs and ships for Serco, the Canadian Forces Goose Bay base service provider. As a result I require to be flown from job to job by helicopter. The compact hand carry AC-ROV is so suited to my work environment - I love the machine!”
Environment Canada has also purchased a 40m tethered AC-ROV system from Thermacline for use in river bed monitoring of fish species and pollution. The AC-ROV will be deployed mainly for aquatic plant and substrate cartography allowing hydrodynamic and plant modeling of the St. Lawrence River to be achieved.
AC-CESS Signs 3 New Distributors
06/09
AC-CESS Co UK Ltd (Aberdeen Scotland) are pleased to announce the singing of three further international distributors for the AC-ROV Underwater Inspection System. This further cements AC-CESS’s position as the dominant European micro ROV manufacturer.
Dacon Inspection (Norway & Sweden)
Based in Norway and headquartered in Thailand, Dacon Inspection offer services ranging from non destructive testing (NDT) to complete inspection programs to the oil and gas, petrochemical and power industries. With a client base covering the Scandinavian countries and the entire South East Asian region, Dacon are at the forefront of RVI technology. What they can’t buy they make themselves including crawler vehicles, pigs and probes.
Mr. Bore Borretzen, Marketing Manager and co-founder of Dacon was immediately impressed by the AC-ROV “As soon as we saw the AC-ROV we knew it would slot into our inspection offering perfectly. In our industry, vehicle size, mobility and ingress capability are project critical factors – this is why Dacon build their own inspection vehicles if they can’t a ready solution. We have never seen an ROV as small, mobile and powerful as the AC-ROV - we were genuinely astounded”.
MeriNorpat (Finland)
MeriNorpat is a family business formed in 1984 and located in Uusikaupunki, South-West Finland. Originally offering inshore diving services MeriNorpat expanded their business operation into shallow water survey and inspection in 2008 with the inclusion of various sonar survey products.
Having taken delivery of a 100 meter tethered AC-ROV with depth sensor, rear view camera, slipring and 2 function manipulator, Mr Marko Saramo (Managing Director, MeriNorpat) has a very positive outlook for the AC-ROV “The AC-ROV completes our shallow water survey and inspection capability fantastically well. Its portable, robust and capable characteristics tick all our requirements so we can now offer an unrivalled low cost shallow survey and inspection package.
Juwenta DB (Kazakhstan & Surrounding Territories)
Juwenta DB GmbH is a procurement and financial consulting company, based in Germany. The main business of the company is to develop and structure financial solutions that fit the needs of their clients. Known for exploring new ways of connecting private companies and government authorities, Juwenta DB is a leading supplier to the law enforcement, environmental protection and dangerous material disposal sectors of the Republic of Kazakhstan. Exclusively representing over 20 European, Canadian and US military producers in Kazakhstan, Juwenta DB feel adding the AC-ROV to their product line will create new benefits both for their military and civil customers.
www.dacon.no www.merinorpat.com www.juwentadb.org
AC-ROV Options Launch at Ocean Business 2009
04/09
AC-CESS CO UK Ltd (Aberdeen, Scotland), manufacturer of the market leading AC-ROV Underwater Inspection System has successful launched a suite of new vehicle options. Revealed to great interest at Ocean Business 2009 (Southampton, England) a new USBL positioning and tracking system, thickness gauge and variable intensity laser scaling system was demonstrated to visitors and exhibitors alike.
The new options are inline with the AC-ROV ethos of mobility, portability and robustness, with each solution a fully integrated arrangement. The outcome retains the clean, robust and snag free shape of the AC-ROV, with each option representing a simple retrofit with no specialist operator training required.
As with all shows, visitors were encouraged to fly the AC-ROV in the stand demonstration tank, while successful dockside demonstrations of the new AC-ROV High Performance Thruster (HPT) where carried out. The HPT offers greater vehicle speed, power and excursion capability without compromise of control or stability. The HPT will be fitted to all new build AC-ROVs as standard and is available as a straight change-out component to all existing users.
For USBL Positioning and Tracking, Thickness Gauge and Laser Scaling datasheets please visit:
ROVworld Lda Ships AC-ROV System to India
04/09
ROVworld is pleased to announce the sale of an AC-ROV system, complete with 100m tether, to Dunnimaa Engineers & Diver Enterprises Pvt Ltd of Mumbai, India. The AC-ROV system comprised the AC-ROV vehicle (depth rated to -75m) along with 100m tether (Neutral buoyancy in Seawater) spooled onto a Tether Deployment System (TDS) with the slip ring option fitted. A recommended spares pack was also included in the supply. The whole system fits into only one Storm case for ease of transport and deployment.
Mr A S Rathore, Manager Dunnimaa original inquiry indicated that they were looking for a compact system to include single operator setup and use with ease of transportation by road or helicopter. As the AC-ROV requires only one operator and fits into only one rugged Storm case, Mr. Rathore felt that it suited their needs by offering both value for money and high portability.
The AC-ROV will be used by Dunnimaa in the Mumbai High region, West coast of India, for quick response oil & gas support tasks requiring underwater observation and video recording to -75m water depth.
03/09
The AC-ROV is the most capable and portable underwater inspection system in the world and its phenomenal success owes much to its unique centreless thruster design.
Unlike other thruster designs, there is no motor in the flow path. The benefits are that thrust is significantly greater than from a same size shaft mounted propeller, thrust is equal in both directions, and as AC-ROV users know, the “no shaft” design is virtually foul proof.
The original centreless thruster was developed over many months of experimentation with many different design configurations. The experimentation has continued and an even better performing thruster has evolved from the combined efforts of AC-CESS and their engineering partners ALL OCEANS of Aberdeen, Scotland.
Existing AC-ROV users from a variety of industrial sectors were selected to field test the “Mark 2” thruster, reporting greater vehicle speed, power and excursion capability without compromise of control or stability. The Mark 2 thruster will be fitted to all new build AC-ROV’s as standard and is available as a straight change-out component to all existing users.
01/09
Leading micro ROV manufacturer AC-CESS Co UK Ltd (Aberdeen, Scotland) has reported a number of last quarter 2008 successes with its AC-ROV Underwater Inspection System including the following:
The company has achieved its first 2 sales in the Russian Federation with AC-ROV distributor Underwater Technique and Tetis Pro both of Moscow, purchasing high specification systems for undisclosed clients.
AC-ROV distributor ROVTS (Republic of Korea) has delivered a second AC-ROV system to the Korea Hydro & Nuclear Power CO., LTD (KHNP). Purchased to carry out vital inspection work in nuclear power plants, the vehicles primary role is the internal inspection of emergency water tanks that activate in the event of fire in the nuclear reactor. This system was purchased following the success of the first AC-ROV in this role with the AC-ROV’s replacing KHNP’s own micro ROV systems. This is the third AC-ROV delivered to the Korean nuclear industry.
Holland Yachting of Malaga, Spain report the successful completion of seabed inspection survey’s in harsh conditions using their newly acquired AC-ROV. The vessel based surveys were carried out in 20 meters using a clump weight in 3 knots current. Initially purchased to carry out propeller, hull, reservoir, aquaculture installation and general harbour inspections the capable nature of the AC-ROV has surprised its owners.
Impressed by the vehicle and overall system size, camera image quality, mobility and thrust to weight ratio the vehicle is leading its owners into new commercial territory.
Acknowledged world expert in underwater inspection, Mr Ross Sutherland of Kuala Lumpur, Malaysia and Perth, Western Australia has purchased a fully optioned AC-ROV for private and commercial use. Mr Sutherland is very complimentary about the system “I’ve been involved in subsea inspection for 32 years now and it amazes me how far the technology has come. The AC-ROV has moved things to another level with regards to system size and capability. The AC-ROV is a new a benchmark in ROV technology”.
The purchase of a 100m tethered AC-ROV with custom reel, slip ring and two function manipulator by Daugavbils University (Latgale, Latvia) represents AC-CESS’s first sale into Latvia. The system will be deployed in a fresh water lake research capacity, monitoring various fish species and collecting fish eggs and vegetation samples. Purchased because of its reliable and rugged nature, the University will also use the AC-ROV in a pollution monitoring role.
Please come and visit the AC-CESS stand at Ocean Business Exhibition, National Oceanographic Centre Southampton, England 31st March 2nd April 2009 – Stand No. A16.
01/09
With great pleasure leading micro ROV manufacturer AC-CESS CO UK Ltd (Aberdeen, Scotland) has announced the signing of contracts with National Tool Leasing LLC (Sterling, Virginia) to distribute the AC-ROV Underwater Inspection System in the USA.
Founded in 2008 by veterans of the rental and emergency services industries, National Tool Leasing (NTL) has quickly established itself by fulfilling the needs of the hazardous environment rental market. NTL’s business model is based on central distribution of specialty equipment that traditional regionalised rental businesses struggle to support. Due to high customer demand and a natural overlap of suppliers and market types, NTL have positioned themselves to provide the same level of service and support to the underwater inspection and commercial diving community.
Ken Mikeman, founding partner of NTL says, "These AC-CESS units are tremendously capable and are a perfect compliment to our existing offerings. Our established nationwide customers will benefit immediately from this addition, and we are very optimistic about the future of the AC-ROV in the industries we serve”.
Callum Magee of AC-CESS is equally enthusiastic about the partnership, “NTL’s approach to market fits extremely well with the AC-ROV ethos – portable, robust, rapid deployment and ease of use. The US now has a fast delivery rental capability for the world’s leading rapid intervention underwater inspection system”.
To rent, buy or arrange a demonstration of the AC-ROV please visit: www.rentaltoolsonline.com
11/08
AC-CESS Co UK Ltd (Aberdeen, Scotland), manufacturer of the AC-ROV underwater inspection system is delighted to reveal the signing of international distribution agreements with two market leading companies:
Seavision Technologies (Newcastle, Australia) is the equipment and component supply arm of ATSA Defence Services. Founded in 2000 as a service partner for Royal Australian Navy, ATSA combines innovation and expertise to deliver solutions for technological applications involving world leading advanced electronic systems.
Having taken delivery of their first AC-ROV, Seavision Technologies primary focus is the supply of equipment deployed in harsh military maritime environments. Mr Darren Burrowes, ATSA Marketing Director, is very enthusiastic about his latest project; “The AC-ROV gives a whole new meaning to the phrase ‘portable ROV capability’. We can now offer a robust field proven underwater inspection system that allows unrivalled mobility and ingress capability all in a single hand carry case.”
Representing the AC-ROV in the Republic of Korea, ROV Technology Service (ROVTS) is the country’s leading ROV & AUV consultancy company, with extensive experience in the military, nuclear and oceanographic sectors.
Having taken delivery of their demonstration unit, ROVTS has got off to a flying start with the sale of an AC-ROV system to the Korea Hydro & Nuclear Power CO., LTD (KHNP). Purchased to carry out vital inspection work at nuclear power plants, its primary role is the internal inspection of emergency water tanks that are activated in the event of a fire in the nuclear reactor.
The AC-ROV has proved so successful in this role that KHCP will take delivery of a second system in first quarter 2009. This will be the third AC-ROV delivered to the Korean nuclear industry.
10/08
Leading Micro ROV manufacturer AC-CESS Co UK Ltd (Aberdeen, Scotland) has announced the delivery of an AC-ROV Underwater Inspection System to CDF Commercial Diving Fankhauser / TAF Taucharbeiten AG (CDF / TAF) of Niederried, Kallnach, Switzerland.
As Switzerland’s leading commercial diving company, CDF / TAF specialise in underwater construction, engineering, industrial cleaning and inspection. Managing Director Mr André Fankhauser was quick to see the potential of the AC-ROV system: “Of all the system’s we looked at, the AC-ROV was the best suited to our requirement. A portable one case system, the AC-ROV is highly suited to confined industrial environments, its ingress capability, mobility and robustness really set it apart from other systems. It is the ideal visual tool for inland commercial diving, for general inspection or as a safety device to be deployed with the dive team.”
The 120 meter tether system is hard at work on a pipe line inspection job in the 3 Lakes Region of the country.
08/08
World renowned internet-based information provider, ROVworld, has signed up with AC-CESS Co UK Ltd. as the latest AC-ROV distributor.
Owners James and Gina McLauchlan are widely known in the Underwater Inspection and ROV industry and now represent AC-CESS and the AC-ROV. ROVworld has been a global ROV and Underwater industry news and information hub for many years; however, James and Gina felt that they were in a strong market position to add an ROV and Underwater Inspection hardware capability to their base in Portugal. After some considerable time surveying options in the micro-ROV market, they settled on the AC-ROV.
Following high market interest and a hectic demonstration schedule, ROVworld Lda has taken delivery of a second system. James said; "We are pleased that so much interest has been shown in the AC-ROV. Having a second unit onsite means that we can respond to market needs quickly, with a demonstration unit always available along with a second system on hand, should a customer require urgent delivery.
Gina spent training time with AC-CESS at their Aberdeen facility prior to James’ visit, during which he collected the hand carry system in person. Callum Magee, Business Development Manager for AC-CESS, summed up the agreement “We are all very proud to be associated with a company as renowned and knowledgeable as ROVworld. It is a credit to all at AC-CESS and their parent company All Oceans Engineering that AC-CESS has secured its position as a leading global supplier of micro ROVs.”
07/08
Leading Saudi Arabian marine construction company Huta Marine Works has taken delivery of an AC-ROV Underwater Inspection System. The sale represents the first export into Saudi Arabia for AC-CESS, the Aberdeen based manufacturer.
With over 2,500 employees, Huta Marine is a specialist marine equipment owner operator, supporting a broad range of construction activities in the Persian Gulf and surrounding Middle East region.
Mr. Bora Altunsecen, Operations Manager of the Huta Marine Diving Division, was very clear when asked about why the AC-ROV was chosen over other available micro ROV systems: “The operational flexibility of the system was at the forefront of our decision making process. The overall size and weight of the system enables an ease of transport and deployment that other micro ROV systems cannot match. This flexibility, coupled with the AC-ROV’s superior mobility, video quality and price gave the best fit with our inspection requirements”
The AC-ROV has two specific inspection roles within the Huta organisation: Firstly, the unit is deployed in a health and safety capacity for dive site inspection of hazardous and confined environments, such as water intakes. The dive site is inspected and mapped prior to the dive team entering the water; with the AC-ROV monitoring the dive team when work is underway. Secondly, the vehicle enables site engineers and decision-makers to view submerged targets and work progress first hand, minimising disruption to the work site and ahead of mobilising the dive team.
06/08
AC-CESS Co UK Ltd, Britain’s leading Micro ROV manufacturer has delivered an AC-ROV Underwater Inspection System to FMC Technologies Ltd.
FMC Technologies, the leading manufacturer and supplier of subsea production systems, had a requirement to update and improve the visual inspection of subsea equipment within their test tank. Historically, a network of dropper cameras has been used to monitor the testing of equipment. The biggest problem that FMC testers had was differentiating between leaks and air pockets, because dropper cameras could not get in close enough and were extremely difficult to manipulate. This and the fact that many areas could not be accessed with a dropper camera caused major testing delays. A solution was required to overcome these problems.
FMC decided to go ahead with the purchase of the AC-ROV after a very successful trial at their Dunfermline site. It took approximately half an hour from vehicle deployment for the FMC charge-hands to give a resounding thumb’s up to the AC-ROV. After witnessing the vehicles amazing mobility, picture quality and easy control they realized how much ‘test time’ would be saved, as a result of the AC-ROV’s ability to ingress all but the smallest spaces in the fabric of the subsea tree used for the purposes of the trial. Two hours after deployment, three charge-hands had enough piloting skill to fly the AC-ROV under the tree and up the bore (9.5” dia.) – an area previously out of reach to to dropper cameras and other underwater visual inspection tools. The connectors housed inside the bore were viewed with ease and the vehicle was piloted back out each time with out incident. Managers at FMC were impressed by the robustness of the vehicle, the small area the system required for deployment and the price of the system against potential and significant time and cost savings.
Mr Callum Magee of AC-CESS points to this sale as helping reinforce the AC-ROV as the only serious micro ROV for confined ingress inspection work.
AC-ROV Makes Strides in RVI Sector
06/08
The dominance of the AC-ROV micro submersible in the Remote Visual Inspection (RVI) market has been reinforced with the sale of a system to one of the worlds leading RVI specialists Dacon Inspection Services of Norway.
Originating in Norway but now headquartered in Thailand, Dacon offer services ranging from non destructive testing (NDT) to complete inspection programs with specialised inspection techniques to the oil and gas, petrochemical and power industries. With a client base covering the Scandinavian countries and the entire South East Asian region, Dacon are at the forefront of RVI technology. What they can’t buy they make themselves including crawler vehicles, pigs and probes.
Mr. Bore Borretzen, Marketing Manager and co-founder of Dacon was immediately impressed by the AC-ROV after a demonstration at Offshore Europe 2007 (Aberdeen). “As soon as we saw the AC-ROV we knew it would slot into our inspection offering perfectly. In our industry, vehicle size, mobility and ingress capability are project critical factors – this is why Dacon build their own inspection vehicles. We had never seen an ROV as small, mobile and powerful as the AC-ROV - we were genuinely astounded”.
Dacon purchased the AC-ROV against the successful award of an inspection project involving the Teekay Petrojarl owned Petrojarl Varg FPSO vessel. Due to the current high oil and gas price, fleet owners do not want vessels docked for inspection. The Varg (which can produce for 15 years without being docked) will have the interior of its sea chest, including the butterfly valve, inspected by the AC-ROV while at sea.
The AC-ROV is the only micro ROV that is small enough and has the required mobility to successfully complete such an essential inspection task.
05/06
The rapidly growing global presence of the AC-ROV underwater inspection system took another step forward this month with the unveiling of the latest company to join the AC-CESS international distributor network.
Louisiana based Underwater Observations Inc (UOI). has an impressive pedigree in the Gulf of Mexico (GoM) marine and offshore industries. Formed specifically to take the AC-ROV to the GoM marketplace, UOI is a subsidiary of Mid Gulf Shipping Company Inc.
Mid-Gulf Shipping Company Inc. has enjoyed providing first class services to various clients operating in the GoM and surrouding areas for over 40 years. A values based company, Mid Gulf’s highly dedicated workforce operate in various marine sectors including: hull and underwater survey services, offshore construction logistics and support services, ship agency, local and worldwide freight services, project management and warehousing/spares management.
Being involved in a wide range of Maritime Services, Mr. Eric Toft, President and CEO Mid Gulf was quick to realize the true potential of the Micro ROVs. After extensive research, the unique design of the AC-ROV caught his immediate attention and lead Mt Toft to AC-CESS’s door. Seeing the AC-ROV system in operation sealed the formation of Underwater Observation Inc.
Mr Toft explains “Advancements in micro ROV technology represent a number of new possibilities in numerous industries and business sectors. The AC-ROV represents the most forward thinking and progressive design in the Micro ROV market today. We are fortunate to represent this product and have already built up a ground swell of interest in the vehicle”.
Mr Callum Magee, AC-CESS Business Development Manager is delighted at the signing of their latest distributor. “To enter into a partnership with such an established and respected company in such a key geographical market as the GoM speaks volumes for how far AC-CESS has developed since the company’s inception three and a half years ago. In terms of overall ease of operation, mobility, robustness and ingress capability the AC-ROV has established itself as the leading micro ROV in Europe. GoM based companies with submerged visual inspection requirements now have easy access to this powerful tool.
Underwater Observations Inc. has taken delivery of an 80 metered tethered AC-ROV with rear view camera system.
www.underwater-observation.com
J.S. Dykkerservice Buy AC-ROV
04/08
AC-CESS Co UK Ltd (Aberdeen, Scotland) is delighted to announce the sale of a AC-ROV Underwater Inspection System to J.S. Dykkerservice (Haugesund, Norway).
Founded in 1965, J.S. Dykkerservice (JSD) offers "all round" commercial diving services to the onshore / inshore market. Owned by ex-military diver Mr John Skarholm, the AC-ROV purchase enables JSD to offer their clients a rapid deployment inspection tool that generates high quality video footage of targets previously beyond the company’s service capability.
Øystein Skarholm of JSD is enjoying getting to know their latest acquisition.
“The AC-ROV is a very interesting piece of kit - the vehicle mobility, robustness and camera footage quality really sets it apart from other systems we looked at. JSD will be deploying the vehicle in a duel role capacity: as a standalone ROV for inspection applications and as the ideal diver companion for the onshore / inshore markets we serve.”
The 120 meter tethered AC-ROV is to be immediately deployed on two cable inspection jobs in the Haugesund region. Firstly the unit will inspect a gas line lying at 40 meters depth that is thought to have been damaged by ship anchor movement. The second job involves the inspection of a fibre optic cable lying at 75 meters depth close to seabed rock shelf.
For AC-ROV inspections and demonstrations please contact:
Vis-Tech Inspection Buy AC-ROV
03/08
AC-CESS Co UK Ltd (Aberdeen, Scotland) is proud to announce the sale of an AC-ROV Underwater Inspection System to Vis-Tech Inspection of Alberta, Canada.
Founded in 1996, Vis-Tech is one of Canada’s premier remote visual inspection specialists, operating a fleet of land based crawler systems and an autonomous helicopter for altitude inspection applications.
When asked to explain their move to incorporate a submerged inspection capability to their service offering Vis-Tech CEO Mr Darcy Clarke stated that the mobility and access capability of the AC-ROV system has bridged the divide between submerged remotely operated vehicle (ROV) operations and remote visual inspection applications.
“Vis-tech has been monitoring the development of micro ROV technology for a few years now. Our research has shown that the AC-ROV, has the minimal size, portability and simplicity of operation required for remote visual inspection work typically the domain of pole cameras and the like”
Mr Callum Magee, Business Development Manager from AC-CESS agreed with this analysis:
“We have seen a strong trend confirming the use of our vehicles in applications that previously were the domain of pole cameras, bore scopes and small crawler vehicles. The AC-ROV enables clients to get very high quality video of targets in what were previously no go areas. The mobility and ingress capability of the AC-ROV is unmatched for ROV’s in the remote visual inspection market.”
For submerged remote visual inspection services and product demonstration please visit:
Creators of World’s Smallest and Most Successful Micro ROV
03/08
The following article is taken from “New technology CADCAM” and has not been edited for this reproduction.
Brian Abel, Owner and Managing Director of All Oceans Engineering Ltd, reveals: “The key to achieving our design goals was using SolidWorks. Even after thirty years’ engineering practice we were pleasantly surprised by how much we enjoyed utilising its design methods.”
The project specification originated from the British Government: to create a Micro ROV capable of passing through an 8” diameter hole, in order to survey a sunken trawler, lost in suspicious circumstances.
Critical to the success of any ROV is its propulsion and control. However, no commercially available designs for thrusters and motors were suitable due to the miniature envelope permitted. The design team turned to a SolidWorks contractor to enable them to visualise and measure in 3D their unique impeller design, to be mounted externally on the ROV. The goal: maximum efficiency and equal thrust in forward and reverse modes.
“With traditional drafting and 2D AutoCAD systems we simply could not have achieved the detailed design visualisation required and building a prototype from 2D drawings would have been expensive, if not impossible. With SolidWorks, the team simply sent the 3D model electronically to a rapid prototyping company - and two days and fifty pounds later we had a prototype fit to test!”
SolidWorks was also used to orchestrate all the operating components required for a sophisticated, miniature ROV without clashing. Being able to check such detail on screen was invaluable.
All Oceans Engineering have now purchased their own SolidWorks seat from NT CADCAM. Abel says, “SolidWorks is intuitive to use - it’s a designers tool - superseding traditional and AutoCAD drafting systems. SolidWorks is enabling us to improve both our designs and customer services.”
www.ntcadcam.co.uk:80/2007-03-All-Oceans-Micro-ROV.htm
ROV Downunder Sells Three AC-ROV’S
08/07
The continuing success of the AC-CESS AC-ROV underwater inspection system in Australia has been reinforced with the sale of three more units by AC-ROV distributor ‘ROV Downunder’.
Facilitated by Mr Bill Bulloch – Managing Director of ROV Downunder, the units have been delivered to their new owners and have been hard at work from the offset.
Warwick Camplin of Camplin Diving Services, Port Douglas, Queensland explained the thinking behind his AC-ROV purchase:
“At Camplin we position ourselves as your one stop for any underwater work in any environment. With its portability, ease of deployment, control and high maneuverability the AC-ROV fits perfectly with our ethos”
Purchasing two AC-ROV systems in quick succession, Mr Graham Thompson of Underwater Observations P/L was delighted with the offshore performance of the first unit.
“The capable nature of the AC-ROV has led to a demand level we did not foresee. The decision to purchase the second system was client led, giving us a greater work scope and dual redundancy“
Mr Bulloch (ROV Downunder) was delighted with the sales, emphasising the AC-ROV’s unique selling points of size, mobility and robustness as key to gaining a strong foothold in the Australia micro ROV sector.
AC-CESS – Engineering With Pedigree
Prona Canarias Sign With AC-CESS
07/07
Prona Canarias (Santa Cruz, Spain) has signed a distribution and service agreement with AC-CESS Co UK Ltd (Aberdeen, Scotland) for the AC-ROV underwater inspection system.
Founded in 2003 Prona specialise in all types of marine construction and have established themselves as one of the leading companies in the sector. Headquartered in Tenerife, Prona have an international presence completing large scale construction jobs on mainland Spain, down through West Africa and as far a field as Australia.
Mr Rigoberto Rodriguez, Prona’s founder states that one of the operating principles of the company is to utilise new technologies to increase profitability and safety:
“What first got my attention about the AC-ROV was it’s ‘on-site’ capabilities, I can get a camera on any submerged target now - the engineers or client can see exactly what’s going on. Plus I don’t need to send the divers into that environment for visual inspection jobs!”
Citing the AC-ROV’s physical robustness and mobility as differentiating it from other micro vehicle systems Mr Rodriquez was keen to sign up as a distributor. As representative for a wide range of international construction equipment manufacturers, Mr Rodriquez feels Prona now offers a unique product and service that previously was not available in the Spanish marine construction industry.
AC-CESS – Engineering With Pedigree
SEABED BV NEW AC-ROV DISTRIBUTOR
06/07
It is with great pleasure AC-CESS Co UK Ltd (Aberdeen, Scotland) announce Seabed BV (Amsterdam, Holland) as the new distributor of the AC-ROV underwater inspection system for the Benelux countries.
Seabed BV have a 25 year history serving the local Dutch and international subsea market. Integrating their in-house manufactured acoustic, sensor and logging solutions with complimentary partner products, Seabed have built a solid reputation based on technical knowledge and reliable products and services.
Seabed Sales Manager, Mr Vincent van Santen views the AC-ROV as a powerful addition to Seabed’s capabilities:
“The AC-ROV micro ROV unit is a unique design: it’s as tough as a brick, as mobile as a helicopter and fits into the most confined of spaces! It’s extremely portable, easy to service and most importantly for us it’s proven. We see great scope for the vehicle in a variety of inspection roles, not least the Dutch dredging, construction and waterway sectors”.
Seabed offers the AC-ROV in a sales, solution and rental capacity.
Seabed BV takes over from Mr Rob Berlijin and Hydro Consult as distributor for the AC-ROV in Netherlands following Mr Berlijin tragic passing earlier this year.
AC-CESS – Engineering With Pedigree
05/07
Prodive Services (Tuzla, Romania) have purchased an AC-ROV underwater inspection system from AC-CESS Co UK Ltd (Aberdeen, Scotland).
The 80m tether remotely operated vehicle was specified to include a rear view camera and light system and an additional 100m tether with custom reel.
Mr Christian Vlad, owner director of Prodive and long-time AC-ROV admirer is delighted with the micro ROV performance, with a series of jobs successfully completed:
“We have finished a series of confined access hazardous environment jobs ranging from reservoir pipe, ship hull and harbour inspections in Tuzla area to ongoing inspections at the Cernavoda Nuclear Power Plant – Romanias only nuclear power station”.
Mr Callum Magee, business development manager at AC-CESS is especially pleased with the sale:
“Selling into Romania is not an everyday occurrence and we feel this is another indication that the AC-ROV has secured its place among the longer established micro ROV vehicles.”
Prodive Services - Romania, +40 745 109 894
04/07
HydroServ (Wicklow, Ireland) have purchased an AC-ROV underwater inspection system from manufacturer AC-CESS Co UK Ltd (Aberdeen, Scotland).
HydroServ is a multi-disciplinary marine organisation supplying a variety of construction, engineering, vessel and consultancy services to the Marine sector in Ireland the UK and Europe.
With extensive near-shore and offshore experience in marine operations; vessel charter & management; marine construction and underwater operations including ROV inspection, HydroServ are well placed to gauge the benefits of the micro ROV and its unique selling points.
HydroServ operations manger Simon Greewood points to the rapid deployment, small system footprint and mobility of the unit:
“The AC-ROV gives us a rapid inspection capability that previously would involve divers or large ROV deployment at extended timescales. A principle can get a real-time visual on request, with the unit in the water in 2 minutes, after the deployment the system is stowed away in one hand carry case – it’s easy”
“What really made a big impression on us was the mobility and robustness of the AC-ROV, it’s like an incredible mobile brick– it gets a camera onto targets that were previously invisible to us”
Whether deployed on HydroServ’s workboat the ‘MT Husky’, or employed nearer to shore Mr Greenwood expects a busy life for the dynamic micro ROV.
AC-CESS – Engineering With Pedigree
10/06
Specialist engineering group STATS UK LTD (Aberdeen, Scotland & Global) provide the oil, gas and petrochemical industries with a range of products and services for piping inspection, repair, connection, isolation and testing. Providing high-quality solutions that meet their clients required technical, safety and environmental standards. STATS have initially purchased one AC-ROV underwater inspection system for use on their various pipeline integrity projects.
Project Engineer Mr Al Den-Mckay explains that STATS were actively searching for a genuinely work capable micro submersible and were mightily impressed by the AC-ROV. Sighting the systems size (critical to STATS applications), versatility, maneuverability, and durability, Al describes the AC-ROV as: “a genuine micro ‘work class’ ROV that allows serious inspections of confined underwater areas”
STATS were also delighted to find the AC-ROV is manufactured in Aberdeen, Scotland, just a few miles from their HQ.
AC-CESS – Engineering With Pedigree
Andrew Moore Associates Buy AC-ROV
09/06
Combining the latest advances in industrial technologies with many years of real-world experience, AMA have the capacity to take on even the most demanding of marine and oceanographic projects, and complete them to the highest of standards.
Wishing to maintain this high level of service and professionalism AMA have purchased one AC-ROV system with extended tether length, rear view camera system and depth sensor. The unit is seen as a general visual inspection work horse, with Mr David Browne of AMA stating:
“AMA spent over a year evaluating the various visual inspection technologies available, after a series of exhibition and open water demos we felt that the AC-ROV offered the versatility, mobility and robustness we require.”
With a number of jobs requiring the AC-ROV’s attention the unit will deploy across the Far East primarily for wreak ingress, hull and prop inspection, and dive site evaluation.
AC-CESS – Engineering With Pedigree
AC-CESS APPOINTS 3 DISTRIBUTORS
07/06
Underwater remotely operated vehicle (ROV) manufacturer AC-CESS (Aberdeen, Scotland) has the pleasure of announcing the agreement of 3 more international distribution contracts for the breakthrough AC-ROV inspection system.
Red Box International (Southampton, England) – Complimenting Red Box’s range of security and search inspection equipment, AC-ROV gives Red Box the access to submerged environments they’ve been looking for.
Wright Technologies (Wellington, Auckland & Christchurch, New Zealand) – With over 50 years of marine technology experience, AC-ROV completes Wrights ROV product offering and opens new inspection applications.
Irtisaal Enterprises (Karachi & Islamabad, Pakistan) – Deemed to be incomparable with any other small ROV, AC-ROV provides solutions for this expanding market place.
The only single case hand carry ROV available, AC-ROV deploys in less than 3 minutes while being controlled at all times by a single operator. This 75 meter rated vehicle employs 6 vectored thrusters that give unequalled mobility packaged in a truly robust modular design.
AC-CESS – Engineering With Pedigree
AC-CESS Sign 4 More International Distributors
05/06
Underwater remotely operated vehicle (ROV) manufacturer AC-CESS demonstrates their continuing global growth with the finalisation of 4 more formal agreements to distribute the next generation micro ROV the AC-ROV:
1) ELP GmbH of Wuppertal of Germany was founded in 1989 and specialise in ROV and X-Ray based technologies to the military market. Long time distributors for renowned ROV manufacturer’s iRobot and Allen Vanguard, ELP view the AC-ROV as the ideal rapid response submersible for the security detection and inspection market.
2) BTT Automatyka Sp. z o.o. of Gdansk, Poland was founded in 1994. The company specialise in underwater technologies including dive systems, sonar, positioning systems, tether and tether management systems and ROV’s from companies such as MacArtney, Tritech and Divex. BTT Automatyka has identified the AC-ROV’s size and mobility as key differentiators in the marketplace.
3) All-Star Technology Corporation of Taiwan was founded in 1992 and historically serves the oceanographic, hydrographic, seismographic and geophysical markets. Development into the submersed inspection sector pushed the requirement for cutting edge technologies, leading All-Star to the AC-ROV. Their 20 strong team pride themselves on offering the complete package in terms of technology, know how, servicing and support. All-Star distribute and support Geomation, Automata, RBR, Westsystems and ANCO technologies among others.
4) LinkOcean of China was founded in 2005 and historically specialise in the oceanographic and hydrological markets. Similar to All Star, LinkOcean have witnessed increasing demand for cutting edge underwater inspection equipment and view the AC-ROV as the ideal vehicle to answer this demand. LinkOcean distribute RBR, Helzel and Sonavision technologies to the Chinese market.
Mr Brian Abel, MD of AC-CESS is delighted but not overly surprised by the signings, “The AC-ROV offers potential users a new dimension in underwater inspection, the system is highly portable and has extreme mobility and robustness – any company with a serious client focus should be interested in offering it to their client base”.
AC-CESS – Engineering With Pedigree
Caledonian MacBrayne Buy AC-ROV
04/06
AC-CESS the manufacturer of the world leading AC-ROV underwater inspection system announces the sale of an AC-ROV vehicle to Scottish West Coast and Islands ferry operator Caledonian MacBrayne (CalMac).
After receiving a demonstration of the cutting edge capabilities of the AC-ROV at Seawork Exhibition (Southampton, England), CalMac representative Mr John Solton was convinced of the need for such technology in the CalMac fleet:
“It’s the best underwater vehicle of this type I’ve seen. We can now carry out on the spot prop and hull inspections with the minimum of fuss and disruption. The AC-ROV ticks all our inspection boxes: it fits in one case, is very rapid to deploy (under 3 minutes), it fly’s sideways, is robust and simple to use. It even attaches itself to ship hulls and glides along it!”
Mr Salton was staggered to see the AC-ROV capability of sucking itself onto a surface and then ‘gliding’ along it to carry out the inspection – all standard AC-ROV’s have this industry first ability, no modifications or hybrids required.
CalMac currently owns and operates a modern fleet of 31 vessels providing passenger, vehicle and shipping services to the islands off the West Coast of Scotland and in the Clyde estuary. There are currently 26 routes within the network. In 2004, more than 5 million passengers and over one million accompanied cars were carried on the Company’s services.
CalMac combines over 150 years of experience of serving the islands and ports on the west coast of Scotland.
AC-CESS – Engineering With Pedigree
AC-ROV ENJOY’S A LIVELY O.I. 2006
03/06
Oceanology International 2006 was the busiest ever exhibition for AC-CESS and a benchmark in submersible vehicle demonstration. Their hand carry AC-ROV underwater inspection system was operational for the full 3 show days and kept Callum, Brian and Kevin very busy with an overall average of nearly 6 hands-on presentations per hour.
Visitors were given a quick demonstration of the micro ROV’s capability in the eye level glass tank before being let loose to try it themselves. This was followed by a run through of what you get for your money in a single hand carry case, ready to operate system. A wide screen TV had the new AC-ROV ‘Demo on a Disc’ on continuous play to inform those visitors waiting in the queue and for finishing off a visitor presentation with live underwater footage. The ‘Demo on a Disk’ covers, amongst other things, how easy it is to fly the AC-ROV sideways and how it can “limpet-on” and glide across surfaces, both of which are powerful capabilities for simplifying large surface inspections such as harbour walls and ship hulls. Contact Callum at www.ac-cess.com for more information.
It was the most successful exhibition to date for AC-CESS providing a world stage for what was in effect a 3 day demonstration. With the extreme mobility of the AC-ROV in the confines of the demo tank, the little ROV was one of the stars of the show.
AC-CESS – Engineering With Pedigree
www.ac-cess.com
AC-CESS AC-ROV Delivered To Korean Atomic Energy Research Institute
01/06
UK based micro ROV manufacturer AC-CESS reports the delivery of one it’s market leading AC-ROV vehicles to the Korean Atomic Energy Research Institute (KAERI).
Based in Taejon, KAERI representatives identified the AC-ROV as the most suitable micro submersible following analysis of the ROV market. The AC-ROV was optioned with a two function manipulator, depth sensor, rear camera system and extensive spares.
Mr Jisup Yoon, Director of the Nuclear Fuel Cycle Remote Technology Laboratory, explained the mobility, 2 function manipulator and single operator benefit of the AC-ROV where deciding factors in the purchasing decision.
Bought for the inspection of research reactor pools and cooling water pools the sale represents the AC-ROV’s continued penetration of diverse and demanding markets.
AC-CESS – Engineering With Pedigree
BUYS TWO AC-ROV’S
01/06
Visitors to the newly extended National Marine Aquarium (NMA - Plymouth, Great Britain) now have the exciting opportunity to take part in micro ROV battles, competitions and races in a custom built tank arena complete with baying spectators.
AC-CESS have supplied two AC-ROV micro submersibles, with two function manipulators, rear view cameras and custom built control consuls. Visitors will be able to choose from either of the two AC-ROV’s, or one Video Ray or one Seabotix LBV vehicles – let battle commence.
The NMA is the UK’s first aquarium to be set up solely for the purpose of education, conservation and research. It remains Britain's foremost aquarium and in the six years it has been open it has attracted over two million visitors through its doors and thousands of enquiries by letter, telephone, fax and email.
AC-CESS – Engineering With Pedigree
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