Big Blue World
The Global Newsletter of the Society for Underwater Technology Issue 10, July 2024
Welcome
I am delighted to welcome you to this issue of Big Blue World. I’m in a reflective mood reliving an incredible record-breaking edition of All-Energy, and the co-located Dcarbonise, at Glasgow’s SEC (see page 32).
Not only did I have the pleasure of seeing many of our 11 conference halls and eight show floor theatres packed to the proverbial gunwales and hear the most incredible buzz from the busy exhibition; but I was in the room when Professor Deborah Greaves of Plymouth University and the Supergen ORE Hub realised she was to be presented with the SUT’s Lennard-Senior Memorial Prize (see page 9). I love a successful surprise!
I’m having one of those ‘how did I get here’ moments. Let’s start with my first SUT encounter. Spearhead Exhibitions, founded and run by the inspirational David Stott, an SUT Fellow. David acquired Oceanology International in 1982 from the Society and I worked on it handling PR and marketing right up to up to 2000 event. David had also created Offshore Europe – I worked on that from 1975 until after the 1999 show; also on other Spearhead O&G shows around the globe – Brazil, Venezuela, Azerbaijan and was ‘lent’ to Norway’s ONS. I edited the ‘North Sea Oil and Gas Directory’ before acquiring it and becoming its publisher (and marketeer). I sold it in 1994, all the time running a PR consultancy with clients as varied as Fugro, IMCA, Gastech and even superb stately homes.
David retired but we had unfinished business. We were both eager to run a renewable energy exhibition and conference. Aberdeen was prepared to welcome us; we were close to announcing the dates when we decided to undertake some research in June 2000 at a regional edition of the World Renewable Energy Congress in Brighton.
Almost the first person we saw there was Ian Gallett, SUT’s Chief Executive at the time. He was also on a recce as he thought the SUT should be running a marine renewables conference. We came to an agreement there and then that the SUT would become our show’s Learned Society Patron, work with us on the conference, and we would create an exhibition. The first show was held in thick snow in February 2001. 350 attended it, their passion and enthusiasm should have been bottled.
I remember my pride at being invited to sit on a learned society’s Special Interest Group when SUT’s Marine Renewable Energies Committee (MREC) was formed (it still retains a conference involvement). Much later came ever closer-ties to the SUT as I became a Fellow in 2014 and then to my astonishment SUT’s President in 2020 I knew the demands of All-Energy post-pandemic would impinge on the time I could devote to the SUT and so resigned after just one year; but am still a member of the SUT Council and also sit on the Strategy Working Group.
Thank you SUT for stretching my horizons and being such a stimulating partner in so many ways for 42 years!
Judith Patten SUT Past President
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Events & Training Diary
2024
JULY
SUT KL Monthly Session
10 July 2024
Loco, KL
Perth – OSIGp Movie Night
18 July
Perth, WA
Perth – Materials and Corrosion Course
31 July - 1 August 2024
Perth, WA
AUGUST
SUT-US Networking Event
1 August 2024
Velvet Oak Tavern, Houston, TX, USA
Perth – August Evening Technical Meeting - Offshore Wind Foundations
14 August 2024
Parmelia Hilton Perth
SUT KL Monthly Session
14 August 2024
Loco KL
1st EAGE/SUT Workshop on Integrated Site Characterization for Offshore Wind in Asia Pacific
14-15 August 2024
Perth, WA
SUT Aberdeen and THS:UKI ScotlandSuper Summer Special 29 August 2024
Resident X, Aberdeen, UK
SEPTEMBER
Perth – Subsea Awareness Course
2-6 September 2024
Parmelia Hilton, Perth
SUT-US Networking Event
5 September 2024
Union Kitchen, Houston, TX, USA
Aberdeen – Subsea Awareness Course 9-13 September 2024
Palm Court, Aberdeen, UK
SUT KL Monthly Session 11 September 2024
Loco, KL
Perth - SUT & SPE Annual Golf Day 2024
20 September 2024
Maylands Peninsular Golf Course, Perth
SUT-US – Subsea Awareness Course
23-26 September 2024
Houston, TX, USA
OCTOBER
Perth – AGM & Evening Technical Meeting
9 October 2024
Perth, WA
SUT KL Monthly Session
9 October 2024
Loco, KL
Perth – Subsea Controls Down Under Ice-Breaker Function
29 October 2024
Perth, WA
Perth – Subsea Controls Down Under Conference
30-31 October 2024
Perth, WA
NOVEMBER
13th International SUT China Technical Conference
1-4 November 2024
Tianjin, China
ADIPEC 2024
4-7 November 2024
ADNOC Business Centre, Abu Dhabi
Perth – The Lifecycle of Flexible Risers & Flowlines Course
6-7 November 2024
Perth, WA
SUT KL Monthly Session
13 November 2024
Loco, KL
Aberdeen – Subsea Awareness Course
18-22 November 2024
Palm Court, Aberdeen
Perth Annual Dinner 2024
29 November 2024
Westin Hotel, Perth, WA
Forthcoming Events
13th International SUT China Technical Conference
1-4 November 2024 | Tianjin, China
Offshore oil and gas and green energy are major resources to ensure a sustainable industrial development in the future. This event aims to build an open platform for technological exchange, promote the progress of global marine resources exploration and development technology, and enhance international cooperation between Chinese and foreign universities, enterprises and research institutions involved in maritime affairs.
The 13th International SUT China Technical Conference will be held in Tianjin, China, from 1-4 November 2024. We would like to extend our warmest invitation to experts and scholars from domestic and abroad engaged in scientific research, education, production, application, and other disciplines to discuss the development of offshore resources, engineering equipment and related industrial topics.
The annual SUT China Technical Conference was initiated by the SUT China Branch and 12 conferences have been successfully held in Shenzhen, Shanghai, Qingdao, Beijing, Zhoushan, Changsha, Dalian and Haikou, which have been highly recognized by experts and scholars.
With the theme of “Green Development of Marine Energy”, this conference invites distinguished experts and scholars from dozens of universities, research institutes and enterprises in the field of ocean engineering around the world to participate and discuss key topics such as underwater technology, ocean engineering equipment, and development and utilization of ocean resources.
Call for Papers
Abstract submission: 15 September 2024 | Full paper submission: 8 October 2024
This conference will focus on the following topics (including but not limited to):
Development of marine oil and gas and mineral resources
• Subsea production systems
• Risers and pipelines
• New ship and offshore platforms
• Smart ocean technology and applications
• Structure safety and reliability
• Intelligent monitoring, operation and maintenance of ocean engineering equipment
• Underwater survey and communication
• Marine engineering test and numerical simulation technology
• Marine resources mining technology and equipment
Marine renewable energy development
• Renewable energy equipment such as offshore wind turbines, photovoltaic devices and wave energy converters
• Development, monitoring, operation and maintenance of offshore renewable energy equipment
• Grid connection of offshore renewable energy generation
• Storage and conversion of offshore renewable energy
• Integrated development of offshore renewable energy
SUT’s Lennard-Senior Memorial Prize for Marine Renewable Energy
Huge congratulations to Deborah Greaves, a beacon in the field of Ocean Engineering and Renewable Energy!
We’re thrilled to share that Professor Deborah Greaves has been awarded this year’s prestigious SUT LennardSenior Prize at the All-Energy Exhibition and Conference in Glasgow, held in May 2024, in recognition of outstanding individual achievement in the field of Marine Renewable Energy.
As Professor of Ocean Engineering and Director of the COAST at the University of Plymouth, Deborah has been at the forefront of innovative research and transformative projects, shaping the future of sustainable energy solutions.
Since its inception in 2017, Deborah has been Director of the £9m Supergen Offshore Renewable Energy (ORE) Hub. She was appointed to develop the strategy and consortium for the new Supergen ORE Hub that brings together offshore wind with marine energy sectors.
Deborah also led the Collaborative Computational Project on Wave Structure Interaction and has consistently pioneered the development of new technologies in offshore wind, wave, and tidal power.
This has included novel types of wave energy converter, analysis methods for offshore renewable energy farms, and extreme wave-structure interactions.
In addition to her research, Deborah has led high-profile national and international initiatives designed to ensure such technological advances can be applied in real-world scenarios to help meet the country’s future clean energy demands.
Here’s to Deborah’s continued success and the remarkable impact she continues to make in advancing the frontiers of Ocean Engineering and Renewable Energy!
The Lennard-Senior Memorial Prize has been awarded by the SUT annually since 2011 in memory of two of the original members of The Society for Underwater Technology (SUT)’s Marine Renewable Energies Committee (MREC) –Don Lennard and Gordon Senior.
SUT CEO Cheryl Burgess (L) presents Deborah Greaves (R) with her award at All-Energy in Glasgow
Remembering Alex Hunt: A Pillar of the Subsea Community
It is with sadness that we share the news of the passing of Alex Hunt, a respected subsea engineer and technology manager. Alex’s career spanned across leading companies such as Texaco, Total, and BG, where he was known for his eloquent presentations and significant contributions to the field. His insights and knowledge will be remembered by many across the industry.
Alex was a treasured colleague and friend. Many will recall his readiness to mentor, his rich storytelling, and his infectious humor. He was heavily involved with the SUT over the years and, notably, authored the opening chapter in the SUT’s children’s book, Can a Lobster be an Archaeologist? asking ‘Why do ships go missing in the Bermuda Triangle?’. We have included his chapter below for you to enjoy.
Alex’s passing is a great loss. Our heartfelt condolences go out to his widow Cynthia during this difficult time. Those who had the privilege to know him will miss his wisdom, his annual Christmas letters, and his presence at innumerable meetings and conferences.
Rest in peace, Alex. You will be greatly missed.
Friends and former associates are invited to a Service of Thanksgiving for Alex which is to be held on Thursday 11th July at 13:30 at Christ Church, Radlett, WD7 7JJ. Following the service of Thanksgiving there will be a reception at Vision Hall, Christ Church.
Why do ships go missing in the Bermuda Triangle?
written by Alex Hunt
The ocean can be a dangerous place. Storms can cause massive waves. Hurricanes and typhoons have high winds. Monsoons bring heavy rain. Icebergs can be a threat to ships. There can also be unexpected dangers, such as tsunamis, which are huge waves caused by large underwater earthquakes. Even today, pirates continue to sail the seas.
Ever since mankind first started to explore the ocean out of sight of land, these dangers have claimed many lives. Even with all of today’s technology, ships and aircraft sometimes disappear over the ocean. Although most of these can be explained, some still remain a mystery. One place that is renowned for unexplained disappearances is the Bermuda Triangle. Some also call it the Devil’s Triangle.
It does not appear on official maps and charts, but it is a stretch of the Atlantic Ocean bordered by Florida to the west, Bermuda to the north and Puerto Rico to the south. Records of ships disappearing in the area date back to 1800. In more recent times, aircraft have also vanished without trace. Various explanations have been proposed, but there has been no conclusive proof.
For example, in 1941 the USS Proteus departed from St. Thomas in the Virgin Islands with a cargo of aluminium ore. It was lost in heavy seas with 58 people on board. The following month, her sister ship USS Nereus departed from the same port carrying the same cargo and was also lost, this time with 61 people on board. According to the US Navy, both losses were due to the ships being old and suffering from corrosion, making them vulnerable to breaking up in heavy seas. However, no bodies or wreckage from either ship were recovered. More strangely, these vessels were also sister ships to USS Cyclops, a ship that had disappeared in the same area in 1919 with 306 crew and passengers on board.
Aircraft have also disappeared in mysterious circumstances. Flight 19 was a group of five torpedo bombers
UnitedStates ofAmerica
Gulf of Mexico
that disappeared over the Bermuda Triangle in 1945 during a training flight from Florida. All 14 airmen on the flight were lost, as were all 13 crew members of a search and rescue aircraft sent out to look for them.
An investigation concluded that the Flight 19 airmen may have become disoriented and ditched in rough seas after running out of fuel, whilst the search and rescue aircraft may have exploded in mid-air due to a fuel leak. However, because no wreckage was recovered, nothing could be proved.
Most of the official inquiries into disappearances inside the Bermuda Triangle have blamed either bad weather or human mistakes as the likely causes, although there is not much evidence to back up these conclusions. Other unofficial investigators have come up with some rather different possibilities. Sea monsters were blamed for some of the early disappearances in the 1800s. Some writers have suggested that crews were kidnapped to become slaves by the inhabitants of the lost underwater city of Atlantis, whilst others point to alien abduction. However, the facts also support a scientific explanation.
Methane hydrate is a solid compound that consists of a methane molecule (methane is the main part of natural gas and is used every day for heating and cooking) trapped inside a cage of joined up water molecules. It is made through a combination of low temperature and high pressure, and looks like packed snow or ice. However, unlike normal ice, under the right pressure, it can exist at temperatures significantly warmer than the freezing point of water.
By lowering the pressure or raising the temperature, the hydrate will melt, producing the chemical methane and water. Methane burns, so it is possible to set fire to it as the hydrate melts, which is why it is also called fire ice or burning ice.
Underground, methane is produced naturally. Deep down, where the temperature and pressure are higher, it is produced by chemical reactions. In some places, this methane can then migrate upwards through small cracks in the rocks until it reaches the surface. Under the right conditions, methane hydrate can then form.
The right combinations of pressure and temperature can typically be found in places where it is cold and the pressure is provided by the weight of layers of rock or deep under water, where the pressure is provided by the water above. Around the world, hydrate can be found in environments which are close to the surface of the water.
Natural deposits of methane hydrate have been discovered in huge amounts all over the world, including in the Bermuda Triangle.
So what does this have to do with missing ships and aeroplanes?
The Bermuda Triangle is prone to regular small earthquakes. Because the seafloor is not flat, these tremors can cause underwater landslides. If the rock on top of a hydrate deposit slips off, this reduces the pressure on it and it can start to melt. This would then release the methane as gas, which would bubble up through the water. Large amounts of gas bubbles reaching the surface of the sea could cause a ship to sink. If the gas cloud then found an ignition source, such as lightning in a thunderstorm, it would then catch fire, causing a fireball that could destroy ships and aircraft in its path. So could methane hydrate be a possible explanation for some of the disappearances?
There is another area that is similar to the Bermuda Triangle. Located in the Pacific Ocean, south of Japan, the Dragon’s Triangle has also seen many disappearances over the years. Methane hydrate deposits have been found there too, and Japan also regularly suffers from earthquakes. Melting methane hydrate might not be the right explanation for all of the mysterious disappearances of ships and aircraft over the ocean, but it seems more likely than Atlantis or giant sea monsters.
SUT Perth
SUT-Perth celebrates 20 years in operation!
This year SUT-Perth Branch celebrates its 20th anniversary. For two decades, the Society for Underwater Technology - Perth Branch has been at the forefront of promoting knowledge-sharing and collaboration within the subsea community. This milestone is a testament to the dedication and passion of our members past and present. We thank you all for your unwavering support and look forward to continued success and growth.
Share your SUT Perth memories with us!
We will be together a slideshow for the SUT-Perth Annual Dinner in November and would love to include your memorable moments!
If you have any photos from the past 20 years that you’d like to share with us, please email them to perthmarketing@sut.org with the event name(s) and the year/date the photo(s) were taken.
Richard Jardine, Fellow of the Royal Society
Professor Richard Jardine is a College Proconsul and Professor of Geomechanics in Civil and Environmental Engineering. His work focuses on the behaviour of geomaterials, and its application in issues including transport and urban infrastructure, the impact of climate change in cold regions, flood defences on difficult ground and, especially, marine geotechnics. His recent research has focused on achieving reliable and economical foundations for large new offshore wind farms developed in the North and Baltic Seas, the Taiwan Strait and offshore Japan.
Professor Jardine is also Fellow of the UK’s Institution of Civil Engineers, the Royal Academy of Engineering and the City and Guilds Institute.
Professor Jardine said: “It is very rewarding that our work has been recognised by the Royal Society in this way. Of course, much of the credit for this great honour is due to the wonderful, students, technicians and academic colleagues with whom I have worked over my four decades at Imperial”.
Donald R. Schlater Honored with SPE Legion of Honor Award for 50 Years of Industry Service
Donald R Schlater PE, SUT Fellow, Founding member of SUT Houston Was presented the Society for Petroleum Engineers Legion of Honor Award To recognize 50 years of service to the industry. Over this time, he worked in all phases of the energy business. He developed numerous training courses and taught in many of them. He was active in the development of both International and US industry standards. He received his BS and MS in Mechanical Engineering from Tulane university.
Celebrating Kerry J. Campbell’s Exemplary Achievement at OTC 2024
written by Mariana Diaz, SUT-US Houston, TX
It is with great pride and admiration that we congratulate Kerry Campbell for receiving the Distinguished Achievement Award for Individuals at OTC 2024. OTC selects only one individual and one corporation for the prestigious achievement awards each year.
Campbell’s journey is one marked by dedication, expertise, and commitment to pushing the boundaries of what is possible. Throughout his career, he has demonstrated vision, leadership, and technical expertise, helping shape the landscape of geoscience in offshore site investigation and geohazards analysis.
Kerry J. Campbell has been a prominent figure in the OTC technical program, serving on the OTC’s MTS program subcommittee, and organizing and co-chairing several OTC technical sessions. He has authored or coauthored seventeen OTC papers, beginning with his first in 1982. In 2018, he received the American Society of Civil Engineers (ASCE) OTC Hall of Fame Award for his 1988 paper, “The Importance of Integrated Studies to Deepwater Site Investigation.”
Before retiring from Fugro in 2020, Mr. Campbell helped to pioneer the use of 3-D marine seismic data for geoscience applications. He advanced the use of 3-D exploration seismic data for preliminary regional characterization and field development screening, as well as AUV ultra-high-resolution 3-D seismic data for detailed fault characterization and geohazard assessment at proposed suction anchor sites. Mr. Campbell is widely recognized as a leading expert in site-survey design and the interpretation of marine high-resolution seismic data for geohazards assessment, site selection, and foundation design.
At SUT-US, Kerry has spoken at conferences since the 1980s, he was a founding member of the SUTUS OSIG Committee and remains active in organizing SUT-US learning events. Kerry’s recognition is richly deserved and all at SUT-US congratulate him!
Congratulations, Kerry, on this well-deserved recognition. May your legacy continue to inspire future generations and illuminate the path towards a brighter, more innovative future for the offshore energy industry.
Luz Zarate: A Beacon of Leadership at OTC 2024
written by Mariana Diaz, SUT-US Houston, TX
In the dynamic landscape of the oil and gas industry, leadership isn’t just about guiding teams; it’s about igniting vision, fostering growth, and embodying resilience. Today, we gather to honor an individual whose steady dedication, innovative spirit, and exceptional leadership have not only distinguished her but has also inspired those around her.
Luz Zarate, with her remarkable competency, has emerged as a beacon of leadership, earning the esteemed Emerging Leader Class Award at the OTC 2024. Her journey embodies the essence of leadership— marked by passion, perseverance, and a commitment to excellence.
Luz is a Marine Technology Research Engineer with Shell, focused on screening and identifying marine renewable technologies with the potential of becoming economically viable and seeking innovative Metocean approaches to support the business. Before joining Shell, Luz was a Metocean consultant with RPS, where she held technical, commercial, and digital solution-delivery responsibilities. She has experience in the software development life cycle, design thinking, and client and stakeholder management. In addition, Luz led innovation initiatives and helped RPS transform into a technology-enabled consultancy. Her product portfolio focused on data and artificial intelligence, visualization and mapping, and digital twins. While at RPS, Luz supported Shell’s Metocean program in the Gulf of Mexico. Her responsibilities included Metocean data processing, analysis, real-time monitoring, and regulatory compliance.
Luz is a Certified Scrum Product Owner with an MS in Physical Oceanography (Texas A&M, College Station) and a BE in Geophysics (UNAM, Mexico City).
Throughout her career, Luz has demonstrated an unparalleled ability to navigate challenges with grace and determination. But, beyond her professional achievements, Luz’s leadership extends far deeper. She fosters an inclusive environment where every voice is heard and valued, cultivating a culture of collaboration and innovation. She has been the SUT-US Chair for the Women in Industry Task Force, and she is a member of our Mentoring program. Her guidance and leadership have empowered countless individuals to realize their full potential and embrace their unique strengths.
As we celebrate Luz’s extraordinary accomplishments, let us not only applaud her achievements but also recognize the ripple effect of her leadership. She is not just a leader; she is a catalyst for positive change, inspiring others to reach greater heights and redefine what’s possible.
Congratulations, Luz Zarate, on receiving the Emerging Leader Class Award at OTC 2024. Your leadership is not only shaping the future of our industry but also lighting the way for generations to come.
SUT Subsea Awareness Course, Aberdeen
SUT Training Course | 5-9 May 2024 | Aberdeen | written by
Cheryl Burgess
The quarterly Aberdeen Subsea Awareness Course (SAC) took place in the first week of June at the Palm Court Hotel bringing together an international group of delegates (from five countries) whose experience ranged trainees and graduate engineers, to those with established careers across an array of underwater and subsea disciplines.
The course programme was kicked off by Paul Benstead providing the course overview and a history of the subsea sector and activities. Talking through a two-millennium timeline, Paul was able to surprise, delight and inform the delegates from the earliest recorded underwater examples of diving, pipelines, submarines and more before getting to the twentieth century, PLUTO and meeting the present of offshore renewables and the energy transition.
The classroom-based modules were comprehensive over the five days and the addition of site visits in Aberdeen and Montrose augmented the programme with hands-on and up close technical presentations and tours at Baker Hughes, Trees and Wellheads, Fugro – ROVs and Interventions, OneSubsea – Control Systems, Umbilicals and Distribution Systems, and finishing the course at the National Decommissioning
A Morning of Pipelines, and ROVs at Fugro
A visit to Baker Hughes with Paul Benstead and Tony Storey
A visit to the DecommissioningNationalCentre
Centre with offshore wind, marine renewables, decommissioning, salvage and the shape of the future.
Our corporate hosts of the site visits provided both formal presentations as well as insights during the tours on manufacturing, installations, and enabling the course delegates to try their hand at ROV pilot controls, see stages of assembly and testing. Our thanks for your support of the SUT and this training course.
A huge thank you to our 17 presenters from 15 companies, we are so grateful to you for sharing your wealth of knowledge, experience and the time you have given in engaging with and delivery of the course and the delegates.
Having spent the majority of my career in the subsea sector, I found the course a learning opportunity personally and professionally as did our delegates. Aberdeen looks forward to welcoming the next SAC delegates in the September and November courses later this year. Some places still remain, so don’t wait to sign up! To quote Fergus Penny, trainee engineer, Well-Safe Solutions, and delegate on the June course, ‘You can’t put a price on education.’
Subsea Awareness Course Delegates at One Subsea
Pipelines, Fugro A visit to Baker Hughes One Subsea
A big thank you to our corporate hosts who gave us fantastic site visits!
SUT Training
An Introduction to Offshore Geophysics & Geotechnical Engineering
SUT Training Course | 21-22 May 2024 | Southampton | written by
Francesca Ciavaglia
On May 21st and 22nd, the University of Southampton hosted a successful two-day introductory course on offshore geophysics and geotechnics. The course comprised morning lectures held by industry experts followed by practical activities. This year, the emphasis was primarily on offshore wind, aligning with current society needs.
After morning lectures on the first day, participants used computer exercises incorporating bathymetry, geophysical, and geotechnical data to tackle seabed engineering challenges. The second day featured a range of activities at the University of Southampton National Infrastructure Laboratory, including soil testing, core logging, AUV-based seabed mapping, centrifuge modelling, a CPT truck visit, and immersive experiences in virtual reality showcasing maritime archaeology.
Forty industry delegates, primarily from the offshore renewables sector, attended the course representing consultants, contractors, and operators. Throughout the two days, in addition to attending lectures and participating in activities, delegates enjoyed some dedicated time for networking sessions that provided opportunity to connect, exchange ideas, and build professional relationships.
We would like to thank all the speakers for their time and contribution to knowledge sharing: Lone Krogh (Orsted), Dei Huws (Bangor
University), Andrew Mason (Fugro), Alistair Robertshaw (BP), Katie Cross (ERM), Michael Walsh (Coracle Archaeology), Helen Dingle (ARUP), Roi Santos (Orsted), Richard Metters (GARDLINE), Helena Dias and Taeheon Kim (NGI), Andrew Hart (Atkins Realis) and Jennie Morgan (Seaway7).
Thanks to Fugro who supplied a cone penetration testing truck from their Wallingford headquarters, with Ian Batt providing tours of this equipment.
The continued success of this course over several years, owes much to the invaluable support of Professor Justin Dix, Professor David White, and their colleagues from the University of Southampton and the National Oceanography Centre. We extend our thanks to Stephanie Blankshein, Eray Caceoglu, Susan Gourvenec, Faten Ibrahim, Katherine Kwa, Suzie Maclachlan, Amin Mehrabadi, Jorge Mendoza, Madhu Murthy, Felix Pedrotti, Sam Simmons and Kai Wen for their outstanding contributions.
We look forward to running this course again next year!
A big thank you to our course organisers - Francesca Ciavaglia, LR; David White, University of Southampton; Justin Dix, University of Southampton; Simona Caruso, BP; Andrew Benson, AtkinsRealis.
Illuminating the Unknown The Making of the RMS
One year after Magellan’s public release of this incredible expedition, we shed some light on the
Voyis, a leading provider of advanced underwater imaging systems in Waterloo, Canada, joined forces with subsea technology partners Sonardyne and EIVA to provide sensor systems to Magellan for their groundbreaking survey that captured the first complete Digital Twin of the RMS Titanic wreck site. This collaborative effort has resulted in an extraordinary scaled digital twin of the entire bow and stern of the famous wreck, along with the surrounding debris field, enabling researchers and scientists to start to re-explore the vessel with the greatest level of detail ever recorded. This 3D model showcases the site as if the ocean had been drained away, offering a snapshot in time of this iconic historical asset before it degrades beyond recognition (Magellan Digital Twin). The survey was completely non-intrusive thanks to Magellan’s deep water survey expertise, inhouse cameras systems, proven mapping equipment and Voyis’ long range optical systems. This offered a sustainable way to further understand the conditions of the Titanic without compromising the wreck or surrounding ecosystem.
The Titanic, resting at a depth of approximately 3,800 meters (12,500 feet) in the Atlantic Ocean off the coast of Newfoundland, Canada, has long been a subject of fascination and mystery since its tragic sinking in 1912. The aim of this ambitious project was to shed new light on the circumstances surrounding the disaster and utilize cutting-edge underwater optical technology to record the current state of this iconic wreck.
In summer 2022, Magellan Ltd, a leading deep-sea mapping and survey company, was provided with Voyis’ underwater imaging sensors to complement their own systems and conduct the extensive optical survey.
Voyis’ Observer Subsea Cameras and Nova LEDs Illuminate Every Aspect of the Wreck Voyis provided its state-of-the-art Observer & Nova subsea imaging system in support of this endeavour. With
an actively cooled high-dynamic range camera and more than ½ million lumens of flash lighting, this setup enabled the best possible colour images of the wreck. Over 700,000 images were reliably captured during the multi-day survey of the region, recording millimetric details of every aspect of the site. At 3,800m below the sea, the Observer Pro delivered clear, accurate images that were automatically corrected for both colour & lighting. This delivered the image quality and consistency needed to produce Magellan’s seamless Digital Twin that you see today. This resolution and colour accuracy, powered by Voyis’ proprietary True Colour correction, has never been deployed on a wreck of this size, and was key in removing the blue and green hues that are typical in subsea optical survey. This precise visual data formed the foundation for generating the comprehensive 3D model of the entire ship, an immense processing undertaking by Magellan. Voyis is now able to release some of the colour corrected original images in full resolution.
In addition to the Observer & Nova, Magellan also trialled a Voyis Insight Pro laser system to scan the wreck and debris field. The Insight Pro underwater laser scanner may provide researchers with the quantitative capability to directly measure even the smallest features. The laser model can complement the image-based Digital Twin to help further understand the rate of degradation of the historic site and measure the profile and scour on the feature-limited seabed. Voyis is also sharing limited exports from the laser model.
Critical Support from Covelya Group: Sonardyne and EIVA
Delivering fantastic images and an accurate 3D model requires more than great cameras, and trail laser scanners. Precise and accurate positioning throughout the survey is essential to ensure that complete coverage is achieved and to provide an accurate flight path for 3D model processing. As a renowned provider of innovative underwater positioning and navigation technologies, Sonardyne supplied Long BaseLine (LBL) equipment and an acoustically aided SPRINT-Nav Hybrid Navigator. Sonardyne and Magellan have worked extensively together to develop and refine these systems since Magellan invested in SPRINT-Nav across its fleet of 6k rated work class ROVs, with the result that the advanced INS/DVL/LBL technology ensured
Figure 1: Image captured with Voyis Observer & Nova subsea imaging system. Reproduced with kind permission from Magellan.
RMS Titanic Digital Twin
the making of the RMS Titanic Digital Twin.
reliable and robust subsea navigation in the challenging operating conditions at the Titanic site.
Also critical to mission success is real-time feedback to the surveyors at the surface, and here EIVA, a sister company to Voyis and Sonardyne, contributed its advanced navigation and survey software capabilities to the project. EIVA’s NaviSuite software solutions facilitated the efficient collection and visualization of the vast amount of image and navigation data collected during the survey.
Unveiling New Insights into the Titanic’s History
This sensor package offered to Magellan’s project by Voyis, Sonardyne, and EIVA represents a significant milestone in underwater innovation. Magellan’s unprecedented reconstruction of the Titanic has demonstrated the ability to generate incredibly accurate models of our oceans,
allowing us all to see the depths like we see the surface. It is Voyis’ hope that this new technology will drive evidence-based research and a deeper understanding of not only this historic tragedy but offer tools to future explorers that unlock more of the ocean’s secrets without the need to disturb the environment. The findings from this project have the potential to reshape our knowledge of the Titanic’s sinking, bringing us closer to solving the lingering questions surrounding the event.
As leaders in their respective fields in underwater technology, Voyis, Sonardyne, and EIVA remain committed to pushing the boundaries of subsea exploration by advancing the sensors that make it all possible. By combining their technology with Magellan’s experience, deep water capability, assets and Intellectual Property, these companies have together achieved a significant milestone in underwater archaeology and ocean exploration.
Fugro Takes Home Two Awards for Groundbreaking Technologies at OTC
Fugro emerged a big winner at the Offshore Technology Conference (OTC) in Houston this May, securing not one, but two prestigious Spotlight on New Technology Awards. With a focus on delivering safe, efficient, and sustainable solutions for the energy sector, Fugro was recognized for an innovative seafloor drilling system that’s on the way to full commercialization, and a remote subsea inspection solution that’s been proven in Australia, Europe, and the Middle East.
A quick overview of the award-winning technologies follow:
• Fugro Blue Dragon®: Currently in final development and testing, Fugro’s next-generation seafloor drill sets a new industry standard for geotechnical seabed characterization. This modular and highly automated system tackles diverse water depths and terrains with ease, seamlessly performing in-situ testing, soil sampling, and rock coring in a single dive. By reducing vessel size and crew requirements, the Blue Dragon® contributes to environmental sustainability while automation elevates standards of health and safety both on deck and subsea thanks to integrated robotic pipe, tool and handling.
• Remote subsea inspection solution: Fugro has developed the world’s first subsea inspection solution that can launch and recover a remotely operated vehicle (ROV) from a multipurpose uncrewed surface vessel (USV), performing seabed mapping and inspection work from one platform. Comprising Fugro’s Blue Volta® eROV and Blue Essence® USV technologies, the uncrewed approach moves personnel from the offshore environment to the safety of onshore remote operations centers and reduces the carbon footprint of ROV inspections by up to 95%.
“It was an honor to accept these awards alongside my Fugro colleagues, who are responsible for developing and implementing this cutting-edge technology,” said Céline Gerson, Fugro’s President and Group Director in the Americas. “While recognizing innovation and its impact is essential, it’s the people behind these advancements who truly make them possible. Industry awards like the OTC Spotlight on New Technology shine a light on the individuals and teams who are leading the energy sector towards a safer, more sustainable future.”
Gerson participated in an Executive Dialogue session during OTC that echoed this theme of people and technology. Moderated by OTC board member Jamie Allan, the “Beyond the Barrel” discussion focused on Fugro’s own experience to show how companies rooted in the oil and gas sector are wellsuited to lead the energy transition. Their existing transferable technologies and experienced staff position them perfectly to tackle the complex challenges of renewable energy development.
Fugro’s Blue Dragon® and remote subsea inspection solution demonstrate this potential, showcasing how market agnostic innovation can bridge the gap between traditional and renewable energy sectors — critical to accelerating the energy transition.
Main image: Fugro Blue Essence® and Fugro Blue Volta® in the North Sea
Fugro Blue Dragon®
Fugro at the awards ceremony
Extending Subsea Asset Life using Data Intelligence with Viper Innovations
Global subsea experts, Viper Innovations, are excited to announce their and V-LIM2. These cutting-edge technologies use data and tech-driven whilst providing invaluable insights for effective asset management.
How data has become an enabler and a predictor for asset managers
First on Viper’s development roadmap has been creating an ecosystem that captures and transforms data into actionable insight and, ultimately, into a predictive operating and maintenance tool for operators and asset managers.
Insulation resistance (IR) in electrical system cables is the subsea equivalent of the canary down a mine – it warns of problems and possible electrical system failure. When IR is fluctuating, and in the real world it is constantly changing, what does this mean for operators?
A statutory requirement for monitoring the types of electrical systems used subsea, most existing, integrity, or line insulation monitors (LIMs) simply show when IR changes. This has been a useful indicator used in the industry for decades. If the LIM’s IR reading shows a significant loss of integrity, an operator probably has time to act, make repairs or replace the umbilical, electrical flying lead, or other system components. Do this before the cable fails and causes a loss of production and an expensive subsea intervention. This basic yet valuable functionality is the first half of the challenge, but it is largely reactive. What if deeper insights were possible? What if almost undetectable patterns in the voltage, capacitance and IR revealed the nature of the fault so it could be resolved much earlier? This would enable asset owners to make more accurate strategic maintenance and capital expenditure plans.
Data as a Service (DaaS) for subsea asset management – PlatformVi
Viper Innovation’s PlatformVi does just that, with several additional steps. Having operated LIMs for a decade, across oil and gas, rail and industrial, Viper Innovations has accumulated huge volumes of electrical measurement data that is correlated with events and actual performance.
Suddenly, the LIM that has existed for many years monitoring IR could be transformed into a core element of a DaaS platform. Add data extraction, analysis tools using machine learning, usercentred design to identify relevant insights, and you have data-driven decision making for areas such as:
• Proactive and predictive maintenance
• Enhanced safety, by predicting and indicating potential and developing issues
• Operational efficiency
• Equipment service life extensions
• Quality control
Data and Tech-Driven Transformational
their latest tech developments coming soon this year, PlatformVi tech-driven transformational intelligence to extend subsea asset life management.
V-LIM2 evolved: the fusion of data and technology
The humble LIM has also evolved. Viper’s technology roadmap includes evolving their existing line insulation monitoring technology, V-LIM, into V-LIM2. The evolved V-LIM2 does everything V-LIM currently does and includes genuinely exciting new features that provide multiple benefits to operators and asset owners.
Firstly, like the V-LIM, this evolved technology is PlatformVi compatible, so as soon as an installation goes live, users can benefit from everything that PlatformVi contributes.
It is also easy to upgrade existing V-LIM and other IMD installations to V-LIM2. Being connected to PlatformVi means intuitive and easy configuration, regular firmware upgrade notifications and real-time remote monitoring, with the operator always in complete control.
Enhanced IR, IC and power monitoring capabilities
There are several other upgrades in Viper’s roadmap, such as expanding the IR monitoring range to 10GΩ, IC to 500uF, and enhanced line power monitoring capabilities through reliable measurement of line voltage, current and frequency. Some of these features are unique and incredibly powerful, enabling asset managers and operators to proactively manage their subsea electrical systems to minimise downtime and optimise performance and output.
If you can’t contain your excitement and want to know more now, click to visit the New Tech page on Viper’s website or email enquiries@viperinnovations.com for more information on how you can almost predict the future using our advanced data and subsea products.
Rovco selected for survey work on one wind projects, Outer Dowsing
Rovco has been selected by TotalEnergies, Corio Generation, and Gulf Energy Developments carry out a geophysical investigation to support environmental stewardship and
Rovco, a leading UK-based provider of tech-powered offshore wind solutions, has been selected for site characterisation work on the Outer Dowsing Offshore Wind project in the southern North Sea. The project is a joint venture between TotalEnergies, Corio Generation (a portfolio company of Macquarie Asset Management operating on a standalone basis), and Gulf Energy Development. With a planned installed capacity of 1.5GW, it will be one of the UK’s largest offshore wind farms upon completion.
With the project scheduled to commence imminently, Rovco will be responsible for carrying out a full geophysical investigation of several key sites at Outer Dowsing Offshore Wind off the Lincolnshire coast. This will involve mapping both the seabed & sub-seabed conditions to identify hazards that may affect the future installation of wind turbines & subsea cables.
Rovco will also conduct benthic environmental surveys of the site, helping to better understand and minimise any disruption to local wildlife.
The work will be carried out by one of Rovco’s dedicated survey vessels, Glomar Supporter, which is permanently mobilised with the latest survey technology, providing a state-of-the-art survey solution. With a USV (unmanned surface vessel) onboard, it is equipped to deliver simultaneous data collection with instant upload to the vessel. This enables rapid processing of the data gathered and accelerates overall project timelines. The vessel also has a work class ROV for concurrent inspection activities.
The project highlights the rapid growth of Rovco’s marine characterisation business, which launched in 2023 and provides a ‘one-stop-shop’ for site characterisations. Since its launch, Rovco has completed several projects, including the Cenos floating offshore windfarm in the second half of last year, consistently delivering work efficiently and cost-effectively.
Outer Dowsing Offshore Wind Survey Manager, Luis McArthur, said, “This work will be key to ensuring we design the Outer Dowsing Offshore Wind farm to the highest standards and with strong environmental stewardship. As we progress our engineering work, we aim to bolster the UK skill-base and supply chain, which will in turn help the UK reach net zero. We look forward to working with Rovco to add 1.5 GW of renewable power to the UK power mix, reducing emissions and improving UK energy security.”
Craig Davis, Director of Site Characterisation at Rovco added: “The Outer Dowsing project is a significant milestone for our site characterisation business. Placing environmental stewardship at the heart of projects is a core value we share with our partners, and we look forward to working together on this project. The industry has an urgent need for complete survey solutions that can support and accelerate the development of offshore wind, and we’re proud to be redefining the standard for high-quality survey work.”
Graham Bell, Head of Geoscience at Rovco said: “We’re thrilled to have been chosen as a partner to conduct this vital survey work at of one of the UK’s largest offshore wind projects. Survey work has a critical role to play in accelerating the deployment of offshore wind. We’re pleased to be supporting our partners in realising their ambitions for both environmental stewardship and for the future development of Outer Dowsing.”
one of UK’s largest offshore
Developments to survey key sites at Outer Dowsing Offshore Wind. Rovco will and map the seafloor to support future installations.
About Rovco
Founded in 2016, Rovco is a high-tech offshore wind business helping to bring renewable energy to the forefront of the energy mix. The same capability is used to fulfil the world’s drive to clean up and decommission older infrastructure. The company focuses on the development and use of novel perception, data, and autonomy technology to bring the offshore industry into the twenty-first century, helping to further the growth of renewable energy in the marine space. For more information, visit www.rovco.com.
Havfram awarded contract by Iberdrola for Windanker project
Havfram has signed a contract with Iberdrola for the installation of 21 Siemens Gamesa wind turbines at their Windanker project in the Baltic Sea. The agreement covers transport and installation support, which will be executed by one of Havfram’s newbuild NG20000X-HF wind turbine installation vessels. The contract will start in the summer of 2026 and makes a perfect fit towards high utilization for the vessel planned to be used. Windanker, located in the German Baltic Sea, will reach an installed capacity of 315 MW after its commissioning in 2026. Most of the renewable electricity generated by the new Siemens Gamesa 15 MW turbines will be commercialized through long-term Power Purchase Agreements (PPA) on the German market. Even Larsen, CEO of Havfram Wind, commented: “Iberdrola is one of the most experienced developers in the market and has demonstrated a strong commitment to renewable energy solutions. Currently, they have 1,793 MW offshore wind capacity in operation and a further 3,000 MW under construction. Havfram is proud to be supporting Iberdrola’s ambitions within offshore wind and their efforts to mitigate climate change.”
Martin Degen, Commercial Director and Vice President of Havfram, described the relationship as follows: “The entire procurement process with Iberdrola was pragmatic and uncomplicated as both organizations share rigorous standards for quality and sustainability. To be selected as T&I partner for Windanker, Iberdrola’s third Baltic Sea project, proves our established position in the market and that we, at Havfram, are trusted to carry out installations in the crucial end phase before the wind farm goes into operation. The project adds to our strong and growing contract backlog.”
CONSUB Unveils Strategic Restructuring into “ Three Pillars” to Navigate the Energy Transition
In a move which navigates the transitioning landscape of the offshore energy sector, subsea engineering and project management consultancy, CONSUB has announced a strategic restructuring plan: dividing its operations into three distinct pillars: Oil & Gas, Decommissioning and Renewables.
The Oil & Gas pillar, headed up by company CoFounder and Director Paul Melnikov, with over 35 years’ experience in oil and gas, continues to uphold CONSUB’s legacy of excellence providing engineering and project management services to UK and international deepwater development projects while also providing niche field services on seized valves on topsides and onshore facilities.
The Decommissioning pillar, headed up by Business Manager Jon Taylor, with over 40 years’ experience in the industry, reflects CONSUB’s proactive stance towards addressing the challenges associated with ageing infrastructure, late life management and asset retirement. By offering comprehensive decommissioning services, CONSUB can facilitate the safe and sustainable removal of obsolete energy installations.
The Renewables pillar will be headed up by Malcolm Blackmore, Director at CONSUB with more than 35 years’ experience in engineering and project management within the offshore construction industry. Day-to-day running will be led by Douglas Hall, a marine geoscientist with over 20 years’ experience of marine hydrographic, geophysical, and geotechnical survey, who is also Group Survey Manager at CONSUB.
As CONSUB charts a course towards a more sustainable future, the unveiling of its Three Pillars represents a significant milestone in the company’s journey towards shaping the energy landscape of the future.
By leveraging its extensive experience in subsea oil & gas engineering and construction, along with the formation of new strategic partnerships, CONSUB will play an increasing role in accelerating the transition towards renewable energy sources, including offshore and onshore wind, floating solar and green hydrogen.
For more information, please visit consub.com
Project Lightning – HVDC Systems for Offshore Power in the MENA Region
SUT Middle East | 14 May 2024 | Abu Dhabi
With the Energy Transition serving as a primary driver, the world’s complex energy landscape is changing rapidly to support the acceleration towards Net Zero by 2050. The generation and effective utilization of clean energy sources along with the decarbonization of operations form a key element of this global transition. The SUT was pleased to bring together a program of key industry players to outline the role that HVDC electrical systems play in offshore operations, using Project Lightning as a case study for using an HVDC system in the MENA Region.
120 people came from the offshore industry including ADNOC and their major tier 1 EPC contractors as well as the industry supply chain. We were also pleased to welcome over 20 electrical engineering students for KU and academic staff and were generously hosted by Khalifa University’s Research and Innovation Center on CO2 and Hydrogen (RICH).
Thank you to all who joined SUT at Khalifa University in Abu Dhabi showcasing the decisions behind the use of HVDC and the BOOT scheme for the groundbreaking ProjectLightning, which is reshaping the offshore power sector.
A big thank you to our sponsors Khalifa University ADNOC Group Prysmian Jan De Nul Group Hitachi Energy and speakers Steve Goddard, Sara Al Awadhi, Enguerrand Ducene, Ola Ekström, John Mackenzie, Kevin Feyaerts, Lourdes Vega, and Hemachandran S.
Events Reports
Records smashed at All-Energy
Mid-May saw the attendance record at the UK’s largest renewable and low carbon exhibition and conference All-Energy, and the co-located Dcarbonise 2024, at Glasgow’s SEC, smashed by a staggering 21%.
“In 2023 we had total attendance of 9,706 – a new record, but this year, on 15 and 16 May, that was well and truly beaten by the close of play figure of 11,736,” explained Jonathan Heastie, Portfolio Director at RX Global, who own and organise the duo of events. “Before the show had opened we were well on target for a new record, but never in our wildest dreams did we expect a 21% increase over last year’s figure. It’s a testament to both the growth in the industry and how the combined event is valued by those who benefit from participating.” This year registrations came from 80 countries. SUT is proud to be the Learned Society Patron of All-Energy.
“The increase in attendance was reflected by packed aisles, conference halls and show floor theatres (between them they boasted over 600 speakers during the two days) and smiles and congratulations in plenty from our 270 exhibiting organisations, many of whom have already rebooked for 2025’s silver anniversary event being held at SEC on 14 and 15 May 2025. Exhibitors came from all over the UK and thirteen other countries.
We have often referred to the show as ‘busy and buzzing’ something about which Cheryl Burgess, SUT’s CEO can attest from her viewpoint at the SUT’s stand. This year the sense of business being done, and the incredible buzz outclassed anything heard in the show’s 24-year history. The world class conference programme with stellar line-ups in 57 sessions looking at policy, ambitions, challenges, opportunities and innovative solutions across renewable power, low
Professor Deborah Greaves at the lectern before a packed room
A busy show floor
All-Energy and Dcarbonise 2024
Scotland’s Cabinet Secretary for
meets Tim
carbon heat and low carbon transport is undoubtedly one of the industry’s biggest free-ofcharge conferences seen anywhere in the world, something we are hugely proud to deliver.
The main conference saw some 8,601 badges scanned at entrances to conference halls and rooms, and a further 4,831 at the entrances to the eight show floor theatres (making a grand total of 13,432).
SUT members will be particularly interested to hear that 1,861 badges were scanned for six offshore windrelated sessions in the main conference and the one-day show floor theatre programme; 603 for three marine renewables sessions ‘Where, when and why is the UK leading our ocean energy future’; ‘Accelerating offshore renewables to 2040: Tackling the key challenges’ and ‘Watts in the water in Scotland’; and its day-long show floor theatre programme. For the first time a whole session was also devoted to Tidal Range.
Wave power developers CorPower showcased a quarter scale buoy
The full conference programme is still on the show website at www.all-energy.co.uk/sut to either refresh your memory or convince you that you really should be at next year’s event on 14 and 15 May at Glasgow’s SEC!
written by Judith Patten MBE, Project Director - All-Energy /Dcarbonise
Net Zero and Energy, Màiri McAllan MSP
Hurst, Managing Director of Wave Energy Scotland on her tour of the exhibition after delivering a keynote address
Future Issues
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NEXT issue September 2024
Deadline for submissions - 16th August 2024