Project challenges have always provided ASI with the exciting chance to develop and deliver new solutions for our clients. So when the access to underwater conduits was blocked by trash racks, a solution was needed in order to complete the inspection. ASI worked with Cellula Robotics Ltd. (Cellula) to manufacture a new hydraulic cutting tool, specifically designed to cut through trash racks in underwater environments.
The conduits mentioned above were located 600 feet deep in Low Level Outlets (LLOs) at a dam located in Canada. Trash racks were positioned in front, preventing the access needed to complete the inspection. Our commercial divers would typically perform this tactile work. However, due to the depth of the dive and the complexity of the positioning of the bars, it was deemed dangerous for manned intervention. Collaborating with Cellula, a specialized cutting tool was created to work underwater in deep depths. The hydraulic saw was lowered by crane and an ROV was used to maneuver the saw into position. The trash rack bars were removed at each LLO entrance, creating an opening large enough for the ROV to penetrate.
Since then, the hydraulic saw has been used for several other projects in both Canada and the United States. It has been used to aid in underwater inspections and surveys for low-level outlets, intakes and penstocks. The tool has been lowered by crane in up to 800 feet of water depth and it can cut through multiple bars at the same time.
This new cutting tool provides our clients with a safe and economical solution to removing trash racks for repair or decommissioning purposes.
To review a copy of our recent Press Release announcement, click here.
To learn more about this tool and other services provided by ASI, please contact us.
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