Equipment & Technology – August 29, 2008
Damen Dredging Equipment has recently delivered six DOP submersible dredge pumps, Type DOP3530LD to Soil Machine Dynamics in the UK.
The DOP submersible dredge pumps will be integrated in a remotely operated ‘RT-1’ Rock Trencher. The ‘RT-1’ will cut trenches for subsea pipelines at working depths up to 500m.
The ‘RT-1’ is being built by Soil Machine Dynamics for CTC Marine Projects.
Four DOP submersible dredge pumps Type DOP3530LD will be integrated into the ‘RT-1.’ Each hydraulically driven DOP3530LD has a capacity of 2,000m3/hr at 3 bar.
The wear resistant dredge pump is provided with a mechanical shaft seal, which does not require grease nor gland water. The bearing housing has been provided with pressure compensation to enable it to work at depth.
The ‘RT-1’ is designed specifically for trenching pipelines in hard material. Trenching is carried out by three chain cutters, excavating to a depth of 2.5m.
The debris from the bottom of the trench as well as from its side is removed by the DOP pumps, depositing the material at the side of the trench.
The remotely operated ‘RT-1’ first lifts the pipe, cuts the trench, and then lowers the pipe again.
The ‘RT-1’ is due to be delivered at the end of this year and begin work at the beginning of next year.