Forum Energy Technologies has completed manufacturing a highly advanced submarine rescue vehicle (SRV) on Jan. 26 including cutting edge technologies, which may be utilized to extract submariners from distress situations.
Forum’s latest SRV joins a small group of rescue systems in use around the globe. The LR-class SRV, however, surpasses systems manufactured by other suppliers over the last decade, including the NSRS (NATO Submarine Rescue System) and the ‘LR7’, which was delivered to China.
The LR-class SRV is built to meet the most up-to-date industry standards and classed by Lloyds Register. It is capable of rescuing up to 17 people at a time and operate at depths of up to 600 m. The new model has increased power and an advanced auxiliary thruster control system that allows for speeds of up to four knots, enabling it to operate in high currents. The vehicle is able to attach to submarines at highly precarious angles, above 40 degrees.
The state-of-the-art submersible vehicle also has some of the most advanced sensors and sonars to locate a distressed submarine as quickly as possible. This includes a doppler velocity log, fiber optic gyroscope, sonar and depth sensing. All sensors and sonar systems are fully embedded into Forum’s software to deliver advanced functionality, including auto depth, auto heading and autopilot. The latter function utilizes an electric propulsor pivot mechanism and is unique to the company’s LR-class SRV.
The LR-Class SRV is divided into two sections, a command module for pilots and a rescue chamber for the submarine crew. The rescue chamber can be pressurized as necessary to ensure rescued crew are decompressed to prevent decompression sickness (the bends). Once at surface, the vessel latches to a decompression chamber where crew are safely transferred.
“We have pioneered the development of manned submersibles since 1975 and have supported military organizations and naval forces all around the globe,” Kevin Taylor, Forum’s vice president of subsea vehicles, said. “The completion of the SRV is a huge achievement for the business and testament to our highly experienced engineering, QHSE, purchasing, planning and production teams. I would like to commend these groups for their hard work to realize our vision for the future of specialized submarine rescue vehicles.”
The first of the latest LR-class SRV is being packaged and shipped to its final destination later this month before undergoing final sea trials with the client during first-quarter 2021.
Recommended Reading
TGS, SLB to Conduct Engagement Phase 5 in GoM
2024-02-05 - TGS and SLB’s seventh program within the joint venture involves the acquisition of 157 Outer Continental Shelf blocks.
StimStixx, Hunting Titan Partner on Well Perforation, Acidizing
2024-02-07 - The strategic partnership between StimStixx Technologies and Hunting Titan will increase well treatments and reduce costs, the companies said.
Forum Energy Signs MOU to Develop Electric ROV Thrusters
2024-03-13 - The electric thrusters for ROV systems will undergo extensive tests by Forum Energy Technologies and SAFEEN Survey & Subsea Services.
Axis Energy Deploys Fully Electric Well Service Rig
2024-03-13 - Axis Energy Services’ EPIC RIG has the ability to run on grid power for reduced emissions and increased fuel flexibility.
TotalEnergies Rolling Out Copilot for Microsoft 365
2024-02-27 - TotalEnergies’ rollout is part of the company’s digital transformation and is intended to help employees solve problems more efficiently.