Webtool develops subsea pipeline decommissioning tool
CHESHIRE -- Hydraulic subsea tools specialist, Webtool, is developing a Fast Intervention Tool for subsea pipeline decommissioning in conjunction with Chevron Energy Technology Company. The tool will crimp, seal, and cut the pipe reducing the potential for contamination of the marine environment, potentially removing the requirement for a containment dome during pipeline cutting, and minimizing diver intervention.
The Fast Intervention Tool (FIT) is a modular design which combines lifting, crimping, injection and cutting in a single lifting and deployment frame which also contains the hydraulic control system. Webtool has completed FIT conceptual design and in-house development and testing. It is now preparing a working prototype for hyperbaric and sea trials.
“We are delighted to have been awarded the contract to develop Chevron’s Fast Intervention Tool,” says Keith Elliot, managing director, Allspeeds Ltd. “Our design team has considerable experience of working on new product developments for companies tackling demanding applications where hydraulic cutting and gripping is involved.”
