ROVAR-01 and ROVAR-20

What is ROVAR

• Patented cryogenic ‘ROVAR’ technology (“Remotely Operated Vehicle for Assets Recovery”)
• Variable Buoyancy System which exploits the properties of cryogenics for controlled subsea lifting and handling operations.
• Precise descent and ascent is achieved by vapourising liquid nitrogen to displace seawater from buoyancy caissons
• Key components
  • Liquid Nitrogen dewar
  • Gasification system including actuators and cryogenic valves to provide heat exchange and flow control of gas into the caissons
  • Actuated relief (dump) valves to retain gas within caissons, and to release it from them
  • Primary sensors – depth / pressure gauge, sonar (distance from seabed), load cells
  • Advanced control system – controls flow of gas into and out of caissons which adjusts buoyancy dependent on depth, load, rate of ascent or descent required
  • Data and power umbilical to control console
  • In-built thrusters control lateral motion with standard or bespoke toolsets and grabs for handling

ROVAR is a fully scalable technology and can be adapted to address different lifting and handling challenges subsea. Our standard unitary systems are ROVAR-01 and ROVAR-20 which can also be deployed in multiplex modes for manoeuvring of much heavier or more complex loads requiring multiple lifting points due to shape, uneven load distribution etc.

ROVAR-01 has a 1-Tonne lift capability and can be used for debris and UXO removal from restricted areas. It has a footprint of approximately 2.7m length and 1.1m cross-section. 

ROVAR-20 has a 20-Tonne lift capability and can be used for more substantial offshore handling and recovery as an underwater crane or 'seabed forklift'. It has a footprint of between 4m and 6.6m long with a cross-section of 2.7m.

ROVAR offers:

o Lift repeatability – the inherent design provides capability for repetitive tasks whilst remaining in-situ and minimising support vessel time

o Practical operating depths - down to 2,000 msw