WO2002090667A1 - Appareil et procede permettant de propulser un fluide - Google Patents

Appareil et procede permettant de propulser un fluide Download PDF

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Publication number
WO2002090667A1
WO2002090667A1 PCT/GB2002/002154 GB0202154W WO02090667A1 WO 2002090667 A1 WO2002090667 A1 WO 2002090667A1 GB 0202154 W GB0202154 W GB 0202154W WO 02090667 A1 WO02090667 A1 WO 02090667A1
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WO
WIPO (PCT)
Prior art keywords
fluid
jets
typically
seabed
outlets
Prior art date
Application number
PCT/GB2002/002154
Other languages
English (en)
Inventor
Philip Gwyn Brown
Original Assignee
Progenitive Services Limited
Priority date (The priority date is an assumption and is not a legal conclusion. Google has not performed a legal analysis and makes no representation as to the accuracy of the date listed.)
Filing date
Publication date
Application filed by Progenitive Services Limited filed Critical Progenitive Services Limited
Publication of WO2002090667A1 publication Critical patent/WO2002090667A1/fr

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Classifications

    • E—FIXED CONSTRUCTIONS
    • E02—HYDRAULIC ENGINEERING; FOUNDATIONS; SOIL SHIFTING
    • E02F—DREDGING; SOIL-SHIFTING
    • E02F3/00—Dredgers; Soil-shifting machines
    • E02F3/04—Dredgers; Soil-shifting machines mechanically-driven
    • E02F3/88—Dredgers; Soil-shifting machines mechanically-driven with arrangements acting by a sucking or forcing effect, e.g. suction dredgers
    • E02F3/90—Component parts, e.g. arrangement or adaptation of pumps
    • E02F3/92—Digging elements, e.g. suction heads
    • E02F3/9206—Digging devices using blowing effect only, like jets or propellers
    • E—FIXED CONSTRUCTIONS
    • E02—HYDRAULIC ENGINEERING; FOUNDATIONS; SOIL SHIFTING
    • E02F—DREDGING; SOIL-SHIFTING
    • E02F5/00—Dredgers or soil-shifting machines for special purposes
    • E02F5/02—Dredgers or soil-shifting machines for special purposes for digging trenches or ditches
    • E02F5/10—Dredgers or soil-shifting machines for special purposes for digging trenches or ditches with arrangements for reinforcing trenches or ditches; with arrangements for making or assembling conduits or for laying conduits or cables
    • E02F5/104—Dredgers or soil-shifting machines for special purposes for digging trenches or ditches with arrangements for reinforcing trenches or ditches; with arrangements for making or assembling conduits or for laying conduits or cables for burying conduits or cables in trenches under water
    • E—FIXED CONSTRUCTIONS
    • E02—HYDRAULIC ENGINEERING; FOUNDATIONS; SOIL SHIFTING
    • E02F—DREDGING; SOIL-SHIFTING
    • E02F5/00—Dredgers or soil-shifting machines for special purposes
    • E02F5/02—Dredgers or soil-shifting machines for special purposes for digging trenches or ditches
    • E02F5/10—Dredgers or soil-shifting machines for special purposes for digging trenches or ditches with arrangements for reinforcing trenches or ditches; with arrangements for making or assembling conduits or for laying conduits or cables
    • E02F5/104—Dredgers or soil-shifting machines for special purposes for digging trenches or ditches with arrangements for reinforcing trenches or ditches; with arrangements for making or assembling conduits or for laying conduits or cables for burying conduits or cables in trenches under water
    • E02F5/107—Dredgers or soil-shifting machines for special purposes for digging trenches or ditches with arrangements for reinforcing trenches or ditches; with arrangements for making or assembling conduits or for laying conduits or cables for burying conduits or cables in trenches under water using blowing-effect devices, e.g. jets
    • E—FIXED CONSTRUCTIONS
    • E02—HYDRAULIC ENGINEERING; FOUNDATIONS; SOIL SHIFTING
    • E02F—DREDGING; SOIL-SHIFTING
    • E02F5/00—Dredgers or soil-shifting machines for special purposes
    • E02F5/28—Dredgers or soil-shifting machines for special purposes for cleaning watercourses or other ways
    • E02F5/287—Dredgers or soil-shifting machines for special purposes for cleaning watercourses or other ways with jet nozzles

Definitions

  • the present invention relates to apparatus for and a method of propelling fluid, and particularly, but not exclusively, to apparatus for and a method of underwater displacement of materials, such as the making of glory holes, pipeline pre-sweeping passages and trenches or the like in the seabed, or the displacement of seabed material and features (e.g. ice berg scars, stiff or non-cohesive seabed materials and undulating clay features) .
  • materials such as the making of glory holes, pipeline pre-sweeping passages and trenches or the like in the seabed, or the displacement of seabed material and features (e.g. ice berg scars, stiff or non-cohesive seabed materials and undulating clay features) .
  • a jet apparatus for cutting into a material comprising one or more fluid sources that are coupled to a fluid outlet, wherein at least one jet of fluid from the fluid outlet cuts into the material.
  • the fluid outlet typically comprises a plurality of fluid outlets.
  • fluid jets from the fluid outlets typically cut grooves into the material to assist in breaking it up. This is particularly advantageous where the material is cohesive (e.g. clay) .
  • the fluid outlets are typically flexibly coupled to the apparatus. This has the advantage that the fluid outlets can follow the terrain independently of one another.
  • the fluid outlets are flexibly coupled to the apparatus by flexible conduits .
  • the flexible conduits typically comprise a flexible material.
  • the flexible conduits can comprise a plurality of rigid portions that are pivotally coupled together (e.g. by hinges, ball joints or the like) .
  • the fluid outlets can be flexibly coupled by a substantially rigid conduit may be pivotally coupled to the apparatus (e.g. by a ball joint) and the fluid outlets may be pivotally coupled to the conduit (e.g. by a ball joint) .
  • the fluid outlets can move relative to one another to accommodate undulations and variations in the surface of the material to be cut.
  • Each conduit is typically coupled to adjacent conduit (s) by a flexible member (e.g. a chain or the like) .
  • a flexible member e.g. a chain or the like.
  • the plurality of fluid outlets typically includes a fluid manifold to which the plurality of fluid outlets are attached.
  • the fluid outlets typically comprise a nozzle.
  • the nozzle is preferably weighted.
  • the weight typically comprises a heavy block (e.g. of steel) or the like. It is preferred, but not essential, that the weights remain in permanent or intermittent contact with the material (e.g. seabed material) during operation of the apparatus .
  • the or each fluid outlet typically provides a high pressure, relatively low volume flow of fluid.
  • the high pressure flow of water is typically used to cut into the cohesive material.
  • apparatus for displacing material comprising one or more fluid sources that are coupled to first and second fluid outlets, wherein jets of fluid from the first fluid outlet cut into the material to be displaced, and the second fluid outlet displaces the cut material.
  • the first fluid outlet typically comprises a plurality of fluid outlets.
  • the first fluid outlet typically provides a high pressure, relatively low volume flow of fluid.
  • the second fluid outlet typically provides a low pressure, relatively high volume flow of fluid.
  • the apparatus is typically an underwater apparatus. That is, the apparatus typically operates subsea.
  • the material typically comprises a seabed, lakebed or riverbed.
  • the first fluid outlet typically comprises a plurality of fluid outlets.
  • fluid jets from the first fluid outlets typically cut grooves into the material to assist in breaking it up. This is particularly advantageous where the material is cohesive (e.g. clay).
  • the first fluid outlets are typically flexibly coupled to the apparatus in a similar way as the fluid outlets in the first aspect.
  • Each conduit is typically coupled to adjacent conduit (s) by a flexible member (e.g. a chain or the like) .
  • a flexible member e.g. a chain or the like.
  • the plurality of first fluid outlets typically includes a fluid manifold to which the plurality of first fluid outlets are attached.
  • the first fluid outlets typically comprise a nozzle.
  • the nozzle is preferably weighted.
  • the weight typically comprises a heavy block (e.g. of steel) or the like. It is preferred, but not essential, that the weights remain in permanent or intermittent contact with the material (e.g. seabed material) during operation of the apparatus.
  • the or each first fluid outlet typically provides a high pressure, relatively low volume flow of fluid.
  • the high pressure flow of water is typically used to cut into the cohesive material.
  • the second fluid outlet typically comprises any apparatus that is capable of supplying a relatively high volume flow of water at a relatively low pressure.
  • the second fluid outlet may include a fluid inlet and a fluid outlet, and a propeller rotatably mounted between the fluid inlet and the fluid outlet.
  • High pressure fluid is typically conveyed through one or more blades forming the propeller to exit as one or more jets of water that act on vanes provided on the wall of a housing around the propeller.
  • the reaction force of the jets of water typically causes the propeller to rotate and thus draw fluid from the inlet and expel it out of the outlet.
  • the second fluid outlet typically comprises a fluid inlet and a fluid outlet, a propeller rotatably mounted between the fluid inlet and the fluid outlet for propelling fluid from the fluid inlet to the fluid outlet, a rotor for driving the propeller, and at least one fluid discharge for driving fluid arranged so that driving fluid emitted from the or each fluid discharge rotates the rotor.
  • the driving fluid ejected from the or each discharge typically acts on one or more blades provided on the rotor.
  • the driving fluid typically comprises water (e.g. seawater or fresh water) .
  • the jets of fluid from the first fluid outlets typically cut grooves into the material to break it up, and the fluid from the second outlet typically displaces the material from between the grooves. This can be used where the material is cohesive where fluid from the first outlet generally breaks up the material, and fluid from the second outlet generally disperses or displaces the material that has been broken up, thereby substantially removing or displacing the material.
  • the apparatus typically includes a body.
  • the body typically comprises a metal frame.
  • the fluid manifold is typically coupled to the frame.
  • the second fluid outlet is typically located within the frame.
  • the or each fluid source typically comprises a pump, and optionally an electrical submersible pump. Two pumps are typically used.
  • the or each fluid source is typically coupled to the body, and preferably located within the body.
  • the fluid sources e.g. the pumps
  • the fluid sources typically provide high pressure fluid by taking in fluid surrounding the source and pressurising it. This provides the advantage that the apparatus is more efficient as the pressurised fluid travels a shorter distance.
  • a conduit e.g. a relatively small bore hose
  • one or more pumps provided on the vessel may be used to provide the high pressure fluid. This would generally be used only in relatively shallow waters.
  • the or each fluid source is typically in fluid communication with the first and second fluid outlets via a two- way control valve.
  • the valve When the valve is in a first position, high pressure fluid is typically directed to the first fluid outlet .
  • the valve When the valve is in a second position, the high pressure fluid is typically directed to the second fluid outlet, typically to actuate it.
  • fluid can be directed to one or other of the fluid outlets as required.
  • the control valve may not be required where fluid is ejected from the first and second outlets simultaneously.
  • one or more fluid sources can be used to provide pressurised fluid to the first outlet, and one or more fluid sources can be used to provide pressurised fluid to the second outlet simultaneously.
  • the same fluid source (s) may be used to provide pressurised fluid to both outlets simultaneously.
  • the apparatus is typically suspended underneath a vessel, preferably using an umbilical.
  • an umbilical This provides the advantage that the apparatus can be deployed and retrieved using the umbilical, and also the advantage that electrical power, control and other signals can be carried by the umbilical.
  • the umbilical is preferably kept in constant tension. This allows the apparatus to remain at a substantially constant height above the material in use .
  • the apparatus is typically lowered towards the material to be displaced through a moonpool in the vessel.
  • a first clump weight is typically provided on one side of the vessel, and a second clump weight is typically provided on the other side of the vessel, the clump weights being coupled to the apparatus.
  • the first clump weight is preferably coupled to a first end of the fluid manifold, and the second clump weight is preferably coupled to the other end of the fluid manifold.
  • the clump weights in conjunction with the fluid manifold provide for stabilisation and orientation of the apparatus in use.
  • the first and second clump weights are not essential.
  • the apparatus can be suspended only by the umbilical.
  • the fluid manifold has a tendency to self-orientate itself in a direction that is substantially perpendicular to the direction of movement of the vessel. This is advantageous as the apparatus will orientate itself correctly in use in the absence of any external orientation forces (e.g. those provided by the clump weights) .
  • the width of the fluid manifold typically corresponds to the width of material that is displaced or cut. It follows that the wider the manifold, the greater the number of flexible/rigid conduits that can be coupled thereto and thus the wider the portion of material that can be cut or displaced. This is advantageous as the width of the manifold can be selected to correspond to the width of trench or the like that is to be cut into the material. This can be changed relatively easily to suit the particular application.
  • the apparatus typically includes a surveillance system that is typically capable of providing real- time images of the seabed.
  • the surveillance system can be, for example, a scanning sonar.
  • the sonar is typically coupled to the body, and may be, for example, a SEABATTM sonar system.
  • the apparatus may include lighting systems, a video camera etc.
  • the umbilical may be used to provide power to the systems, cameras etc and also facilitates the transfer of electrical signals.
  • the fluid typically comprises water (e.g. seawater or fresh water from a lake or river) .
  • a method of cutting material comprising the steps of directing one or more jets of fluid at the material.
  • the jets of fluid are typically relatively high- pressure, low volume jets of fluid.
  • the or each jet of fluid is typically in close proximity to the material to be cut, and in certain embodiments, may be in direct contact with the material.
  • a method of displacing material comprising the steps of a) directing one or more first jets of fluid at the material to cut into the material, and b) directing a second jet of fluid at the material to displace it.
  • the or each first jets of fluid are typically in close proximity to the material to be cut, and in certain embodiments, may be in direct contact with the material.
  • the first jets of fluid are typically relatively high-pressure, low volume jets of fluid.
  • the second jet of water is typically a relatively low-pressure, high volume flow of fluid.
  • the method typically includes the additional steps of repeating steps a) and b) until the required amount of material has been displaced.
  • Step a) typically allows grooves to be cut into the material to make it more easy to break up.
  • Step b) typically breaks up the material between the grooves that are cut in a) and also displaces the cut material.
  • the step of directing one or more jets of fluid typically includes actuating one or more fluid sources to provide high pressure fluid.
  • the high- pressure fluid is typically conveyed to a plurality of fluid outlets.
  • the method typically includes the additional step of keeping the fluid outlets in constant or intermittent contact with the material.
  • the step of directing a second jet of fluid typically includes the additional steps of actuating one or more fluid sources to provide high pressure water, and directing the fluid at the material.
  • the method typically includes the additional step of pulling or pushing the plurality of fluid outlets over the material.
  • This step typically involves pulling or pushing a fluid manifold that is in fluid communication with the fluid outlets.
  • the fluid outlets can be coupled via flexible conduits to the manifold.
  • the manifold can be pushed or pulled along the material (i.e. it is in contact with the material) or may be pushed or pulled through the water.
  • the step of directing one or more jets of water at the material typically produces one or more grooves in the material.
  • the step of directing a second jet of water at the material typically breaks up the material and removes or disperses the material between the grooves .
  • Fig. la is a side elevation of an exemplary embodiment of apparatus for displacing seabed material
  • Fig. lb is an enlarged view of a portion of the apparatus of Fig. la
  • Fig. 2 is a front elevation of the apparatus of Fig. 1
  • Fig- 3 is diagrammatic representation of a computer-generated model of seabed material after displacement by a particular embodiment of apparatus for displacing seabed material
  • Fig. 4 is a side elevation of an exemplary embodiment of apparatus that can provide a relatively low pressure, high volume flow of fluid
  • Fig. 5 is a plan view of the apparatus shown in Fig. 4
  • FIG. 6 is a side elevation of an alternative exemplary embodiment of apparatus that can provide a relatively low pressure, high volume flow of fluid
  • Fig. 7 is a plan view of the portion of the apparatus shown in Fig. 6
  • Fig. 8 is a schematic representation of a vessel with the apparatus of Figs 1 and 2 attached thereto in use
  • Fig. 9 is a side elevation of an alternative nozzle for use with the apparatus of Figs 1 and 2.
  • Figs 1 and 2 show an exemplary embodiment of apparatus 10 that can be used to displace seabed material 12.
  • the seabed material 12 is typically cohesive (e.g. clay) in this example, and is thus generally difficult to break up and disperse using conventional methods.
  • apparatus- 10 can be used to displace a wide variety of seabed materials, but is particularly suited for cohesive materials.
  • Apparatus 10 includes a body 14 that is typically a metal frame in the shape of an approximate cube.
  • the frame of the body 14 is typically of metal but can be of any suitable material.
  • the body 14 is shown in the shape of an approximate cube, but it may take other shapes and forms.
  • the body 14 is attached via supporting cables 16 to an umbilical 18 that extends back to a surface vessel 300 (see Fig. 8) .
  • the umbilical 18 is typically rated at 3 megawatts capability or more, but this depends upon the power requirements of the apparatus 10.
  • the surface vessel 300 is typically a deepwater pumping, dynamically positioned (DP) Class II vessel that is preferably provided with heave compensation and/or constant tension capabilities (not shown in Fig. 8) .
  • the vessel 300 is typically also provided with ROV surveying capabilities and at least one moonpool 302 that is typically in the order of 6 metres by 6 metres in size.
  • the size of the moonpool 302 is generally dependent upon the overall size of the apparatus 10.
  • a power supply of around • 3 megawatts is typically provided on the vessel 300, which is also provided with a crane 304.
  • the particular vessel and its capabilities and accessories can be chosen to suit the particular application, and the above are guidelines only.
  • the body 14 houses an apparatus 20 that is typically capable of supplying a high volume of water at a relatively low pressure.
  • apparatus 20 that is typically capable of supplying a high volume of water at a relatively low pressure.
  • Many types of apparatus exist for providing high volumes of water at low flow rates such as those described in GB2289912, EP0289520, GB2302348 and GB297777, and any of these systems can be used.
  • GB2240568 describes an underwater excavation apparatus that can be used as apparatus 20. As the entire disclosure of this document is incorporated herein by reference, a detailed description shall be omitted in the interests of brevity.
  • Apparatus 100 includes a cylindrical housing or tube 102 that is provided with a fluid inlet 104, and a fluid outlet 106.
  • a shaft 108 is rotatably mounted in the housing 102 by an upper bearing assembly 110 and a lower bearing assembly 112.
  • Shaft 108 carries a propeller, generally designated 114, that includes a hub 116 and four radially extending blades 118.
  • An annular ring or sleeve 120 is attached to the tips of the blades 118 and forms an annular gap 122 between the sleeve 120 and an inner surface of the housing 102.
  • An umbilical 124 is coupled to an upper end of the shaft 108 by a high pressure water slip ring 126 that allows the shaft 108 to rotate relative to the umbilical 124.
  • the shaft 108 is provided with a throughbore 128 'that terminates in a manifold 130 in the hub 116, the manifold 130 being in fluid communication with conduits 132 in the blades 118 of the propeller 114.
  • the conduits 132 are angled forwardly in a clockwise direction (see Fig. 5) and terminate in forwardly (i.e. backwards with respect to the direction of rotation of the propeller 114) and outwardly angled jets 134.
  • a plurality of fixed vanes 136 are provided on the inner surface of the housing 102.
  • Water from the jets 134 produces a reaction force on the jets 134 thus causing the propeller 114 to rotate in the direction of arrow A.
  • Rotation of the propeller 114 causes fluid to be drawn in from the fluid inlet 104 through the housing 102 in the direction of arrows 138.
  • the water is then expelled out of the outlet 106 to form a relatively high volume, low pressure flow of fluid. Water from the jets 134 is expelled out of the outlet 106 in the direction of arrows 140.
  • apparatus 20 could be a turbine-driven fluid impelling apparatus 200 that is similar to the apparatus described in published patent specification number GB2318154A. As the entire disclosure of this published document is incorporated herein by reference, a detailed description shall be omitted for the sake of brevity.
  • apparatus 200 includes two water conduits 222 that convey high pressure water from first and second multistage centrifugal pumps 52, 54 via a pipe manifold 50 (see Figs 1 and 2) .
  • the high-pressure water acts on a plurality of turbine blades 224 provided on an annular ring 226 via outlets 228.
  • Three outlets 228 are shown in Fig. 7, but one outlet 228 has been omitted to show a connector 230 between the annular ring 226 and the four propeller blades 232.
  • the propeller blades 232 collectively comprise a propeller 234.
  • the propeller 234 is attached to the annular ring 226 at each of the outlets 228 by similar connectors 230.
  • high-pressure water is conveyed from the pumps 52, 54 via the manifold 50 and the conduits 222.
  • the water exits via the outlets 228 and acts on the blades 224, causing the ring 226 to rotate.
  • Rotation of the ring 226 causes rotation of the propeller 234 due to the connectors 230.
  • water is drawn from an inlet 236 to the apparatus 200 in the direction of arrows 238, and is propelled out of an outlet 240 in the direction of arrows 242.
  • the flow of water through the apparatus 200 results in a low-pressure, relatively high volume flow of water (indicated schematically by arrows 244 in Fig. 4) that is directed at the seabed material 212 to displace it.
  • the body 14 In addition to housing apparatus 20, the body 14 also supports the pipe manifold 50 that includes the first and second multistage centrifugal pumps 52, 54.
  • the first and second pumps 52, 54 are coupled via the manifold 50 and a two-way control valve 56 to the apparatus 20.
  • the pumps 52, 54 can deliver high pressure water to the apparatus 20, depending upon the position of the control valve 56.
  • the pumps 52, 54 are preferably electrically operated (e.g. electrical submersible pumps (ESPs) ) and the power to the pumps 52, 54 is preferably conveyed via the umbilical 18.
  • ESPs electrical submersible pumps
  • a separate electrical cable 58 is shown in Figs 1 and 2 as being coupled to the pumps 52, 54, but it is preferred that the electrical power is delivered via the umbilical 18, and a suitable connector or the like is provided at a lower end thereof so that power can be directed to the pumps 52, 54.
  • the umbilical 18 would not only provide electrical power to the components of apparatus 10 (e.g. pumps 52, 54) , but can also be used as a deployment facility so that apparatus 10 can be lifted and deployed using the umbilical 18 and a suitable lifting apparatus (e.g. crane 304) on board the surface vessel 300.
  • the umbilical 18 can also provide power to other electrical systems, such as a scanning sonar (indicated generally at 19 in Fig. la) , orientation equipment, light and video camera systems etc. that are optionally coupled to the body 14.
  • the scanning sonar 19 may be, for example, a SEABATTM sonar.
  • the pumps 52, 54 can also deliver high pressure water to a cutting apparatus, generally designated 60, depending upon the position of the control valve 56.
  • Cutting apparatus 60 is typically suspended below the body 14 and is in fluid communication with the pipe manifold 50 via a water manifold 62.
  • the water manifold 62 in the embodiment shown is 6 metres in width, but this will generally be dependent upon the size of the moonpool 302 and/or the method of deployment of the apparatus 10. Also, the size of the manifold 62 can depict the width of the material to be displaced.
  • the cutting apparatus 60 in the embodiment shown includes 10 2 -inch (approximately 50mm) nominal diameter flexible hoses 64a-64j .
  • Each hose 64a-64j is around 4 metres in length, although they may be of any suitable length and diameter, and are spaced- apart at around 0.67 metre intervals. It follows that the larger the manifold 62, the greater the number of hoses 64 that can be provided and thus the wider the area of material 12 that can be displaced.
  • Hose 64a is coupled laterally to the adjacent hose 64b by a heavy steel chain 66 and a suitable collar 67a, 67b provided on the hoses 64a, 64b.
  • each hose 64a-64j is' coupled to its adjacent hose(s) by a similar heavy steel chain 66 and collar 67.
  • a second heavy steel chain 68 is used to couple laterally adjacent hoses 64a-64j at a lower spaced- apart location, typically using similar collars 67.
  • the plurality of chains 66, 68 at two distinct levels serves to stabilise, control and limit the movement of the flexible hoses 64a-64j in use.
  • each steel block 70a-70j includes a side-mounted nozzle 72 that facilitates high- pressure water to be directed at the seabed material 12, as indicated by arrows 73 in Fig. lb.
  • the steel blocks 70a-70j are shaped and configured so that they facilitate traversal pull over the seabed material 12.
  • the steel blocks 70a-70j are deflected in the opposite direction due to frictional contact between them and the seabed material 12.
  • the amount by which the blocks 70a-70j are deflected in the opposite direction is generally dependent upon the speed of the vessel 300 in the direction of arrow 74 amongst other factors such as height of the manifold 62, currents, weight of the block etc.
  • the side- mounted nozzles 72 therein are directed so that the nozzles 72 and thus the jets of water 73 face towards the seabed material 12.
  • the body 14 is lowered towards the seabed using the umbilical 18 and the crane 304 on the vessel 300 so that the body 14 is approximately 3 metres above the seabed.
  • the hoses 64a-64j and particularly the steel blocks 70a-70j will typically be in contact with the seabed whilst the vessel 300 begins to move in the direction of arrow 74, as the hoses 64a-64j are longer in length than the height of the body 14 above the seabed.
  • the hoses 64a-64j are generally deflected in the opposite direction to arrow 74 so that a longitudinal axis of the blocks 70a-70j and the hoses 64a-64j at the blocks 70a-70j is substantially parallel to the seabed, although this is not essential.
  • the height of the body 14 above the seabed can be monitored using the scanning sonar 19 and thus the level of deflection of the hoses 64a-64j can also be monitored by the sonar 19.
  • the scanning sonar 19 typically has an accuracy of around ⁇ 5cm and is used to provide a two-dimensional cross-sectional view of the positions of the body 14, hoses 64a-64j and the blocks 70a-70j in real-time. This is particularly advantageous as it allows a user to monitor continuously the status of the apparatus 10 to ensure that a near constant height above the variable terrain of the seabed is achieved.
  • the scanning sonar 19 is not intended to provide a Digital Terrain Model (DTM) of the overall seabed along the route taken by the vessel 300, as this can be done via a separate ROV- based survey system for example. Both functions can be incorporated in one unit if required.
  • DTM Digital Terrain Model
  • At least a portion of the steel blocks 70a-70j is intended to rest on or be in permanent or at least intermittent contact with the seabed. This allows the nozzles 72 to act on the seabed material 12 more efficiently. If the blocks 70a-70j and thus the nozzles 72 were above the seabed, the high pressure water jets 73 from the nozzles 72 could be diffused by the seawater between the nozzles 72 and the seabed material 12, thereby reducing the efficiency of the apparatus. It will be appreciated that the blocks 70a-70j could be a short distance above the seabed (e.g. up to around 100mm) but it may be difficult in practice to keep them at an approximately constant distance above the seabed.
  • the body 14 is set at a height of around 3 metres above the seabed so that the blocks 70a-70j are in contact with the seabed and deflected in the opposite direction to the movement of the vessel 300.
  • the umbilical 18 is preferably held in constant tension using the vessel ' s heave compensation/constant tension capabilities where available. Thus, if the blocks 70a-70j lose contact with the seabed (e.g. due to the undulating and irregular nature of it) then an additional length of the umbilical 18 will be paid out so that the blocks 70a-70j are lowered into contact with the seabed.
  • the constant tension capability can be used to ensure that the blocks 70a-70j remain in contact with the seabed and thus the nozzles 72 therein also remain in contact with the seabed to facilitate efficient operation.
  • the relatively flexible nature of the hoses 64a-64j and the way in which they are interconnected also helps maintain the blocks 70a-70j in contact with the seabed, despite its irregularity.
  • the flexible hoses 64a-64j can deflect to keep the blocks 70a-70j and thus the nozzles 72 in contact with the seabed.
  • the chains 66, 68 constrain the hoses 64a-64j from moving too far apart so that they no longer adequately break up the seabed material 12. Furthermore, the chains 66, 68 keep the hoses 64a-6 j substantially aligned in the lateral direction so that the end hoses 64a, 64j in particular do not move outwith the lateral width of the trench etc that is to be displaced.
  • the flexible conduits 64a-64j can comprise a plurality of rigid portions that are pivotally coupled together.
  • the pivotal coupling can be via hinges, ball joints or the like.
  • the nozzles 72 and/or the blocks 70a-70j can be flexibly coupled by a substantially rigid conduit 64a-64j that is pivotally coupled to the apparatus (e.g. by a ball joint) and the nozzles 72 and/or the blocks 70a-70j may be pivotally coupled to the conduit 64a-64j (e.g. by a ball joint) .
  • the nozzles 72 and/or the blocks 70a- 70j can move relative to one another to accommodate undulations and variations in the surface of the material to be cut.
  • the conduits 64a-64j are pivotally coupled to the water manifold 62 by, for example, ball joints. This would allow the conduits 64a-64j to pivot relative to the manifold 62.
  • the blocks 70-70J can be pivotally coupled to the rigid conduits using, for example, ball joints. Thus, the blocks 70a-70j can pivot relative to the conduits.
  • the pivotal couplings between the conduits, the manifold 62 and the blocks 70-70J facilitates individual movement of each block 70a-70j to compensate for undulations and variations in the seabed material 12.
  • the apparatus 10 is stabilised in use by a first clump weight 306 on the port side of the vessel 300 that is attached to a first end of the water manifold 62 via a suitable cable 308.
  • a second clump weight 310 on the starboard side of the vessel 300 is attached to a second end of the water manifold 62 via a suitable cable 312.
  • the clump weights 306, 310 are suspended from cranes 314, 316 or the like via suitable cables 318, 320 and provide a stabilising triangulation effect to the apparatus 10 in use.
  • the clump weights 306, 310 typically have a combined weight of around 1 tonne and ensure that the water manifold 62 is orientated on an axis that is substantially perpendicular to the direction of movement of the vessel 300.
  • the orientation of the apparatus 10 is typically adjusted so that the water manifold 62 is perpendicular to the direction of movement of the vessel 300 before the blocks 70a-70j are landed on the seabed.
  • An ROV can be used to assist in orientation of the water manifold 62 if required and available.
  • the vessel 300 begins to move in its intended direction of travel.
  • the blocks 70a-70j and thus the nozzles 72 are preferably in contact with the seabed material 12.
  • High-pressure water is then delivered to the nozzles 72 from the centrifugal pumps 52, 54 via the two-way control valve 56 and the pipe manifold 50.
  • the nozzles 72 direct high pressure water jets 73 at the seabed material 12 and thus cuts grooves 80 into the material 12, as indicated schematically in Fig. 3.
  • the apparatus 10 preferably remains in constant tension mode during operation thereof.
  • Fig. 3 is a computer-simulated model of the nozzles 72 that shows the effect of six 8mm nozzles 72 set at 0.2 metre spacing between each.
  • the pressure of the water at the inlet to the nozzle 72 is 100 bar, and the nozzles 72 are held at approximately 100mm off the seabed in the simulation.
  • the jet of water 73 from the nozzle 72 is directed at the seabed material 12 for approximately 28 milliseconds, which corresponds to the vessel 300 moving at approximately 285mm/second (that is the diameter of each jet 73 is around 8mm and this is traversed in around 28 milliseconds, giving a forward speed of 285mm/second) .
  • the computer simulation suggests that a groove 80 of around 0.3 metres in depth is cut as the nozzles 72 pass over the material 12. It will be appreciated that the grooves 80 are likely to be cut deeper into the seabed material 12 if the nozzles 72 are in direct contact with the material 12.
  • the vessel 300 passes over the seabed material 12 that is to be displaced with high-pressure water being directed to the nozzles 72. This would cut grooves 80 into the seabed material 12 to a certain depth (e.g. of around 0.3 metres), but this is dependent upon many factors, such as the distance of the nozzles 72 above the seabed material 12, the speed of the vessel 300 and the pressure of the water as it exits the nozzles 72.
  • the vessel 300 is then turned or its direction reversed so that it travels back along its original path in the opposite direction. However, the water is not issued from the nozzles 72 as the vessel 300 travels in the opposite direction.
  • the apparatus 20 is actuated by switching the two-way control valve 56 to direct water to the blades 24 of the ring 26. Apparatus 20 thus provides a relatively high volume, low pressure flow of water to break up and disperse the material 12 that has been cut by the apparatus 60.
  • the switching of the water flow to apparatus 20 causes the propeller to rotate causing a large volume of relatively low pressure water to be forced out of the outlet.
  • the flow of water from the apparatus 20 removes substantially all of the loose seabed material 12 that is displaced by the cutting action of the water from the nozzles 72, and also removes the seabed material 12 between the grooves 80 thus forming a trench 90 (see Fig. 2) that is of a depth, dependent upon the depth of penetration of the water from the nozzles 72.
  • the width of the trench 90 is generally dependent upon the number of hoses 64a-64j used and the spacing between them, but the lateral width is typically around 6 metres.
  • the direction of travel of the vessel 300 is then reversed again so that it follows its original path, and the two- way control valve 56 is reset to. direct high pressure water to the nozzles 72 to cut further grooves 80 in the newly exposed layer of seabed material 12. Thereafter, the direction of travel of the vessel 300 is then reversed and the apparatus 20 actuated to break up and remove the material between the grooves 80. This process is repeated for each successive layer of newly exposed seabed material 12 to be removed until the total required depth has been displaced. The process can also be repeated any number of times to widen the trench 90 if required.
  • the nozzles 72 where the seabed slopes upwards, and actuate the apparatus 20 where the seabed slopes downwards so that loose material collects in the bottom of the valley between the uphill and downhill slopes. As the material collects in the valley, the valley is filled up by the material and thus flattens the seabed.
  • centrifugal pumps 52, 54 are typically multistage electrical submersible pumps (ESPs) that create a flow of water using the seawater around them. There is thus effectively no loss in pressure because the water is being drawn from a local supply, is pressurised in the pumps 54, 56 and delivered to the nozzles 72 and/or the apparatus 20 over a relatively short distance. This is a particular advantage of embodiments of the present invention.
  • ESPs electrical submersible pumps
  • a typical feature e.g. an ice berg scar
  • a typical feature would require a series of around 15 complete cutting and displacing cycles (e.g. 15 passes using apparatus 60 and 15 passes of apparatus 20) to achieve the anticipated overall displacement depth.
  • a feature that has a total path length of around 1200m i.e. 30 passes of 40m each
  • the estimated time comprises a total time for all 15 cycles described above (i.e. 15 passes using apparatus 60 and 15 passes of apparatus 20) .
  • Each cycle of cutting and then displacing would generally be shorter in terms of time as the overall displacement depth is approached, and so the estimated time is an average time over the 15 cycles that does not take into account the variation in terrain (e.g. hills) or the variations in time.
  • the progress of the displacement can be monitored using the scanning sonar 19 and/or an ROV where available. This will allow the rate of displacement per layer to be monitored, and to confirm that the correct amount of seabed material 12 has been displaced.
  • the vessel 300 typically moves during actuation of water flow out of the nozzles 72 at around 45m per hour.
  • the time duration for the actuation of apparatus 20 to clear the seabed material 12 after it has been cut by the nozzles 72 is typically in the order of a quarter of the time taken to cut the material 12 using the nozzles 72.
  • the total time over which the apparatus 20 is required to be operated in the example given above is expected to be around 6.7 hours. However, this time comprises a total of the time taken for each actuation of the apparatus 20 after each actuation of the cutting apparatus 60 (e.g. 15 cycles of each) .
  • the total volume of seabed material 12 that is displaced will be around 2160m 3 per feature in an approximate time of 41 hours.
  • a total of 30 switchovers (15 and 15) between the apparatus 20 and the apparatus 60 would typically be required for the example given above, and at an estimated 10 minutes per change over (including reversing or turning the vessel 300) , this would equate to around 5 hours in total. There is also likely to be a survey time of around 3 hours per feature.
  • the apparatus 10 is typically retrieved to the surface vessel 300 for a maintenance programme (typically of around 12 hours in duration) after every three features (typical) , and it is estimated that it will take around 1 hour to move between features.
  • a maintenance programme typically of around 12 hours in duration
  • 6480m 3 of seabed material 12 is displaced in a period of around 138 hours (3*41 + 12 + 2), giving an average displacement rate of 47m 3 per hour.
  • nozzle 172 there is shown an alternative configuration of nozzle 172 that can be used.
  • the nozzle 172 is provided with a first blade 174 that is used to cut into the material 12 as the block 170 moves to the right in Fig. 9, thus cutting through the material 12 that precedes the nozzle 172.
  • a second blade 176 is located on the opposite side of the nozzle 172 to the first blade 174.
  • the configuration shown in Fig. 9 allows the nozzle 172 to be as close as possible to the seabed material 12 because the first blade 174 cuts into it, whilst the first and second blades 174, 176 substantially protect the nozzle 172 as it travels through the material 12.
  • apparatus 10 can be used to displace seabed peaks or features (e.g.
  • ice berg scars where the seabed material is both cohesive and non-cohesive.
  • the nozzles 72 are typically used to break up the cohesive material before apparatus 20 is actuated to disperse, the material that is broken up.
  • apparatus 20 may be used to displace material that is non-cohesive such as sand, silt etc.
  • Embodiments of the present invention provide numerous advantages over conventional displacement methods.
  • embodiments of the apparatus 10 are much more efficient because seawater that surrounds it is used for the displacement. This provides the advantage that very little water pressure is lost between the pumps 52, 54 and the nozzles 72 or apparatus 20.
  • apparatus 10 does not require high- pressure pumps to be provided on the vessel, and also does not require large-bore conduits to be dropped from the vessel. This can provide significant capital savings in terms of the size of the surface vessel, the number of personnel, and also the equipment that is required on the vessel.
  • Embodiments of the present invention can also operate entirely via an umbilical back to the surface, the umbilical being used not only to deploy and retrieve the apparatus, but also as a means of providing electrical power supplies thereto and other electrical signals to and from ancillary ' equipment such as the sonar 19, lights, video camera etc.
  • This has the advantage that the apparatus is easier and quicker to deploy and retrieve, and also much simpler to operate and set-up.
  • deploying the apparatus 10 using a single umbilical has the advantage that the vessel ' s heave compensation/constant tension capabilities can be utilised in operation thereof.
  • embodiments of the apparatus can be used to cut into cohesive seabed material using the nozzles 72 and then to disperse the cut material using the apparatus 20. As a further alternative, both of these operations can be performed at the same time.
  • the weight of the blocks keeps them in contact with the seabed and thus the jets of water from the nozzle act directly on the seabed material to break it up. This is advantageous as it allows cohesive material to be broken up before being dispersed. Furthermore, as the jets of water are kept in contact with the seabed material, the water acts directly on the material and thus certain embodiments can be made more efficient.
  • the constant tension capabilities of the surface vessel used in some embodiments can aid in keeping the blocks and thus the jets of water in contact with the seabed material.
  • Certain embodiments of the apparatus also provide for dual deployment and retrieval of the cutting apparatus 60 and the fluid impelling apparatus 20.
  • This provides the advantage in that the apparatus can be used for extended periods without having to retrieve it to the surface vessel to change over to a different apparatus for cutting and dispersing the seabed material.
  • embodiments of the apparatus 10 are easier to deploy and retrieve.
  • an iterative cycle of cutting and then dispersing, cutting and then dispersing can be utilised, thus reducing the amount of time taken to perform these operations individually, particularly where one piece of apparatus needs to be retrieved to the vessel and changed for another piece of apparatus.
  • Embodiments of the present invention also facilitate pre-, post- and real-time surveying of the apparatus and the seabed. This can make monitoring of the operation and orientation of the apparatus more simple, and can also give an indication of the progress made during displacement.

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  • Engineering & Computer Science (AREA)
  • Mechanical Engineering (AREA)
  • Mining & Mineral Resources (AREA)
  • Civil Engineering (AREA)
  • General Engineering & Computer Science (AREA)
  • Structural Engineering (AREA)
  • Perforating, Stamping-Out Or Severing By Means Other Than Cutting (AREA)

Abstract

L'invention concerne un appareil destiné à une excavation subaquatique et des procédés associés. Dans certains modes de réalisation, l'appareil (10) comprend une pluralité de conduits souples (64a-64j) finissant en une pluralité de poids (70a-70j). Ceux-ci (70a-70j) sont généralement traînés le long des fonds marins, chaque poids (70a-70j) comprenant au moins un orifice de sortie de fluide (par exemple, une buse (72)), de manière que des jets d'eau provenant des orifices de sortie de fluide taillent des rainures dans les fonds marins. Un écoulement à volume élevé et à pression relativement basse de fluide provenant de l'appareil (20) peut être utilisé pour rompre les fonds marins entre chaque rainure et excaver ce matériau.
PCT/GB2002/002154 2001-05-09 2002-05-09 Appareil et procede permettant de propulser un fluide WO2002090667A1 (fr)

Applications Claiming Priority (2)

Application Number Priority Date Filing Date Title
GB0111411A GB0111411D0 (en) 2001-05-09 2001-05-09 Apparatus and method
GB0111411.5 2001-05-09

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Cited By (6)

* Cited by examiner, † Cited by third party
Publication number Priority date Publication date Assignee Title
WO2009133373A2 (fr) * 2008-05-01 2009-11-05 Rotech Holdings Limited Améliorations à un appareil d'excavation sous-marin ou associées audit appareil
EP2543774A1 (fr) * 2011-07-08 2013-01-09 Baggerwerken Decloedt en Zoon Dispositif permettant de déplacer un matériau inférieur sous l'eau et procédé d'application d'un tel dispositif
WO2013093492A1 (fr) * 2011-12-22 2013-06-27 Ihc Engineering Business Limited Ensemble de pompes et appareil pour creuser des tranchées sous-marines
EP2317016A3 (fr) * 2009-10-30 2014-05-14 Rotech Limited Appareil d'excavation sous-marine
CN105696641A (zh) * 2014-11-25 2016-06-22 郑州华林清污起重设备有限公司 可避免被轨道卡死的清污抓斗
CN110130430A (zh) * 2019-04-04 2019-08-16 浙江天姥建设发展有限公司 具有搅拌功能的河道清淤装置

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Cited By (13)

* Cited by examiner, † Cited by third party
Publication number Priority date Publication date Assignee Title
US8522460B2 (en) 2008-05-01 2013-09-03 Rotech Holdings Limited Underwater excavation apparatus
WO2009133373A3 (fr) * 2008-05-01 2010-04-01 Rotech Holdings Limited Améliorations à un appareil d'excavation sous-marin ou associées audit appareil
WO2009133373A2 (fr) * 2008-05-01 2009-11-05 Rotech Holdings Limited Améliorations à un appareil d'excavation sous-marin ou associées audit appareil
EP2317016A3 (fr) * 2009-10-30 2014-05-14 Rotech Limited Appareil d'excavation sous-marine
BE1020063A4 (nl) * 2011-07-08 2013-04-02 Baggerwerken Decloedt En Zoon Inrichting voor het verplaatsen van bodemmateriaal onder water en werkwijze voor het toepassen van een dergelijke inrichting.
EP2543774A1 (fr) * 2011-07-08 2013-01-09 Baggerwerken Decloedt en Zoon Dispositif permettant de déplacer un matériau inférieur sous l'eau et procédé d'application d'un tel dispositif
WO2013093492A1 (fr) * 2011-12-22 2013-06-27 Ihc Engineering Business Limited Ensemble de pompes et appareil pour creuser des tranchées sous-marines
RU2623333C2 (ru) * 2011-12-22 2017-06-23 АйЭйчСи ИНЖИНИРИНГ БИЗНЕС ЛИМИТЕД Насосное устройство и устройство разработки траншей под водой
US9719232B2 (en) 2011-12-22 2017-08-01 Ihc Engineering Business Limited Pump apparatus and underwater trenching apparatus
KR101822926B1 (ko) * 2011-12-22 2018-01-29 아이에이치씨 엔지니어링 비니지스 리미티드 펌프 장치 및 수중 도랑파기 장치
CN105696641A (zh) * 2014-11-25 2016-06-22 郑州华林清污起重设备有限公司 可避免被轨道卡死的清污抓斗
CN105696641B (zh) * 2014-11-25 2017-08-29 郑州华林清污起重设备有限公司 可避免被轨道卡死的清污抓斗
CN110130430A (zh) * 2019-04-04 2019-08-16 浙江天姥建设发展有限公司 具有搅拌功能的河道清淤装置

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