Industry Briefing
A single destination for timely, editor-curated robotics news from around the world.
UK’s nuclear waste decommissioning could be handled by teleoperated robots
Innovative robotic technologies are being trialed in the UK to improve the safe management of...
AI and Robotics
Wi-Fi That Can Withstand a Nuclear Reactor
Researchers at the Institute of Science Tokyo have developed a robust Wi-Fi receiver capable of functioning within the extreme conditions of a nuclear reactor, a breakthrough presented by graduate student Yasuto Narukiyo at the IEEE International Solid-State Circuits Conference in San Francisco this February. The receiver can withstand radiation doses of up to 500 kilograys, significantly exceeding the tolerance levels of typical electronics used in space. This innovation aims to enhance wireless communication for robots tasked with decommissioning nuclear reactors, a process that has become increasingly vital since the Fukushima Daiichi disaster in 2011. Currently, many robotic systems rely on cumbersome LAN cables, which can complicate operations in hazardous environments. With over 200 reactors expected to reach the end of their operational lives in the next two decades, the need for effective decommissioning solutions is pressing. To achieve radiation hardening, Narukiyo and his team modified the receiver's components, reduced the number of transistors, and adjusted their design to minimize vulnerability to radiation damage. They focused on optimizing the performance of PMOS and NMOS transistors, leading to a receiver that maintained comparable performance to standard Wi-Fi devices even after exposure to high radiation levels. Looking ahead, Narukiyo plans to enhance the receiver's capabilities and develop a transmitter for two-way communication, which presents additional challenges due to the high current requirements for Wi-Fi signal generation. The team is also investigating alternative semiconductor materials, such as diamond, to improve the transmitter's resilience.
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DeepOcean Completes Subsea Infrastructure Removals for Spirit Energy in North Sea
DeepOcean has successfully completed the recovery of the subsea wellhead protection structure at Spirit Energy's Seven Seas field and disconnected subsea infrastructure at the Grove West field in the North Sea. This operation utilized proprietary tooling developed in-house for decommissioning and was executed using the high-specification construction vessel Edda Freya. The project is part of Spirit Energy's broader decommissioning program for the Seven Seas and Grove West fields, aiming to maximize material recovery and minimize waste. DeepOcean's operations, managed from Aberdeen, UK, have ensured that all recovered materials are either reused, recycled, or disposed of responsibly, contributing to environmental sustainability. Looking ahead, DeepOcean's successful execution of these subsea removals positions them well for future projects with Spirit Energy. The company has demonstrated its capability in subsea decommissioning, with a focus on efficiency and environmental responsibility, as highlighted by the recycling of over 95% of materials from decommissioned assets.
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DeepOcean Awarded Foinaven Contract
DeepOcean, a global ocean services provider, has secured a contract with bp to assist in the decommissioning and recycling of subsea equipment at the Foinaven field, located west of Shetland in the UK. This collaboration aims to ensure the environmentally responsible dismantling of infrastructure as bp transitions away from active operations in the area. The agreement underscores the growing emphasis on sustainable practices within the energy sector, particularly in the context of decommissioning aging offshore facilities. The project is set to commence shortly, reflecting both companies' commitment to minimizing environmental impact while adhering to regulatory standards.
deepocean contract award foinaven
Unique Group Expands Global Subsea Mechanical Division with Multi-Million Dollar Investment
Unique Group, a global leader in subsea technologies and engineering, has unveiled plans for a significant multi-million-dollar investment aimed at expanding its Subsea Mechanical division. This strategic move, announced recently, is set to enhance the company’s capabilities in subsea decommissioning, installation, and construction projects. The investment reflects Unique Group's commitment to strengthening its global presence and meeting the growing demand for advanced subsea solutions. By bolstering its resources and expertise, the company aims to better serve clients and address the complexities of modern subsea operations.
unique group global subsea mechanical division investment
Boskalis Subsea Services Launches Recruitment Drive to Support Major Expansion of ROV Capabilities
Boskalis Subsea Services, a prominent player in subsea decommissioning, inspection, repair, and maintenance, has unveiled a significant enhancement to its Remote Operated Vehicle (ROV) capabilities. This expansion comes with the establishment of a specialized ROV department, supported by a cutting-edge Remote Operations Centre (ROC) located in Aberdeen, which commenced operations earlier this year. The move aims to bolster the company's service offerings and improve operational efficiency in subsea projects, reflecting Boskalis's commitment to advancing technology in the industry.
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AF Offshore Decom & Deep C to Undertake Major Offshore Dredging
Deep C has announced a partnership with AF Offshore Decom AS to undertake a major subsea intervention project. This initiative will involve the dredging of several thousand cubic meters of rock dump, which is comparable to hundreds of truckloads. The operation is set to be one of the largest ever executed by Deep C's flagship Subsea Construction Vehicle (SCV). The collaboration aims to enhance capabilities in subsea construction and decommissioning, reflecting both companies' commitment to advancing industry standards.
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