DeepOcean’s cutting-edge trenching system, UT-1, was utilised for the burial of a portion of the High Island A5 fuel support pipeline. The UT-1 delivered superior results on the designated six-inch pipeline sections, meeting burial requirements that included a three-mile section stretching across the Sabine Pass Fairway that called for the pipeline to be lowered to 10-foot top of product.

The trenching work was conducted from the Volantis subsea construction vessel, which conducted its first job in US waters. The Volantis has been on charter to DeepOcean since 2008.

“We are thrilled to introduce our UT-1 jet trenching system and the Volantis to the US market. The UT-1 is capable of drastically changing the trenching industry in US waters, providing our clients with the same, unparalleled results we have seen in other regions worldwide,” says Tony Stokes, president of DeepOcean’s US operation.

DeepOcean’s UT-1 is a versatile 2,800hp trencher capable of conducting subsea trenching for cables and pipelines up to 46” in diameter. It can trench products in excess of 3metres deep, in water depths up to 2,500 metres. It is also capable of carrying out backfill operations to provide further pipeline protection.

The UT-1 is coupled with the DPII Volantis subsea construction vessel to offer precise and efficient trenching solutions with high operational reliability, capable of handling the most challenging subsea environments and seabed conditions.

Going forward, the Volantis and UT-1 are scheduled for further projects both offshore in the US and globally, offering a wide range of trenching services for subsea pipelines and cables.

“The UT-1 ensures the integrity and stability of subsea assets, enhancing the overall reliability of subsea infrastructure. We are confident that the combination of the UT-1 and the Volantis exceed the expectations of our US customers,” adds Tony Stokes.