Anchorsholme Stormwater Pipeline Inspection

Following the potential grounding of the RO-RO ferry Riverdance on top of the Anchorsholme stormwater pipeline near Blackpool, Insight Marine were contracted on behalf of United Utilities to conduct a longline internal remote visual inspection using an ROV equipped with imaging sonar.

Using the Pearpoint 448 explosion proof steerable tractor, the inspection team were working in difficult conditions from the entrance point of the stormdrain. The tractor is capable of turning on its own axis and enabled a survey excursion of 420m. It also allows negotiation of pipes with radical bends. The speed of the tractor is continuously variable and employs a dual range transmission that enables the operator to choose high speed or high torque.

A Tritech Super-Seaking imaging sonar was mounted ahead of the tractor to monitor any deformation in circularity of the pipeline due to damage from the Riverdance.

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