Case Studies

Custom Rope Cutting System for FPSO Decommissioning

Custom ROV tooling for tensioned mooring rope cutting.

Imgi 13 Rope Cutting System

Project Overview

Sector Decommissioning
Location Offshore FPSO
Challenge Cutting large-diameter mooring ropes under tension
Outcome Delivered safely, on schedule and with zero incidents

The Challenge

A long-standing client required support on an FPSO decommissioning programme involving the cutting of large-diameter mooring ropes under tension. Conventional ROV cutting methods were considered too high risk, requiring a bespoke solution capable of performing the operation safely and reliably.

The Solution

Film-Ocean engineered a custom twin-disc cutting system with a dedicated deployment garage, allowing the tool to be lowered to depth and positioned accurately by an ROV. Once engaged, the cutting operation could be controlled remotely, enabling the ROV to move to a safe stand-off position during the cut.

The project also involved:

  • Development of a compact high-power hydraulic drive system
  • Extensive cutting trials to determine the most effective cutting disc configuration
  • Robust design for repeated offshore operations

The Outcome

The bespoke system was successfully deployed offshore and the project was completed on schedule with zero accidents or incidents.

Key Highlights

Custom-engineered ROV-operated cutting system

Safe cutting of tensioned mooring ropes

Delivered on schedule with zero incidents

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All case studies

Custom Rope Cutting System for FPSO Decommissioning

FPSO decommissioning programme

Bespoke ROV-operated cutting system

Delivered on schedule with zero incidents

Learn more

Custom Rope Cutting System for FPSO Decommissioning

FPSO decommissioning programme

Bespoke ROV-operated cutting system

Delivered on schedule with zero incidents

Learn more
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