UK-based subsea technology company Sonardyne said Australian headquartered subsea services firm Neptune has become the latest to adopt its new, all-in-one acoustic and inertial positioning technology platform to support offshore survey projects.
The order, made through Sonardyne’s Singapore subsidiary, includes the supply of Fusion 2 software, Compatt 6 seabed transponders and ROVNav 6 LBL (Long BaseLine) vehicle-mounted transceivers. The Compatt 6s and ROVNav 6s will be Sonardyne’s latest ‘plus’ hardware platform (6+), engineered to unlock the full capabilities of Fusion 2.
Built from the ground up, with ease of use and operational efficiency in mind, Fusion 2 software offers a seamless environment in which surveyors can perform all of their LBL, SPRINT INS (inertial navigation system) and sparse (INS-aided) LBL operations. When used alongside 6+ hardware, Fusion 2 offers the ability to simplify complex projects - all with less subsea and topside hardware.
As part of the deal, Neptune is trading-in its inventory of Compatt 5 seabed transponders which, after many years of reliable service, now date back to two generations of Sonardyne LBL subsea hardware. Their 6+ replacements are scheduled to go straight to work supporting Neptune’s upcoming rig positioning and field support campaigns in Asia and Australia.
Pat Fournier, General Manager, Neptune, says, “Sonardyne came to see us in Perth late last year, as part of their Fusion 2 and 6+ launch tour. The in-water demos they ran were impressive to say the least - particularly the display of combined data telemetry and range updates and real-time INS-aided LBL SLAM (simultaneous localisation and mapping) calibration. This new Sonardyne equipment will continue to allow Neptune to remain at the forefront of technology and demonstrates Neptune’s commitment to supply its clients with the latest subsea technology solutions.
Graeme Buchanan, Sales Manager with Sonardyne Asia Pte. in Singapore, says, “Markets often need time to understand the reasons behind the introduction a generational change in a technology platform. But in the case of Fusion 2 and 6+, our customers have been very quick to appreciate how the all-in-one approach we’ve taken will transform and simplify their operations.
“Neptune is a long-standing customer of ours and we’re confident they will see the benefits of this purchase from the moment they start using it.”