The Problem
Ensuring CPS Integrity in Offshore Wind Farm Operations
CPS systems are vital for protecting subsea cables against environmental and mechanical stresses. However, over time, these systems may experience wear, misalignment, or damage due to hydrodynamic forces, sediment movement, or improper installation, jeopardising the reliability of the wind farm infrastructure.
Several issues were identified as potential risks:
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Exposed and Unprotected Cables: Portions of subsea cables were exposed or insufficiently protected, increasing their vulnerability to environmental damage and physical stress.
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Improper Rock Bag Placement: Protective rock bags designed to secure the CPS were not correctly positioned, leaving gaps that exposed cable segments or caused tension on the CPS.
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Bellmouth Misalignments: The CPS was observed to exit the monopile bellmouth at improper angles, suggesting uneven tension and potential long-term stress on the cable system.
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Regulatory and Safety Compliance: Deviations from design specifications raised concerns about the asset’s compliance with safety and operational standards.
These issues posed significant risks to the structural integrity of the wind farm’s cable systems and required a thorough inspection to identify the scope and details of the anomalies.
Our Solution
Detailed CPS Inspection and Data Collection
Atlantas Marine deployed advanced ROV technology to perform a comprehensive inspection, identifying anomalies and documenting conditions to inform remediation planning.
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Visual Inspection of the CPS
- Conducted a high-definition video survey of the entire CPS system, from the bellmouth to the burial point.
- Documented anomalies such as exposed cables, improper rock bag placements, and misaligned CPS exits, providing a clear understanding of the system’s condition.
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Measurement and Documentation of Anomalies
- Measured and documented the distance between anomalies, burial points, and monopile structures to ensure precise data for remediation.
- Key findings included approximately 7 meters of exposed cable and CPS misalignments on the A11-A12 connection.
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Rock Bag Analysis
- Examined the placement and effectiveness of protective rock bags, identifying instances where cables extended beyond the bags, increasing their exposure to potential damage.
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Seabed and Surroundings Survey
- Assessed seabed conditions around the CPS to identify additional factors affecting system integrity, such as scour or sediment displacement.
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Comprehensive Reporting
- Delivered a detailed report highlighting anomalies, supported by video footage, SONAR images, and precise measurements.
- Provided actionable insights to the client to support effective remediation planning and compliance with safety standards.
