**Revolutionizing Subsea Operations: The Evolution of Controlled Flow Excavation Technology**
In the dynamic and ever-evolving offshore industry, technological advancements play a crucial role in ensuring efficiency, safety, and environmental sustainability. One such innovation that has gained significant attention is Controlled Flow Excavation (CFE) technology. This article delves into the world of CFE, its applications, and how it is transforming subsea operations, particularly in the context of subsea cable installation and maintenance.
**Understanding Controlled Flow Excavation**
CFE technology leverages the principles of natural erosion to excavate the seabed with minimal disturbance. Unlike traditional mass flow excavation methods, which involve high-pressure hydraulic fluids and can be noisy and disruptive, CFE uses a controlled water flow to erode the seabed. This approach not only reduces environmental impact but also enhances operational efficiency and reliability (Source: [2]).
Two pivotal systems in CFE are the HYDROMOLE E-CFE® by OEG Renewables and the Sea Axe tool by JBS Group. The HYDROMOLE E-CFE® represents a step change in subsea excavation with its all-electric twin tool arrangement, capable of delivering 400kW of power to the seabed, independent of water depth. This system offers real-time monitoring and optimization, ensuring reliability and maximizing project uptime while reducing CO2 emissions and fuel costs by up to 40% (Source: [1]).
On the other hand, JBS Group’s Sea Axe tool utilizes a patented vortex chamber to generate a controlled water column that naturally erodes the seabed. This non-contact method excels in handling diverse seabed materials, from sand and gravel to drill cuttings and clay. The tool is also designed for extended submersion periods of up to 72 hours, providing deployment flexibility and extended operation capabilities (Source: [2]).
**Applications in Subsea Cable Installation**
1. **Burial and De-burial of Pipelines and Cables**
Both the HYDROMOLE E-CFE® and the Sea Axe tool are ideally suited for seabed preparation and trenching operations required for subsea cable burial. These methods ensure that cables are buried at the correct depth without significant seabed disturbance, reducing the risk of cable damage and increasing operational efficiency.
2. **Seabed Preparation**
CFE technology facilitates the creation of precise trenches and channels for cable installation by using controlled flow excavation. This process minim