Overview

JFD, part of James Fisher and Sons plc was commissioned to perform a submarine hull testing operation at their National Hyperbaric Centre facility in Aberdeen, UK. A comprehensive pressure test was to be carried out on a submarine hull to ensure the equipment can withstand the extreme conditions encountered during subsea missions, supporting safe operations and enhancing submarine safety and reliability.

The Challenge

The size of the submarine hull presented logistical challenges. At around 800 cm in length, for the hull to access the testing facility required the removal of the hyperbaric chamber door to allow the submarine hull to be safely manoeuvred into the testing chamber with only a few centimetres of clearance.

Our Solution

JFD deployed a 100-tonne mobile crane to offload the submarine from its trailer onto a specially designed trolley for transport into the National Hyperbaric Centre. Once in the hyperbaric chamber it was securely strapped down to prevent buoyancy during the underwater testing simulation. The chamber was filled with water and the hull subjected to intense pressure to replicate real-world subsea conditions. The hyperbaric chamber testing provided verification that tge equipment would perform safely and reliably under extreme conditions.

Value to customer

• Rigorous testing demonstrated the hull's ability to withstand pressures expected during deep-sea operations, ensuring submarine safety
• Access to National Hyperbaric Centre world-class facility and equipment
• Experienced marine engineering team
• Safe and controlled environment