INDUSTRY NEWS
Decom Engineering Unveils Ultra-Light C1-16UL Chopsaw For Subsea Operations
Subsea technology specialist, Decom Engineering, has developed and deployed a groundbreaking ultra-light Chopsaw which is transforming how contractors approach challenging subsea cutting operations.
The C1-16UL represents the most significant advancement in Aberdeen-based Decom’s highly respected Chopsaw range, specifically engineered to handle the demanding task of cutting flexible risers and mooring chains under tension, Riser Turret Moorings and Deepwater Tensioned Moorings.
The standout feature of the C1-16UL is its exceptional weight characteristics - weighing approximately 270kg in
air but just 30kg in seawater - and this dramatic weight reduction offers unprecedented manoeuvrability with ROVs while maintaining the robust cutting capabilities inherent in all Decom Chopsaws.
Decom Engineering Commercial Director, Nick McNally, said: “We’ve fundamentally rewritten the chopsaw rulebook. Where traditional subsea cutting relied on heavier, rigid steel frames, we’ve created a tool that delivers superior performance while being light enough for smaller ROVs to deploy effectively. This eliminates the need for cranes and enables access to challenging locations previously considered inaccessible.”
Following extensive testing and trials, the C1-16UL has been successfully deployed offshore on international projects, leading to Decom investing in three additional units which are currently engaged in chain cutting and flexible riser cutting operations.
Equipped with Decom’s proprietary Tungsten Carbide Tipped blade, the C1-16UL delivers exceptionally fast, clean and precise cuts. Each blade performs up to 100 cuts depending on application, with blade changes completed in just five minutes, significantly minimising operational downtime.
“Close collaboration with our clients has enabled us to deliver a tool that cuts large mooring chain in a matter of minutes, where previously these operations could take hours per cut using other methods,” McNally explained. “The efficiency gains and cost savings are transformational for our clients’ subsea operations.”
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www.sosmagazine.biz July Issue 2025
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