ROV/AUV buoyancy
Composite foam
BOE’s syntactic foam buoyancy systems are cast using dedicated mould technology ensuring repeatable consistent production which is ideally suited to ROV/AUV buoyancy block production – particularly on multi-build projects.
The choice of macrosphere used in these systems is determined by the operating depth of the vehicle and this table provides a general guide.
Typical operating
depth (msw) |
Macrosphere type |
| 0-1000 |
Thermoplastic |
| 500-3000 |
Glass reinforced epoxy (GRE) |
| 2000-3500 |
Carbon fibre |
The overlap in the depth ranges is caused by macro efficiency changes in design operating depths.
Composite foam systems comprise an integrated shell to ensure maximum protection of the core material.
Pure foam
Offering many advantages over composite foam systems, pure foam is a premium product that is generally selected for ultra-deepwater application.
These high performance materials are manufactured under laboratory conditions to guarantee the lowest possible density.
Pure foam blocks are suitable for lamination and machining by end-users as long as suitable H&S guidelines are followed.
ROV/AUV external finishes
3-5mm spray applied elastomer is the most common finish for ROV/AUV blocks. High gloss yellow, orange, red or white are standard while other pigments are available by specification.
An integral GRP skin is also used for certain applications and this finish is formed within the production tool to become a structural component of the module.
Rotationally moulded polyethylene shells are an option when a reasonable quantity of blocks is required. Typical thicknesses of PE shells range from 6-14mm.
