Pipe Retrieval Tool For Subsea Pipeline Laydown or Recovery

Pipeline Retrieval Tools allow for the laydown or recovery of subsea pipelines and are designed for lifting large diameter pipe and heavy loads. The laying of subsea pipelines involves the placement of large-diameter tubulars in an environment where extreme forces or motions may result in buckling and flooding the pipeline. In this event, the damaged pipe section must be removed and repairs made. The replacement pipe may be tied in using hyperbaric welding facilities, or the pipeline end may be recovered to the pipelay vessel for surface repairs.

Tapered locks operate on a wedge principle, improving the connection efficiency as the load increases. Once set, this fail-safe mode of operation enables the mechanical connection with the pipeline to remain secure independent of the tool hydraulic activation system. A seal and vent system within the Pipeline Retrieval Tool assembly enables the pipe to be de-watered prior to the lifting operation.