Basic Knowledge about ROV and ROV Cables--What are ROV and ROV Cables?

Jan. 23, 2024

Basic Knowledge about ROV and ROV Cables--What are ROV and ROV Cables?cid=9

A remotely operated vehicle (ROV) is an unoccupied underwater robot that is connected to a ship by a series of cables. These cables transmit command and control signals between the operator and the ROV, allowing remote navigation of the vehicle.

ROV is used to perform tasks such as valve operations, hydraulic functions and other general tasks within the subsea oil and gas industry.

ROV cables are designed in a way that the load is transferred through the strength member instead of the electrical and optical components.

The core of the cable contains Kevlar strands for strength and Dacron fibers for space filling. Both fibers are impregnated with water-blocking compound to block any leaks caused by nicks or rips in the cable. The high-visibility yellow polyurethane foam jacket resists abrasion and provides neutral buoyancy.

The umbilical cable connects the ship to the ROV or TMS, while the tether cable connects the TMS to the ROV. The umbilical cable is generally steel jacketed, while the tether cable uses synthetic fibers to maintain neutral buoyancy.

Generally speaking, ROV cables are a group of cables, or tether, connects the ROV to the ship, sending electrical signals back and forth between the operator and the vehicle. Most ROVs are equipped with at least a still camera, video camera, and lights, meaning that they can transit images and video back to the ship.

Basic Knowledge about ROV and ROV Cables--What are ROV and ROV Cables?cid=9