해양플랜트 강 구조물 철거를 위한 수중 절단장치 개발

Abstract

Offshore plant structures, such as jackets that are exposed to harsh marine environments, are often manufactured in lattice-type trusses by the welding of tubular steel pipe members. If these have reached the end of their life cycle, or they are damaged owing to accidents or natural disasters, they need to be dismantled. Underwater cutting operations in decommissioning work occupy a very important position as a preliminary process for the lifting of cutting objects. Among underwater cutting devices, diamond wire cutters are the most important because of their convenience and economical efficiency. In this study, a diamond wire cutter was developed for the first time in Korea to make a prototype, test and commission it, solve any resulting problems accordingly, and put it into practical use. The driving processes of diamond wire systems generally use a hydraulic method, but the various supporting devices and equipment to supply hydraulic pressure at significant depths are both necessary and costly. The cutter developed in this study was driven using an electric motor, a system designed to maintain constant tension on the main body, a feeding system, and a wire. A waterproof driving part system of the developed cutter was manufactured; the test and commissioning were carried out in a water tank. By successfully performing underwater cutting work with the developed prototype, it was confirmed that our device can be commercialized with practical value and function.