Subsea Global Solutions was engaged to perform an urgent azimuth thruster repair for a subsea cable vessel in San Diego. The vessel was fully loaded with cable and prepared to depart for a critical seabed installation project in Fiji when a slow leak was detected at the port azimuth thruster’s steering seal. The client, familiar with Subsea Global’s extensive experience in successful underwater repairs, turned to us for a solution that would minimize downtime and allow the vessel to remain on schedule.

Scope of Work

Subsea Global Solutions’ mission was to rapidly assess and repair the leaking steering seal to prevent further oil egress and operational disruption. The scope included:

• Conducting an inspection to locate the precise source of the leak.

• Designing a custom packing gland housing as an alternative to a full seal replacement. Utilizing a built-up design to reduce the machining equipment size availability constraints and time needed to fabricate.  

• Fabricating the housing in an expedited timeframe.

• Installing the solution underwater using a skilled dive team.

• Ensuring the repair met all necessary technical and operational standards.

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The Solution & Execution

Upon initial inspection, it was determined that the steering seal, rather than the shaft seal, was the source of the leak. Given the vessel’s pressing schedule, a traditional seal replacement was not feasible. Instead, Subsea Global Solutions’ Technical Services engineered a custom packing gland housing that could be bolted onto the existing steering seal housing, effectively sealing the leak without requiring extensive disassembly.

Design & Fabrication

• A dive team conducted measurements and validated fitment requirements.

• The design was reviewed and approved by the client.

• All necessary materials were sourced, and the packing gland housing was fabricated within four days.

Installation & Completion

• A team from Subsea Global’s US West Coast office was deployed to San Diego.

• Favorable diving conditions allowed for efficient execution without major delays.

• The vessel was cleared for departure on time, ensuring it could proceed with its seabed installation project as scheduled.

Conclusion

Subsea Global Solutions successfully delivered a rapid and effective repair solution, enabling the vessel to depart on time with minimal disruption. The client was extremely satisfied with the solution, efficiency, and professionalism demonstrated throughout the project. As a result, the client placed an order for a second packing gland housing for the starboard azimuth thruster, further cementing their trust in Subsea Global’s expertise and service quality.

Key Takeaways:

• Rapid Response & Innovation: Designed, fabricated, and installed a custom repair solution within a compressed timeline.

• Operational Efficiency: Completed the repair in two shifts without impacting the vessel’s scheduled operations.

• Client Satisfaction: The successful repair led to an additional order, reinforcing Subsea Global’s reputation for high-quality service.

Service Overview: Azimuth Thruster Repairs

Subsea Global Solutions specializes in comprehensive azimuth thruster repairs, installations, and maintenance to keep vessels operational without the need for dry-docking. Our expertise includes:

• In-water thruster exchanges and repairs

• Custom engineering solutions for leak containment and sealing

• Class-approved repair procedures

• Diver-operated installations and inspections

With a global presence and a reputation for excellence, Subsea Global is the trusted partner for mission-critical underwater repairs. Contact us today to discuss your vessel’s maintenance and repair needs!