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The Use of Submersible ROVs for the Inspection and Repair of Water Conveyance Tunnels

by Ronald E. Heffron, Subsea Engineering Int Ltd, United States,



Document Type: Proceeding Paper

Part of: Water Resources Infrastructure: Needs, Economics, and Financing

Abstract:

At Virginia Power's Bath County Pumped Storage Station, robotic technology was pioneered through the development of a purpose-built Remotely Operated Vehicle (ROV) to gain access to the tunnels. The 'HYDROVER I' System, developed by Virginia Power, was successful in performing a record tunnel excursion of 6100 feet. One important element in this success was the development of a 7000 foot neutrally buoyant umbilical which limits frictional drag on the tunnel liner. Building upon this success, the 'SUPER HYDROVER II' System is currently under development which will be capable of excursions as long as 30,000 feet. Development is also proceeding on the TRAPP vehicle which will penetrate, inspect, and clean the inside of small diameter pipelines.

Subject Headings: Hydro power | Tunnels | Power plants | Vehicles | Water tunnels | Pumping stations | Electric power | Virginia | United States

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