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Webtool HP690A Intensifier Panel

Maritime Activity Reports, Inc.

June 10, 2013

The Webtool HP690A intensifier panel is used to boost the pressure of a work fluid, usually hydraulic oil or water/glycol mixture, from a standard hydraulic power unit (HPU).

The input pressure from the HPU is typically 210 bar (3,000psi), and the HP690A intensifier panel boosts this to produce an output pressure of 690 bar (10,000psi). This 690 bar output allows the operation of high pressure devices such as a Webtool subsea hydraulic cutting tool, and is also suitable for a wide range of high pressure double acting tools that require a 690 bar hydraulic supply.

The circuit design of the Webtool HP690A eliminates the need for the check valve that is typically seen in panels of this type. This means that as soon as the input pressure is removed, the high pressure working fluid safely drains back to the pressure compensated reservoir on the ROV, eliminating the possibility of locked in pressure and the dangerous conditions associated with it.

Similarly, in the event of an HPU failure, the working fluid on the high pressure side of the intensifier will safely drain back to tank, greatly increasing the chances of a successful recovery of the ROV, and eliminating over-pressure safety hazards.

The Webtool HP690 contains (patent applied for) control circuitry to eliminate the additional drain hose that would normally be required and has a standard configuration of two input hoses and two output hoses.

This makes the HP690A compatible with the most popular two-port hot stabs on the market whilst offering advanced safety features that would normally only be seen with three hose systems.

The traditional intensifier panel fixes all of the delicate components to a backing plate, leaving them exposed to collision damage, they also use rigid pipework with compression fittings that create potential leak points. The HP690A houses the control circuitry within a compact and robust machined and cross drilled aluminum housing which protects them from accidental damage and reduces the risk of leaking by eliminating pipework between components.

The HP690A contains dual pressure gauges, allowing the operator to monitor both input and output pressure and confirm that the system is functioning correctly. Both of these gauges are recessed within the body. The dual gauge design also helps to diagnose problems at the tool end by clearly displaying both the input and output pressures. Optional transducers are available which replace the gauges and allow the pressures to be monitored electronically rather than via camera.

User replaceable internal protection screens are fitted to the feed and return ports of the intensifier which protect the unit from in the event of work fluid contamination. These screens are not a substitute for clean oil (3 micron class 17/15/12), but they will stop large debris particles from instantly seizing up the intensifier for a short while whereas traditional intensifiers will seize up almost instantly.
 

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