SeaBotix LBV Breaks Pipeline Inspection Record
SeaBotix’ long-time client, Pat Murphy, President of Lake Erie Diving, reported a new personal distance record for internal pipe inspection with his SeaBotix LBV300XL.
“It was an internal inspection of a 48” (122 cm) intake pipe in Lake Michigan,” Murphy said. “The pipe was 6,140’ (1,872 m) in length and I did it in one run from shore in just under two hours. I did not go above Gain 5 [half of full power]. I look forward to going the maximum umbilical length I have of 6,760’ (2,061 m) someday, now that I know the vehicle will pull it.”
Murphy had spoken with SeaBotix’ founder Don Rodocker at a trade show earlier this year and commented he had previously been able to get the LBV300XL to 4,400’ (1,341 m) at a full Gain 10. Don recommended an upgrade to 100 mm (4”) horizontal thrusters (two) from the standard 76 mm (3”). Don knew it would help, but was pleased to learn how much.
The LBV300XL was phased-out three years ago with the release of the vectored-thrust vLBV300, with a total of four horizontal thrusters for even more pulling power.
seabotix.com