Partners Aim to Bring New Trenching Vehicle to Market

A Memorandum of Understanding between Royal IHC and Canyon Offshore, a U.K. subsidiary of Houston-based Helix Energy Solutions Group, will see that partners work toward an exclusive arrangement to jointly bring the Hi-Traq trenching vehicle to the market. Upon conclusion of the agreement between the parties, Canyon would have the exclusive right to use the first Hi-Traq M1600, an asset built for both mechanical cutting and jetting operations. The modular asset would be available either as a standalone trenching spread on a client asset (vessel or barge for shallow water operations) or on board one of Canyon’s construction and trenching support vessels.

Following years of research and development, IHC built the Hi-Traq to bring forward the next generation of trenching vehicle to the market. The vehicle offers enhanced maneuverability and the powerful tooling will enable safe, efficient burial in a range of seabed conditions, the manufacturer said. The Hi-Traq vehicle has recently completed onshore cutter testing and is entering final commissioning prior to being mobilized for sea trials. With a strong track record in trenching, Canyon brings to the project engineering, design and build knowledge with operational expertise. 

Alongside the cooperation to jointly market Hi-Traq, IHC will provide further services to Canyon including engineering, modifications and upgrades to existing Canyon equipment. Additionally, both companies will collaborate to utilize existing and new assets to extend the range of services offered from both businesses, involving a wider scope of equipment pushing the businesses forwards in both current and diversified markets.