Deep underwater in the
Gulf of Mexico, PBC Linear is providing smooth and precise linear motion
for submarine oil pipeline maintenance and repair. Using their Linear
Slide Technology (LST), which implements PBC Linear self-lubricating
Simplicity® products and patented Frelon J® liner for long-lasting wear
life, an engineering company who specializes in designing custom-need
products crafted a drill supported by PBC Linear control and guidance.
This newly designed underwater drill allows for highly accurate and
targeted repair of submarine oil pipelines that funnel a wide assortment
of fuels to the US.
Submarine oil pipelines lie on the waterbed
in lakes, rivers, and—in this case—gulfs. They are utilized for
transportation of fuels such as natural gas, kerosene, diesel fuel, and
propane. These pipes periodically require maintenance and repair;
however, since they are located on the bottom of the ocean floor, a
special drill assembly is needed to complete the task. The entire repair
operation necessitates the drill to be man-operated, since the drilling
and repairing entails subtle and careful fine tuning. Designed with PBC
Linear’s 2HCR linear slide, the drill assembly could be easily adjusted
and calibrated by hand, even underwater.
The 2HCR hand crank linear slide provides
specialized linear motion and exceptional control. Outfitted with
proprietary stainless steel Simplicity® self-lubricating bearings,
shafting, and Frelon J® liner for enhanced corrosion resistance, the
2HCR linear slide is well-suited for the underwater environment,
constant salt water immersion, and load capacities required for the
application. The cast aluminum counterbalanced hand crank with ball
screw lock puts the control solely in the operator’s hands and
facilitates easy modification and use. The end result was a highly
accurate drill that could carefully bore through the concrete oil pipes
for enhanced maintenance and repair.
