Houghton Offshore helped save the Russians

Tears of joy came into the eyes of onlookers as the Russian submarine surfaced and another subsea catastrophe was averted. But it might have been a different and less happy ending to the story had it not been for the technology supplied by Tritech in developing the Scorpio 45 remote operated vehicle (ROV).

Tritech supplied the Scorpio 45 to the Royal Navy twenty years ago and in turn they trained and supported the Royal Navy crews with this vehicle.

Scorpio 45 was built in San Diego USA about 1982. It can dive to a depth of 1000m and carries 4 TV cameras, 6 high intensity lights, 2 sonar's, a manipulator, a cutting arm and many other sensors. The ROV also uses a 1000v 3ph electric motor to drive a Volvo hydraulic pump which then drives 6 thrusters and other tools. The pump supplies 2400 psi. Scorpio 45 uses Houghton Hydro-Drive HPE 22 seawater emulsifying oil to operate the sensitive hydraulic systems.

The Royal Navy flew the complete system of approx 30 tons out to Petropavlosk, Chamkatcha Russia on the 6th of August by a C17 belonging to the RAF. After a 3 hour sail and a 5 hour dive we managed to cut free the AS28 mini sub that was trapped 600 feet down in the Pacific complete with 7 Russian crewmen. We were informed that the crew only had between 4 and 6 hours of oxygen left.

Houghton Offshore are very proud to have contributed the fluid technology to this rescue mission. We are absolutely delighted that the Scorpio 45 provided the required hydraulic performance and saved the lives of these seven Russian submariners. This is technology in action for the benefit of
mankind. Acclaiming British and American technology at its best.

Hydro-Drive HPE sea-water emulsifying hydraulic oils

These oils have been developed for use in submarines, ROV’s, underwater ploughs and other hydraulic and mechanical equipment that is inherently vulnerable to sea-water contamination. The heavier grades can also find applications as stern tube lubricants. The additive package used in these products is the result of many years of research work, and provides the oil with the ability to emulsify fresh and seawater whilst providing exceptional anti-corrosion properties for the protection of highly specialised and complex hydraulic systems.

Houghton also produces a complete range of vegetable based and conventional hydrocarbon based lubricants and grease products for marine and
industrial applications. Our superior quality Hydro-Drive range of hydraulic oils and Cosmolubric EP heavy-duty gear oils meet the majority of demands made by both Offshore and General Industries

.