Diveworks International completed critical desilting and salvage operations at a Jetty in Hamble. As an experienced diving contractor UK, the team restored the performance of a vital fire pump intake system.

Over time, tidal movement caused significant sediment build-up around the intake structure. Consequently, water flow reduced and operational risk increased. In addition, debris remained buried beneath the seabed, which required immediate salvage intervention.
Therefore, the project required a structured combination of desilting, dredging and subsea salvage services.

The Challenge

This project presented several operational challenges. Firstly, heavy sediment accumulation restricted access to critical infrastructure. Moreover, extremely low visibility made underwater work more difficult.
At the same time, tidal conditions reduced available dive windows. Meanwhile, buried debris created additional hazards that required controlled salvage operations.
Furthermore, strict permit-to-work controls applied due to the live fuel terminal environment. As a result, the project demanded precise planning and delivery by a competent diving contractor in the UK.

Our Solution – Targeted Desilting and Salvage

Diveworks International deployed a specialist commercial diving team supported by advanced dredging equipment. As a result, the team removed sediment efficiently and improved access to the fire pump intake system.

Controlled Desilting and Dredging

The team carried out desilting operations using airlift excavation and Hydrainer dredging systems. Consequently, divers removed sediment in a controlled manner while minimising environmental impact.

High-Pressure Jetting

Where sediment remained compacted, divers applied high-pressure water jetting. This approach broke down dense material, which then allowed faster and more effective desilting.

Underwater Inspection

Following desilting, the team completed a detailed inspection of the intake structure. In addition, continuous video recording provided a clear visual record for future comparison.

Ultrasonic Thickness Testing

The team performed UT measurements on key structural components. As a result, the client gained accurate baseline data for long-term integrity monitoring.

Subsea Salvage Operations

During the works, divers identified debris buried beneath the sediment. Therefore, the team conducted a targeted salvage operation.

They successfully recovered:

♦ 15 scaffold poles

♦ 1 x ROV

Consequently, the team improved clearance around the intake and reduced future obstruction risks.

Results – Desilting and Salvage Success

The combined desilting, dredging and salvage activities delivered clear and measurable outcomes.

♦ Sediment levels reduced significantly
♦ 16 obstructions removed through salvage operations
♦ Water flow to the intake system improved
♦ Access to subsea assets increased
♦ Inspection and video records completed
♦ UT baseline data established
♦ Zero safety incidents recorded
♦ Zero environmental impact reported

In total, the diving team completed 25 dives and achieved approximately 45 hours of bottom time.

Key Findings

Structure Remains Serviceable
The inspection confirmed that the intake structure remains suitable for continued operation.
Sediment Will Continue to Accumulate
Tidal activity continues to transport sediment into the area. Therefore, regular desilting and dredging remain essential.
Corrosion Protection Performs Effectively
UT data confirmed that the existing corrosion protection system continues to function as intended.
Proactive Maintenance Reduces Risk
Regular inspection and salvage intervention reduce the likelihood of blockages, downtime and emergency repairs.

Client Benefits

By implementing planned desilting and salvage services, the client achieved several operational improvements.

♦ Increased confidence in emergency response capability
♦ Improved reliability of the fire pump system
♦ Enhanced visibility of subsea asset condition
♦ Reduced risk of blockage and downtime
♦ More effective long-term maintenance planning

Conclusion – Reliable Diving Contractor UK

Diveworks International successfully delivered this desilting and salvage project within a complex operational environment. Throughout the works, the team improved asset performance, reduced risk and maintained high safety standards.
Furthermore, by combining professional dredging, desilting and salvage expertise, the team restored critical infrastructure efficiently.
As a trusted diving contractor UK, Diveworks International continues to support marine and energy clients with:

♦ Desilting and dredging services
♦ Subsea salvage operations
♦ Commercial diving solutions across the UK and overseas.