Installation of submarine cables and pipes in shallow waters and connecting them to the shore by the method of horizontal directional drilling

¹ Constanta Maritime University, Doctoral School of Mechanical Engineering and Mechatronic, 104 Mircea cel Batran Street, ZC 900663, Constanta, Romania
² Constanta Maritime University, Doctoral School of Mechanical Engineering and Mechatronic, 104 Mircea cel Batran Street, ZC 900663, Constanta, Romania

^* Corresponding author: vasilescuvaleriu75@gmail.com

Abstract

This article presents the horizontal directional drilling (HDD) as one of the most suitable technique used to reduce the impact on the environment during the submarine pipe and cable installation process, especially in the coastal area and shallow waters. HDD is a technique used to drill a subsea tunnel or under other designated area with the goal to pull a pipe or other facility through the drilled underground tunnel. With the development of the offshore natural gas and wind industry, the demand for the construction of transfer pipeline and cables has also increased. The installation of submarine pipelines and cables can have negative effects on the marine environment. This is one of the main reasons that construction and operation of offshore wind energy systems has been and continues to be regarded with scepticism by environmental activists, despite the undeniable benefits of this renewable energy source. The main objectives of this article are to emphasize the importance of using this technique but also to highlight the benefits, in particular by significantly reducing the impact on the marine environment.