In offshore trenching, reliability is everything. Equipment must perform consistently in demanding conditions, adapt to changing seabed profiles and deliver the efficiency required to keep complex projects on schedule.
For more than a decade, SMD QT1600 has been doing exactly that.
Designed for large-scale power cable burial projects, our most powerful telecoms trencher combines a proven platform with continual development to meet the changing demands of the subsea industry.
Built for demanding projects
Ground conditions can vary significantly within a single project area, requiring equipment that can adapt to different trenching requirements without compromising performance.
Customers can configure the QT1600 with bespoke tooling to suit each project, including high-performance jetting, a 350kW chain cutter capable of trenching to 2m, or a 350kW wheel cutter capable of trenching to 1.2m.
With 1600hp of installed variable power and the capability to jet trench to depths of 3m, the QT1600 provides the performance required for major export cable, interconnector and subsea power transmission projects.
Delivering efficient offshore performance
Its electrically driven, variable-speed water pumps maximise the vehicle’s available electrical power for jetting while minimising unnecessary power loss. Pump pressure can be varied and optimised to suit changing seabed conditions, giving operators greater control throughout the trenching process.
A separate hydraulic power supply operates vehicle functions and additional tooling, enabling the main electrical power to remain concentrated on the water pumps. Hydraulically powered tools can also be deployed to reduce premature backfilling or encourage controlled trench-wall collapse, depending on the required trench profile.
Despite its power, the QT1600 has a relatively modest footprint. This enables contractors to deploy it from a broad range of installation vessels without the vehicle dominating valuable deck space.
A platform that continues to evolve
Driven by customer feedback and operational experience, the QT1600 has been continually refined to meet changing offshore requirements.
Recent upgrades have responded to demand for greater power, flexible tooling and bespoke trench profiles, while retaining proven modules that have delivered reliable subsea performance for more than a decade.
The QTrencher range is also compatible with SMD Artemis, providing enhanced situational awareness and operational insight throughout trenching campaigns. Its control system is ready to support future automation developments as customer requirements evolve.
Combined with SMD’s dedicated A-frame launch and recovery system, the QT1600 delivers the reliability, versatility and efficiency required for complex offshore cable burial projects around the world.
To learn more about the QT1600, please contact Matthew Woodward at matthew.woodward@smd.co.uk
