At SMD, we create and deliver technologies that support the evolution of the underwater sector. With a responsible approach and an open mind, we overcome barriers with innovative solutions while maintaining a ‘least impact’ approach.
One such challenge is the sustainable and economically viable collection of subsea minerals. Necessary for the continued development of wind farms, electric vehicles and solar infrastructure, the clean energy transition will soon see demand for subsea critical minerals increase to supplement dwindling on-land resources. Subsea mineral collection offers a potentially necessary alternative.
However, many collection methods are considered to be disruptive and inadequately efficient. This is something we are committed to changing.
The SMD QC Nodule Collector is designed to accurately gather nodules from deep waters while minimising the impact on the underwater environment. Using a unique nodule separation method, these vehicles create the minimum disturbance necessary to harvest nodules, without compromising the efficiency and economic viability of collection operations.
During recent stage two testing of the QC Nodule Collector, which incorporates our innovative eductor design, a new standard in nodule transportation was set.
At the minimum power operating point, collection efficiency rates of 98% and above were consistently achieved. In leaving more power for the rest of the vehicle, operational costs were reduced, and the performance of the entire system was optimised. Stones ranging from 14mm to 90mm were used to represent nodules of varying dimensions. During this test, the eductor design exhibited an ability to transport a wide range of materials at high abundance levels, without blockages.
These exceptional results build upon the 97% collection rates recorded during stage one testing of this technology, demonstrating vital progress towards achieving our goal of optimised nodule collection.
Our Principal Engineer of Minerals Technology, Ian Maskell, explained: “Our ongoing development of a pioneering QC Nodule Collector range reflects our commitment to innovating ‘least impact’ technologies that offer sustainable solutions to subsea challenges.
“Underwater mineral collection could play a vital role in the clean energy transition, due to the high-quality mineral content of deep-sea polymetallic nodules. In developing vehicles that harvest these resources while minimising seafloor disruption, this could provide an alternative to human-dependent land-based extraction processes.
“With the continued support of our partners and the subsea mineral collection community, we look forward to refining this technology and testing a full collection system in the near future.”
To find out more about our nodule collection range, download the brochure or contact Ian Maskell.
