Engineering Precision: Developing the 200 mm Drill Tool
Saga Subsea was approached by a client with a challenging request: to drill a 200 mm diameter hole in a subsea structure with a wall thickness of 100 mm. While 200 mm is already a large dimension for drill tools, performing the operation subsea added significant complexity.

The task required precise control of the considerable force needed to penetrate the structure while maintaining stability underwater. This challenge led to the development of a large and powerful drill tool that also had to meet strict precision standards.

The engineering process began with concept sketches, both by hand and in 3D. These designs were reviewed and refined in close cooperation with the client to ensure all technical requirements were met and quality standards upheld.

The resulting 200 mm Saga Drilling Tool is a two-part system that can be mounted together. The magnet base can be placed separately or combined with the drilling unit as a single assembly, offering flexibility during subsea operations. The tool weighs approximately 45 kilograms in seawater and can be deployed from a seabasket and remotely operated by an ROV. Though robust in appearance, it is designed with advanced internal systems that enable accurate and reliable drilling under demanding subsea conditions.