Sonomatic is excited to announce the acquisition of RotoTech, an innovative company specialising in the robotic Inspection, Repair and Maintenance (IRM) of risers, conductors and caissons in the splash zone. This acquisition enhances Sonomatic’s advanced toolbox of solutions, providing customers with safer, more cost-effective, and
environmentally sustainable alternatives to traditional methods.
Founded in 2019 by Simon Hartog in partnership with AI and Robotics Ventures, a subsidiary of PTTEP, RotoTech has quickly become a pioneer in solving splash zone challenges. Their flagship technology, the Roto Climber® Mk 1, is the lightest robotic solution available for IRM in the market. It offers a simple, vessel-free approach that requires minimal platform power and deck space, making it an ideal solution for offshore operators. The Roto Climber® Mk 1 is designed to ascertain the presence of defects in risers, conductors or caissons efficiently and cost-effectively. If no defects are detected, the asset can be scheduled for future inspection. However, if issues are identified, RotoTech’s Roto Climber® Mk 2 can be deployed, equipped with advanced cleaning, inspection techniques, and a specialist wrapping system for strengthening in cases of severe corrosion.
As the founder of RotoTech, I am thrilled to see our technology and vision integrated into Sonomatic’s global operations,” said Simon Hartog, Founder of RotoTech. “This acquisition marks a significant milestone for us, enabling RotoTech’s innovative solutions to reach a broader audience and continue evolving within a world-class organisation. Together, we will redefine industry standards for safety, efficiency and environmental responsibility.”
RotoTech’s innovative approach has garnered significant attention from major industry players such as PTTEP and Brunei Shell Petroleum, with notable achievements including the successful development and deployment of the Roto Climber® Mk 1 and Mk 2 systems, as well as the creation of a new UV-cured underwater pipe-strengthening tape deployed by robotics.
We are excited to welcome RotoTech into the Sonomatic family,” said James Butterworth, General Manager for Sonomatic E2i UK.” Their cutting-edge technology and expertise in the splash zone are a perfect complement to our existing capabilities. This acquisition aligns with our commitment to delivering the most advanced, accurate, and reliable solutions to our clients worldwide. We look forward to working together to push the boundaries of what’s possible in offshore inspection and maintenance.”
As part of Sonomatic, RotoTech will continue its mission of solving splash zone challenges, with Sonomatic serving as the delivery arm and R&D development centre. Validation and development of new technologies will take place at Sonomatic’s UK and Australia development centres. RotoTech’s technical SME and deployment supervisors will remain integral to the company’s continued success, ensuring seamless integration and ongoing innovation.
Sonomatic is committed to pushing the boundaries of technology and delivering unmatched solutions to its clients. With RotoTech now part of the Sonomatic family, we look forward to setting new standards in safety, accuracy and efficiency in the offshore industry.
Images left to right: Roto Climber® Mk 1, Roto Climber® Mk 2, Roto Climber® Mk 1 Mini
