October 7, 2025
The Challenge
Our client, Leask Marine, was conducting Pre-Lay Grapnel Runs ahead of installing two export cables for a North Sea wind farm and approached us looking for a solution that enabled accurate tracking of their grapnel train within a narrow corridor. They required a system that provided complete visibility of the grapnel train’s position at all times, enabling them to ensure it remained within the programmed route over an 80-kilometre run.
Overview and Solution
Without clear visibility of the grapnel train’s position, PLGR operators cannot react immediately if it deviates from its pre-programmed route. This increases the risk of the train straying into no-go areas, which can lead to serious compliance issues, resulting in fines, equipment damage, and costly delays. Such delays can be significant, particularly when operators are required to repeat sections of the intended route. In offshore operations, where time is a major expense, unplanned re-runs can be the difference between a profitable and a loss-making project.
Given the risk of both compliance issues and financial consequences, our client needed access to data that would give them confidence that the grapnel train was precisely where it needed to be throughout the Pre-Lay Grapnel Runs.
Utilising acoustics to send a signal to a vessel towing the grapnel train, the Stingray Acoustic Positioning Grapnel enabled our client to monitor the position of their grapnel train at all times, providing reassurance that the full assembly remained on track.
This eliminated uncertainty around route deviations and significantly reduced the likelihood of costly re-runs. By providing live data confirming that the grapnel assembly was progressing along its intended route, the client could act immediately if any deviations occurred.
“We approached DLM to enquire about the Stingray, as we were looking for a way to track our grapnel train throughout Pre Lay Grapnel Runs, operating in a narrow corridor. DLM were quick to react and fast-tracked the manufacture of the Stingray, delivering it on time for our project.” – John, Leask Marine
Results and Benefits
The Stingray provided our client with the capability to track the positioning of their grapnel train throughout the Pre-Lay Grapnel Run, successfully ensuring:
- There was no damage to the Grapnel Train arrangement or any associated equipment.
- The surrounding environment, wildlife, and local pipelines weren’t impacted.
- Our client avoided penalties and complied with regulatory requirements.
- Costly delays were avoided, as unplanned re-runs weren’t required.
Client Feedback
“The Stingray gave us complete confidence throughout the operation. By tracking the grapnel train, we were reassured that it was exactly where it needed to be, clear of restricted areas. We were impressed by how reliable and accurate it proved to be, protecting both our equipment and surrounding infrastructure.” – John, Leask Marine
DLM’s Stingray was attached to the Grapnel Train arrangement throughout the PLGR application.
Close-up image of the Stingray attached to Leask Marine’s Grapnel onboard the vessel.
If you would like to learn more about the Stingray Acoustic Positioning Grapnel and how it could support your operations, our dedicated team is ready to provide detailed guidance. Get in touch using the button below.
