29 Nov 2025
INNOMOTICS LARGE DRIVES AND MOTORS LIMITED

THRUSTER DRIVE RETROFIT TO ENSURE LONG-TERM OFFSHORE RELIABILITY

Innomotics has been awarded its first order for a water-cooled retrofit project from offshore accommodation specialist Floatel International. The upgrade will extend the operational lifetime of one of Floatel International’s semi-submersible accommodation rigs by modernising its existing thruster drive control systems.

The project is primarily focused on ensuring long-term operational reliability. It covers six drives, including the replacement of the discontinued CU320 main control units and LOGO PLC control in the cooling unit, upgrading to the modern CU320-2 controller. With the CU320-2 Upgrade Kit, spare part availability is secured, the lifetime of both applications and processes are extended, and a solid interface for digitalisation and remote services will be available. By implementing these controller upgrades, Innomotics will help Floatel International to reduce the risk of long downtime periods and ensure that the rig remains fully operational for years to come.

Delivery is planned for February 2026, with installation taking place onshore in the Bergen area.

“This project is a clear example of how targeted modernisation can deliver maximum value to our customers,” said Erik Smestad, Project Service Specialist at Innomotics. “By replacing obsolete systems before failures occur, we help our customers maintain uninterrupted operations and avoid costly downtime. For Floatel International, this retrofit ensures that the accommodation rig remains reliable and ready for many more years of service.”

The upgrade will combine new hardware, software, and reprogramming, ensuring the drive systems meet modern standards and eliminating the risks associated with discontinued components.

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This article appeared in Renew magazine. To read more or request your personal digital or print edition of Renew, click here.

 

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