Aubin, a supplier of specialist chemicals to the energy industry, has launched a new installation system for the renewables market at All-Energy.
It has been designed as part of about £1million of investment into buoyancy lifting technology and is aimed at helping to instal and remove large or heavy structures in waters up to 328 feet; a market the firm thinks could potentially be global.
Managing director Paddy Collins said: “The concept for the Hybrid Gel system came about as a direct result of the feedback received on our Gel Lift system, launched last year.
“When combined with compressed air in a controlled system, very little gel can create significant lift/buoyancy. It could be an ideal tool for installing structures like the subsea support jackets used for offshore wind turbines.
“The Hybrid Gel system offers the potential for significant cost savings and risk reduction by eliminating the need for large cranes and barges.”
Aubin was set up at Ellon in 1987. It now employs 20 people and turns over £4.6million annually.