Remote Operated Vehicles (ROVs) have transformed underwater exploration by offering unmatched versatility and performance. This guide breaks down the various ROV classes, highlighting their features, uses, and which one is best suited for your needs.

Entry-Level ROVs

Overview: The smallest and most affordable ROVs, are designed for hobbyists and beginners. These miniature vehicles are perfect for personal exploration and hobbyists. 

  • Payload: Minimal. Up to 2 kg.
  • Deployment: <5 min, very easy.
  • Battery: 1-2 hours.
  • Depth: 150 m.
  • Accessories: Basic cameras, lights.

Applications:

  • Hobbyist exploration.
  • Basic visual inspections in shallow water.
  • Recreational underwater photography.

Mini/Portable ROVs

Overview: These ROVs weigh under 40 pounds and are popular for their portability. They are ideal for more advanced hobbyists and professionals needing a compact, easy-to-deploy vehicle for tight spaces.

  • Payload: 5 kg.
  • Deployment: <10 min, quick and solo.
  • Battery: 2-4 hours.
  • Depth: 200 m.
  • Accessories: Cameras, sonar, manipulators.

Applications:

  • Small-scale underwater inspections.
  • Environmental monitoring and research.
  • Quick-deploy search and rescue.

Inspection/Lightwork ROVs

Overview: Inspection/lightwork ROVs are designed for detailed ocean exploration and executing tasks. With a depth rating of up to 500 meters, they carry larger payloads than entry-level and mini ROVs. Popular models like the SRV-8 and SRV-8X are used across many industries, such as defense, law enforcement, and offshore oil & gas.

  • Payload: 20 kg.
  • Deployment: 5-10 min, quick and solo-operable.
  • Battery: 6-8 hours (topside power available).
  • Depth: up to 500 m.
  • Accessories: Multi-beam imaging sonar, USBL navigation, manipulator arms, HD cameras, non-destructive testing, acoustic tracking, and mine disposal.

Applications:

  • Industrial inspections (e.g., pipelines, ship hulls).
  • Underwater mapping and surveys.
  • Recovery of objects.
  • Defense operations, including mine-neutralization.
  • Non-destructive inspections and testing.
  • Marine research including environmental monitoring.

Heavy Work-Class ROVs

Overview: Built for the most demanding tasks, these powerful ROVs can operate at depths of up to 3500 meters. They are designed for deep-sea exploration and heavy-duty underwater work.

  • Payload: 250 kg.
  • Deployment: 1-2 hrs, crew required.
  • Battery: Unlimited (umbilical).
  • Depth: 6,000 m.
  • Accessories: Advanced tools, manipulator arms, sonar.

Applications:

  • Heavy-duty repair and maintenance (e.g., oil rigs).
  • Deep-sea exploration and salvage.
  • Construction support in extreme conditions.

Conclusion

Choosing the right ROV depends on your specific needs. Whether you’re a hobbyist, a professional, or an industry specialist, there’s an ROV class to suit your goals. Entry-level and mini ROVs offer portability and accessibility, while inspection/lightwork and heavy work-class ROVs provide more power and functionality for demanding tasks. Let our team help you find the right ROV for your operations, Contact Us.