Ambipar, a global leader in environmental solutions, and SBM Offshore, a key player in the ocean infrastructure sector, have jointly unveiled an advanced robotic solution for cleaning cargo oil tanks on floating production, storage, and offloading (FPSO) units, aiming to set a new industry standard in safety and sustainability.
The company issued a release with the announcement on Aug. 11.
Traditionally, tank cleaning requires workers to enter confined spaces under extreme heat, often while exposed to hazardous chemical residues, conditions that pose significant health and safety risks. According to the companies, the newly developed system replaces this manual process with remotely operated robots, enabling cleaning to be conducted without any human entry into the tanks.
The robotic technology has already been deployed successfully on an operational FPSO, where it removed heavy oily sludge while the onboard team monitored operations in real time from a safe location outside the tank. This remote, 24-hour monitoring capability eliminates one of the most dangerous steps in offshore operations, reducing the risk of confined space incidents and potential casualties.
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By streamlining the cleaning process, the new system reduces both operational downtime and associated costs. Rogério Calderaro, Head of Global Industrial Services at Ambipar, stated, “This robotic solution marks a turning point for the offshore industry. By automating a traditionally hazardous process, we are not only enhancing safety but also boosting operational efficiency and reducing environmental impact. It’s a clear demonstration of how innovation and responsibility can go hand in hand.”
The solution not only addresses safety concerns but also supports the oil and gas sector’s transition toward more sustainable practices. By reducing human exposure to toxic environments and limiting environmental risks, the initiative aligns with global calls for safer, greener offshore operations.
According to Jaap-Harm Westhuis, Technology, Innovation and Product Development Director at SBM Offshore, the partnership represents a strategic leap forward. “We are excited to announce this agreement with Ambipar. Together, we will be at the forefront of a new revolutionary approach to deliver cutting-edge solutions to eliminate human-related risks while delivering complex tasks such as the cleaning of oil tanks on FPSOs.
“This collaboration will enable companies to offer much safer working conditions for their crew, whilst protecting the environment,” he noted.
