What are the specific tasks performed by divers during underwater inspection of WEC foundations?

Divers perform a range of specific tasks during underwater inspection of Wave Energy Converter (WEC) foundations. Primarily, they conduct visual inspections to identify any signs of damage, deterioration, or instability. This includes checking for cracks, corrosion, scouring around the base, and displacement of the foundation structure. They also assess the condition of any protective coatings or anti-fouling measures applied to the foundation. Divers perform close visual inspection (CVI) of critical areas, such as welds, joints, and connections. They take detailed photographs and videos to document the condition of the foundation and provide evidence for further analysis. Another crucial task is marine growth assessment, where divers identify and quantify the type and extent of marine fouling on the foundation. Excessive marine growth can increase drag forces and add weight, potentially affecting the stability of the WEC. Divers often use hand tools to remove samples of marine growth for analysis. They also perform non-destructive testing (NDT) techniques underwater, such as ultrasonic testing (UT) or magnetic particle testing (MPT), to detect subsurface cracks or defects in the foundation material. Divers may also take measurements of the seabed around the foundation to monitor for scouring or sediment accumulation. This can involve using sonar equipment or taking manual measurements with a sounding rod. Finally, divers may perform minor repairs or maintenance tasks, such as removing debris, tightening bolts, or applying patches to damaged areas.