Imagenex Sonar Systems Are Highly Capable in Subsea Pipeline Inspections

As noted in an article in Ocean News & Technology July 2025 Special Edition, Imagenex Technology Corp. 831L and 831A sonar units are put on Blueye X3 and SEAMOR Chinook ROVs designed for subsea pipeline inspection shortening inspection time while improving data quality and safety. “Applications include inspection of stormwater outfalls and complex pipelines where inspection time is reduced by as much as 60% while improving data quality and safety,” Ocean News & Technology July 2025 Special Edition reported.

Imagenex Technology Corp. has long been considered an innovator in high-resolution sonar imaging solutions for maritime operations since 1988, and continues to make strides forward with subsea inspections and operations using its products.

Integrating 831L Sonar with Blueye X3 ROV

Recent inspection of stormwater outfall tunnels involved the lightweight Blueye X3 ROV equipped with an Imagenex 831L sonar unit of 2.25 MHz frequency that provided full 360-degree scans in 1.3 seconds for seamless navigation through tight pipe structures.

PipeSonarL software generated real-time 2D profiles with millimeter accuracy. Paired with a Doppler Velocity Log, it tracked ROV movement to generate detailed 3D point clouds - providing an alternative, low-power method to traditional diver-based methods.

831A Sonar on SEAMOR Chinook ROV

Crews utilized the SEAMOR Chinook ROV equipped with the Imagenex 831A sonar for longer and more complex pipeline sections, operating at 2.25 MHz with 1-second scan cycles and 1.4-degree conical beam coverage; depth-rated at 1000 meters.

These cameras captured clear profiles in murky waters, providing vital services in municipal utilities, hydropower, and offshore energy sectors. Both integrations reduced crew requirements while improving portability.

Efficiency Gains and Industry Impact

These deployments reduced inspection times by as much as 60

Imagenexs reputation as an innovator in sonar is built upon landmark achievements like its 1995 digital color imaging sonar and Delta T multibeam series, both providing real-time 3D visualization for scientific, commercial, and search-and-rescue purposes.

Recently introduced improvements include gyro-stabilization in models such as the 881A-GS and 881L-GS that compensates for vehicle motion in real time, providing more clear imagery from moving platforms.

Product Portfolio and Market Share.

Imagenex offers a diverse range of sonar systems, such as multibeam systems like the 837BXi and Delta T series; sidescan options like YellowFin and BlackFin; as well as profiling sonars designed specifically for ROVs and AUVs.

Marine Technology Reporter and News have recognized us with 2025 awards. Our focus remains depth capability, compact size and affordability as we serve global maritime sectors.