The patent covers a combination of mechanical and operational features that define Decom’s innovative approach to cutting—notably its linear drive cutting system, modular drive arrangement, and highly adaptable clamping methodology.
Established in 2011 and active in the oil and gas, renewables, and infrastructure sectors, Aberdeen-based Decom has completed more than 150 projects with a 100% success rate in clean subsea cutting operations. Its highly maneuverable C1 Chopsaw range can cut materials up to 46” diameter, including through carbon steel, duplex, and plastic coatings.
At the center of the Chopsaw technology is a linear-drive cutting head, which feeds the blade directly into the structure being cut. Unlike traditional Chopsaws that rely on a pivoting or rotational motion, the Decom system uses a controlled linear movement to guide the blade through the material—greatly improving control, precision, and consistency.
By managing how the blade engages with the material, the system delivers clean, reliable cuts across a wide range of applications—addressing one of the main historical weaknesses of traditional Chopsaw solutions.
The patent also protects the system’s cutting drive arrangement, which integrates the motor, blade, and drive components into a modular assembly. This design allows major elements of the cutting system to be removed or replaced on-site, enabling rapid maintenance or reconfiguration during operations.
The patent covers adaptable clamping arrangements, enabling a single saw to cut a wide variety of materials, diameters, and structures, making the technology adaptable across a broad range of applications, including small umbilicals, large mooring chains, and conductors. The ability to clamp above and below the cut line creates a stable, tension-free cutting zone, which improves safety in complex or unstable structures, for example, industrial piling.
The technology also supports multiple cutting modes through configurable drive arrangements, including high-speed, low-torque cutting designed to optimize cutting performance.
Nick McNally, Managing Director of Decom Engineering, said the patent represents an important milestone for the company’s technology development.
He said: “Our aim has always been to develop cutting technology that is robust, adaptable, and capable of performing in the most challenging environments. The patent is important for safeguarding our leading position in the cutting market and reinforces our ability to protect our engineering advantage.
“The United States is widely regarded as one of the most rigorous and competitive patent jurisdictions, and approval provides strong validation of the uniqueness and robustness of Decom’s technology. It also ensures the company can protect its intellectual property in a market where we are successfully expanding our operational footprint and securing wider client recognition.”
Decom has further patent applications covering the same technology progressing in multiple international jurisdictions, with the aim of ensuring the company retains control of its innovative technology in a competitive global market.
