Basic Passive Heave Compensator
RIGEL is a basic passive heave compensator for predictable splash-zone crossings and standard subsea lifts. It is the go-to choice when the operation needs reliable dynamic-load reduction without adaptive or active control.
Rugged Simplicity
RIGEL is a single cylinder passive heave compensator unit, with a simple and reliable design, that has competitive advantages:
- Light weight
- Low cost
- Comparatively low stiffness
- Externally adjustable bi-directional damping
- Fast gas filling
- Overpressure protection
- Bi-directional end damping
55 - 1000 tonne
Maximum force
1 - 6 m
Stroke length
3000 m
Depth rating
∞
Adjustable damping

Classification
RIGEL basic passive heave compensator is designed, classed and tested according to DNV ST-0378.

All-in-one package
Cylinder, valves and accumulator integrated into one compact package that is well suited for rough offshore usage. Comes with shackles, lifting points and supportive feet.
Sustainability
RIGEL is compatible with biodegradable hydraulic fluids for environmentally sensitive operations. It is designed for a long service life with minimal maintenance, reducing waste and environmental impact.
Committed To Safety
We follow and exceed the testing requirements in DNV RP-N202. All Norwegian Dynamics subsea compensators have double seals to protect against water ingress. RIGEL features a relief valve that prevents overpressure, adjustable return damping that ensures safe retraction speeds and bidirectional end damping that protects the compensator from excessive shocks.
Engineered for the Field
Every detail of RIGEL is shaped by real-world offshore operations. Common failure points are eliminated, and maintenance is simplified for harsh environments.
- Biodegradable hydraulic fluid
- Rapid mobilization
- CFD-optimized damping
- Field-proven design updates
Application videos
Frequently Asked Questions
RIGEL Basic PHC is well suited for predictable splash-zone crossings and standard subsea landing/retrieval operations. It can also be used for simple shock-absorption duties.
RIGEL Basic PHC combines a hydraulic cylinder with a gas accumulator. The gas accumulator provides the spring effect while the oil flow is precisely controlled between the cylinder and accumulator to provide damping.
- Reduced leakage risk
- Easier and much faster filling of gas
- Easier and much faster filling of oil
- Easier air bleeding
- Lower stiffness
- Lower weight
- Externally adjustable extension damping
- Externally adjustable return damping
- Lifting points for easier handling
- Support feet to avoid rolling
- Better filling kit
- Easier to use calculation sheet
Request Further Information
RIGEL configurations from approximately USD 35,000. Lead time and project pricing depends on capacity, stroke and classification — fill in the form below and we’ll send drawings, datasheet and a project-specific quotation.
