Products Dredging Equipment 6-inch subdredge

Subdredge Rov – Remote Operated Submersible Dredge 6 Inch

The 6-Inch EDDY Pump Subdredge is a remotely operated submersible dredge engineered for high precision, unmanned dredging in deep or hazardous environments. It delivers flow rates from 450 to 2000 GPM, handles solids up to 5 inches, and transports up to 40 to 70 percent solids by volume. With a head capability of up to 200 feet, rubber track mobility for liner-safe operation, and advanced onboard sensors with live video feedback, it is built for controlled, high-production dredging where safety and accuracy are critical.

Remote Operated Submersible Dredge 6 Inch

Operational Advantages of the 6-inch Subdredge

  • Handles solids up to 5 inches with consistent performance in dense slurry and sludge applications
  • Transports up to 40 to 70 percent solids by volume, reducing water usage and disposal volume
  • Operates at flow rates from 450 to 2000 GPM with head capabilities up to 200 feet
  • Remotely operated system removes personnel from hazardous or confined dredging zones.
  • Rubber track design supports liner-safe dredging on clay, poly, and concrete surfaces.
  • Integrated sensor package includes depth, pressure, orientation, and intrusion monitoring for real-time operational control.
  • Dual low-light cameras with LED lighting deliver clear visibility in high-turbidity conditions.
  • Optional cutterhead enables efficient dredging of compacted or hard materials.
  • GPS buoy and positioning options support accurate dredge path tracking and production monitoring
EDDY Pump Subdredge – Remote Operated Submersible Dredge

Gallery

Subdredge Rov – Remote Operated Submersible Dredge 6 Inch

Technical Specifications

Subdredge ROV from EDDY Pump used for remote underwater dredging

Performance Parameters

  • Flow Capacity: 450 – 2000 GPM
  • Head Range: Up to 200 ft
  • Production Rate: 150-200 cubic yards per hour
  • Percent Solids by Volume: 40–70%
  • Max Speed: 1,800 RPM
  • Ground Pressure: 4.2 PSI
Subdredge ROV from EDDY Pump used for remote underwater dredging
Submersible dredge used for precision material removal

Pump & Material Handling

  • Discharge Size: 6 in
  • Suction Size: 8 in
  • Maximum Solids Size: Up to 5 in
  • Fluid Types: Sludge, slurry, mine tailings, sand mixtures
Components and specifications of a remote-operated dredge system

Sensors & Monitoring

  • Hull Water Intrusion Sensor: With topside audible and visual alarm
  • Depth Sensor & Hydraulic Pressure Sensors
  • Swing Angle Sensor
  • Vessel Orientation Sensor: Pitch, roll, heading, temperature
  • Cameras & Lighting: Two low-light cameras with dual LED lights
  • GPS Buoy Positioning: Constant-tension buoy allows dredging up to 40 ft depth
Components and specifications of a remote-operated dredge system
Control system of a remote-operated submersible dredge (ROV) system

Control System

  • Wireless Controller: Handheld remote with redundant live control
  • Backup System: Ruggedized laptop with application-specific software
  • Safety Feature: Pneumatic lift bags for emergency retrieval
Submersible Dredge Power & Circuit Requirements

Power & Circuit Requirements

  • Pump Circuit Requirements: 75 GPM at 4000 PSI (180cc motor) from excavator auxiliary power or hydraulic power unit
  • Cutterhead Circuit Requirements: 12–20 GPM at 5,000 PSI
Submersible Dredge Power & Circuit Requirements
Submersible dredge operating on a canal, connected with hoses for slurry pumping

Optional Equipment

  • Acoustic imaging display for high turbidity water
  • Additional lighting or cameras
  • Magnetometer-type flow meter for production monitoring
  • RTK GPS with USBL acoustic positioning for real-time accuracy
  • Rotating cutterhead for hard compacted materials
Pump curve for 6-inch submersible dredge

EDDY Pump – 6 Inch Subdredge – Pump Curve

PUMP CURVE

The pump curve for the 6-inch Subdredge demonstrates its ability to maintain stable flow under demanding head conditions while handling high concentrations of solids. Designed for slurry, sludge, and dredging applications, the curve shows efficient operation from 450 to 2000 GPM, with a head capability of up to 200 feet. Performance is optimized for dense material transport rather than clean water, ensuring consistent production when handling abrasive, high-solids mixtures. Final pump curve selection should be matched to the actual material density and operating depth to maximize efficiency and reliability.

Pump curve for 6-inch submersible dredge
ENGINEERING ASSETS

Technical Drawings & Resources

Technical diagram showing components of a 6-inch remote-operated submersible dredge
Diagram illustrating parts of a 6-inch remote-operated submersible dredge head
Technical schematic of a 6-inch ROV dredge head

Comparison Table

Specification

4-Inch Subdredge

6-Inch Subdredge

8-Inch Subdredge

10-Inch Subdredge

12-Inch Subdredge

Min Flow (GPM)25045080012002600
Max Flow (GPM)12002000400050007300
Max Head (ft)160200200200180
Discharge Size4 in6 in8 in10 in12 in
Suction Size6 in8 in10 in12 in14 in
Max Solids Handling3 in5 in7 in9 in11 in
Max Speed 

(RPM)
1800180018001800900
Solids by Volume40–70%40–70%40–70%40–70%40–70%
Production Rate (yd³/hr)75–150150–200250–300300–350500–600
Max Horsepower (HP)1252505005001000
Pump Circuit Requirements32–35 GPM @ 5000 PSI (80cc)75 GPM @ 4000 PSI (180cc)130–150 GPM @ 5000 PSI (500cc)120–160 GPM @ 5000 PSI (500cc)160–200 GPM @ 5000 PSI (750cc)
Cutterhead Circuit Requirements12–15 GPM @ 5000 PSI12–20 GPM @ 5000 PSI12–20 GPM @ 5000 PSI12–20 GPM @ 5000 PSI12–20 GPM @ 5000 PSI

Serving Demanding Dredging Environments

Dredging

Dredging and Marine Construction

The 6-inch Subdredge is used for subsea excavation, channel maintenance, and sediment removal beneath bridges, piers, and vessels. Its remote operation and high solids capability allow precise dredging in deep water, restricted access zones, and high-risk marine environments, while improving safety and production control.

Mining & Mineral Processing

Mining and Mineral Processing

In mining operations, the Subdredge removes tailings, slurry, and settled solids from ponds and containment areas. Its ability to transport dense materials at high solids concentrations improves recovery efficiency, reduces water dilution, and minimizes downtime during ongoing extraction and processing activities.

Sand & Aggregates

Ports and Harbors

Designed for maintenance dredging below docks, berths, and active shipping areas, the Subdredge allows controlled sediment removal without diver involvement. Its compact submersible profile supports accurate dredging while maintaining port operations, vessel traffic flow, and structural integrity.

Sand & Aggregates

Oil and Gas

The Subdredge supports the disposal of sediment and drilling waste from pits, sumps, and offshore installations. Remote operation reduces personnel exposure in hazardous zones while the pump handles abrasive and corrosive materials common in oil and gas production environments.

Power & Utilities

Power Generation

Used for ash pond cleanout, cooling basin maintenance, and spent material handling, the Subdredge efficiently moves dense solids that conventional pumps struggle with. This helps power plants maintain operational capacity, extend asset life, and meet environmental and regulatory requirements.

Municipal Wastewater

Municipal and Wastewater

In municipal systems, the Subdredge removes sludge from treatment basins, lagoons, and clarifiers. High solids pumping reduces the need for dilution, improves process efficiency, and lowers transportation, handling, and disposal costs across wastewater treatment operations.

Chemical & Industrial

Industrial Manufacturing

Applied in heavy industrial facilities for process slurry transfer, waste removal, and basin cleanout, the Subdredge performs reliably with abrasive and variable material compositions. Its robust construction supports continuous operation in demanding industrial production environments.

Environmental Remediation

Environmental Remediation

The Subdredge is well-suited for liner-safe dredging of contaminated sediments in ponds, canals, and containment sites. Rubber tracks and precise remote control protect liners while enabling accurate material removal during environmental cleanup and site restoration projects.

Maintenance Dredging Beneath Active Port Infrastructure

Case Study

Aerial image showing the layout and activity of a major seaport

The Problem

A busy commercial port faced ongoing sediment accumulation beneath docks, berths, and mooring areas, reducing available draft and increasing the risk of vessel grounding and structural damage. Traditional diver-assisted dredging was unsafe due to constant vessel movement, poor visibility, and confined working spaces. Suspending port operations to dredge was not feasible, as it would disrupt shipping schedules, cargo handling, and revenue-generating activities.

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Remote-operated submersible dredge (ROV) removing mud and sand from rivers and lakes

The Solution

EDDY Pump implemented the 6-inch Subdredge to carry out precise, remotely operated dredging beneath active port infrastructure. The unmanned submersible system was guided from a safe location while pumping dense sediment at high solids concentrations. Its compact profile allowed access beneath docks and vessels, enabling controlled material removal without exposing divers or interfering with ongoing port traffic.

Remote-operated submersible dredge (ROV) removing mud and sand from rivers and lakes
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Thick brown drilling mud or slurry flowing from a large pipe

The Result

The port restored required depths beneath critical structures while maintaining continuous operations. The EDDY Pump 6-inch Subdredge significantly improved safety, reduced maintenance downtime, and delivered consistent production. The project extended the service life of port infrastructure, improved navigational safety, and provided a reliable long-term solution for ongoing maintenance dredging.

Call for sales or support

If you need assistance with pump selection, sales or engineering support, call 619-404-1916.

Questions? Talk to an Engineer

Frequently Asked Questions

What type of materials can the 6-inch Subdredge handle?

The EDDY Pump 6-inch Subdredge is engineered to pump slurry, sludge, sand mixtures, mine tailings, and sediment containing solids up to 5 inches in diameter. Its design supports high solids concentrations of approximately 40 to 70 percent by volume, allowing operators to move dense material efficiently without excessive water dilution, even in abrasive or variable material conditions.

What is the operating flow range of the 6-inch Subdredge?

The Subdredge operates within a flow range of roughly 450 to 2000 gallons per minute. Actual performance depends on factors such as material density, discharge distance, operating depth, hose configuration, and head requirements. This flexibility allows the unit to be tuned for precision dredging or higher production rates, depending on project requirements.

How deep can the 6-inch Subdredge operate?

The standard configuration allows operation at depths up to 40 feet using a floating GPS buoy and a constant-tension umbilical system. Deeper operating depths can be achieved with project-specific configurations, depending on hose length, power supply, and positioning requirements.

Is the 6-inch Subdredge safe for liner dredging applications?

Yes. The Subdredge is designed for liner-safe dredging and is commonly used in clay-, HDPE-, and concrete-lined ponds and basins. Its rubber track system distributes ground pressure evenly, reducing the risk of liner damage while maintaining stable movement and controlled material removal.

Does the Subdredge require divers to operate?

No. The EDDY Pump 6-inch Subdredge is fully remotely operated, eliminating the need for divers or personnel to enter hazardous or confined environments. Operators control the system from a safe location, significantly reducing safety risks associated with low visibility, strong currents, or unstable sediments.

What power source is required to operate the Subdredge?

The 6-inch Subdredge can be powered hydraulically or electrically, depending on site conditions and available infrastructure. Hydraulic operation typically requires approximately 75 GPM at 4000 PSI for the pump, with additional flow and pressure needed if a cutterhead is installed. Power requirements may vary based on configuration and accessories.

Can the Subdredge be equipped with a cutterhead?

Yes. An optional rotating cutterhead is available for projects involving compacted sediment, clay, or hard material layers. The cutterhead loosens material ahead of the pump inlet, improving solids intake and maintaining consistent production in challenging dredging conditions.

What monitoring and control systems are included?

The Subdredge is equipped with an integrated sensor package that monitors depth, hydraulic pressure, tank line pressure, swing angle, vessel orientation, and water intrusion. Dual low-light cameras with LED lighting provide visual feedback in turbid water, while operators manage the system through application-specific software using a handheld wireless controller and a ruggedized laptop.

How is positioning and accuracy maintained during dredging?

Positioning is maintained through a floating GPS buoy system that tracks the Subdredge location in real time. For higher accuracy requirements, optional RTK GPS and USBL acoustic positioning systems can be added, enabling precise dredge path control, depth consistency, and detailed production monitoring.

What industries commonly use the 6-inch Subdredge?

The 6-inch Subdredge is used across dredging and marine construction, ports and harbors, mining and mineral processing, oil and gas, power generation, municipal wastewater, industrial manufacturing, and environmental remediation. Its ability to safely transport high-solids material in confined or hazardous environments makes it suitable for a wide range of industrial dredging applications.

Get in touch for precision-built dredge and slurry pumps

At EDDY Pump Corporation, we promise innovative, reliable, and efficient pump solutions with exceptional service, ensuring optimal performance and minimal downtime in the most challenging environments.