Scottish engineering company Balmoral has developed a cable protection system (CPS) applicable to fixed-base offshore wind farms.
Balmoral’s in-house team, spanning product research and development, materials and testing specialists, has created an integrated CPS, which the company said is “unique”.
The patented system, which is available in three standard sizes, includes a combination of bend restrictors and a bend stiffener, foundation interface device, standard dynamic unit and a detachable pull head.
Fixed foundation solutions for varying apertures on monopile installations are available as well as J-tube and I-tube options for jacket structures.
The equipment will be designed, manufactured and brought together in-house before being tested on Balmoral’s test rig.
Balmoral product R&D manager Aneel Gill said: “Our systems are designed based on the fatigue limit state (FLS) and offer something different because of their unique diverless removal feature and the ability to account for free span caused by scour development.
“Our patented fibre reinforced technology adds stiffness to the system controlling the curvature during the project lifespan.
“This reduces the amount of movement experienced by the cable, improving fatigue performance and greatly reducing the risk of failure through the life of field.
“The low weight components of the system permit efficient transportation, handling and assembly on deck. The system also allows for diverless removal of the CPS should cable maintenance be required.”
Sales manager Ian Milne added: “From what we read in the press and glean from the available data, the scale of global opportunity is quite staggering.
“Considering what is already happening in Europe and Asia, to the potential that lies off the coasts of North and South America, the industry offers great prospects for companies that are willing to invest in new technology and innovative solutions – something we’ve been doing at Balmoral for many years.”