Floating wind platform developer X1 Wind has partnered with mooring line manufacturer FibreMax.
X1 Wind’s floating wind system features passive weathervaning and self-orientation capabilities, achieved through the integration of a single point mooring (SPM) system with a small tension leg platform (TLP) mooring system.
The Spanish outfit is making “rapid progress” developing its pre-commercial and commercial units, while its earlier X30 device was “recognised as the world’s first fully functional floating wind TLP to export electricity”.
One of the key benefits of X1 Wind’s TLP is the vertical mooring tendons which ensure a small seabed footprint, enhancing compatibility with other marine activities, like fishing, while also allowing for a larger number of platforms to be placed within a given offshore area – increasing energy capacity.
The latest collaboration with FibreMax will now explore opportunities to boost performance and sustainability of its mooring configuration with the introduction of synthetic cables, with improved strength, durability, low-weight and no-creep characteristics.
Crafted with circular or recyclable materials, the company’s cables will further enhance the floating wind platform’s green credentials.
FibreMax uses robotic equipment to wind synthetic fibres around the integrated end-terminations, delivering a cable that is 85% lighter than steel, rust-resistant, maintenance-free, and built to last more than 30 years.
X1 Wind chief executive Alex Raventos said: “Partnering with major supply chain manufacturers like FibreMax is of the utmost importance for X1 Wind, as it enables us to design our floating solution with state-of-the-art components and materials that can be mass produced, in this case specifically for our TLP tendons.
“This MoU not only strengthens our commitment to advancing floating offshore wind technology but also opens new possibilities for innovation and sustainability together with FibreMax.”
FibreMax director of renewable energy Sander van Helvoort said: “FibreMax is thrilled about this partnership, as we have built a strong relationship with X1 Wind over the past few years.
“We are now taking the next step to collaborate even more closely.
“Both companies are fully committed to advancing innovation, circularity, industrialisation, and global supply chain development, with a shared vision that aligns perfectly for FibreMax and X1 Wind.”