Petrobras contracts Honeywell’s spectra fibre for new offshore oil and gas platforms
Honeywell’s Spectra fibre has been selected by Brazil-based Petrobras to use in ropes at its new offshore oil and gas platforms.
Rope maker Cortland will incorporate the high-performance fibre into its BOB 12×12 fibre rope, which will be used for the project as part of Rolls-Royce’s Fiber Rope Development System (FRDS).
In May, Rolls-Royce awarded the fibre rope contract to Cortland for use on its next FRDS, which is being built for AKOFS Offshore (AKOFS) and will be deployed on the Aker Wayfarer as part of a five-year contract with Petrobras.
Honeywell packaging and composites business product marketing manager Brent Gerdes said: “Honeywell Spectra provides the strength and durability needed for demanding oil and gas platforms like this offshore installation.
“Cortland and Honeywell have a long partnership in producing superior synthetic fibre rope for deepwater applications and this latest offering brings best-in-class performance, while reducing operating costs and maintenance in a demanding environment.”
“The waterproof fibre allows the rope to be used in water without gaining weight from moisture absorption.”
The new FRDS will leverage the strength of spectra fibre as part of a deepwater lifting and placement system with a single fall capacity of 150t.
Made from ultra-high-molecular-weight polyethylene (HMPE), the waterproof fibre allows the rope to be used in water without gaining weight from moisture absorption.
Spectra fibre is claimed to be resistant to chemicals and damaging ultraviolet light and has filaments that are larger in diameter.
Cortland rope and assembly business global sales vice-president Stuart Janke said: “By using Spectra fibre in the blend of high-performance fibres used in Cortland’s BOB rope, we are able to provide high-quality products and more value to our customers.”
source: Offshore-Technology