Standardised DBM (illustration: Trelleborg)

Trelleborg’s offshore operation recently developed a new Standardised Buoyancy Module system to reduce lead times for customers. An innovative “off the shelf” solution, it offers a viable alternative to custom options for some projects.

The Standardised Buoyancy Module is made up of small elements that stack together to increase the overall uplift of the complete distributed buoyancy module. The buoyancy segments are designed to mechanically lock around the clamp to securely attach the assembly to the desired location on the riser.

Jonathan Fox, Senior Product Development Engineer with Trelleborg’s offshore operation, states, “We recognised a requirement to deliver buoyancy products in less time for projects with short lead times. Through our customised innovation process, we were able to qualify and standardise a buoyancy module for subsea or surface applications that can be delivered in around half the time of a typical buoyancy module. In addition, we were able to ease handling of the buoyancy modules by incorporating synthetic rubber feet to the bottom of the finished assembly to prevent handling damage and reduce assembly time.”

“Because the product consists of known volumes and up thrusts, we are putting the upfront engineering into the hands of our customers, reducing the time needed to achieve an approved product design,” adds Fox.

The Standardised Buoyancy Module system can be adjusted to operate in seawater depths from surface to 2,500 metres by adding or removing elements based on customer specifications. The new “off the shelf” option reduces lead times and costs for customers looking for quality buoyancy with a quick delivery. For complex projects with undetermined volumes and up thrusts, custom engineered buoyancy modules are recommended to ensure performance.

Tags: Trelleborg