Distributed buoyancy clamping system When buoyancy modules are attached to flowlines or umbilicals it is imperative that they don’t penetrate the outer layer which may be performing a protection or insulation role.
Balmoral Offshore Engineering has designed a new generation of clamps which ensures the optimum clamping pressure is maintained throughout the design life. These clamps are designed to resist axial and, when required, torsional loads. These requirements are met by introducing a low stiffness high strength radial spring - preloaded at installation - maintaining the correct load during the service life of the installation.
The body of the clamp is partially enclosed in polyurethane which, in addition to providing a resilient contact between the clamp and the buoyancy module, acts as a hinge to assist with the installation of the clamp. The clamp design also includes dynamic amplification factors (DAF’s) for installation and in-service conditions.
Balmoral clamps are supplied as complete units with no loose parts, other than the fasteners, and can be installed on the riser using the supplied hydraulic installation tools in less than three minutes.
