CS31 – Hiduron 130 – Stabplates

The successful subsea connection of umbilicals to Christmas trees on the ocean floor is a challenging task in offshore oil and gas production. The UK-based company MSCM Ltd have been designing and manufacturing subsea connectors for many years. One of their most popular products has been their Stabplate Assembly ROV Fly-To Place, where a remote operated vehicle (ROV) brings together the male and female parts of the stabplate. Multiple umbilical connections are made within the one unit. After the couplings are aligned, the ROV will operate the mechanical connection device using its torque tool, fully connecting the stabplate halves with sufficient pre-load to prevent separation under pressure loading.

The design of the stabplate calls for a demanding set of material properties:

• The umbilical lines may operate with fluid pressures up to 17,500psi, thereby requiring a high-strength mechanical connection.
• The combination of pressure and friction experienced by the mechanical connection device means that galling – where metal components stick or fuse together – is a significant risk.
• The device must also resist seawater corrosion and marine bio-fouling.

Hiduron^® 130, a high-strength cupronickel meets the requirements of mechanical strength, non-galling and corrosion resistant, plus is easier to machine than many other high-strength alloys. In addition, it is not susceptible to embrittlement by the hydrogen generated during cathodic protection. Finally, it is galvanically compatible to the other materials used within the stabplate assembly.

Hiduron^® 130 provides a unique combination of properties that are widely exploited in many different demanding applications.

If you’d like more information regarding the Hiduron^® 130, please get in touch with us today.