Offshore operations demand robust solutions to protect critical components from the relentless forces of the marine environment. At MPC, our non-metallic subsea bend stiffener restrictors (BSRs) are designed with precision and the customer's specifications in mind. Let's explore the innovative technology and numerous benefits of our polyurethane bend stiffener restrictors, setting a new standard in the offshore energy industry.

What Are Subsea Bend Stiffeners? 

Subsea bend stiffeners are crucial devices used in the offshore energy industry, including wind and petroleum sectors, to prevent the over-bending of umbilicals and cables at the point of termination. These non-metallic stiffeners are engineered to provide a gradual increase in stiffness from the tip to the base, ensuring that the umbilicals or cables do not exceed their minimum bend radius. MPC offers a wide range of bend stiffener assemblies, varying from as small as 8 inches per pound to as large as 15 feet per 1600 pounds.

Bend Stiffener Technology & Benefits

At MPC, we have continually advanced our bend stiffener technology, introducing completely non-metallic systems that incorporate a patented hose separation and retention system. This innovative technology offers several significant benefits over traditional steel terminations with epoxy potting:

1. Exceptional Durability: Polyurethane is renowned for its durability, withstanding harsh marine environments, saltwater exposure, and extreme temperatures. This ensures a longer lifespan for the bend stiffeners, reducing the need for frequent replacements.
2. Reduced Weight: Our polyurethane bend stiffener restrictors are significantly lighter than traditional steel counterparts, making them easier to handle and install. This reduced weight also translates to lower transportation costs and easier deployment in challenging offshore conditions.
3. No Need for Cathodic Protection: The absence of steel content in our polyurethane BSRs eliminates the need for cathodic protection, simplifying maintenance routines and cutting down on long-term operational costs.
4. Enhanced Flexibility and Resilience: Polyurethane offers superior flexibility and resilience compared to other materials, allowing our bend stiffeners to better absorb and distribute stress. This minimizes the risk of damage to umbilicals and cables, ensuring continuous protection.
5. Reduced Assembly Time: Our non-metallic bend stiffeners are designed for quick and efficient assembly, reducing installation time and labor costs. The simplified installation process ensures minimal downtime and faster project completion.
6. Precise Hose Separation: The patented hose separation and retention system ensures precise location and separation of individual hoses, enhancing operational efficiency and safety. This precise control helps maintain the integrity of the entire system.
7. Simplified Documentation: With no steel content, the levels of required documentation are significantly reduced, streamlining the procurement and compliance processes. This simplifies project management and regulatory adherence.

Custom Solutions for Offshore Challenges

MPC is committed to delivering custom solutions tailored to meet the specific needs of our customers. Whether dealing with static or dynamic surface or subsea applications, our engineering team designs in-house BSRs to ensure optimal performance and protection for your umbilicals and cables.

Conclusion

Polyurethane bend stiffener restrictors from MPC represent a significant advancement in offshore protection technology. With their exceptional durability, reduced weight, lower costs, enhanced flexibility, and ease of installation, our non-metallic BSRs offer a reliable and efficient solution for preventing over-bending in critical offshore components.

Contact us today to discover how our innovative bend stiffener restrictors can enhance the safety and efficiency of your offshore operations.