EoW September 2013

Technologynews

▲ ▲ A spool of PV ribbon on Plasmait take-up s

▲ ▲ Managing director Doug Whyte

Research pays off

The success of Hydro Group’s existing HRC product line means the new connector is being considered for a number of projects currently under development. These all involve submerged interconnection with varying detail regarding systems architecture, but a common need for underwater interconnection with the ability to carry increasingly higher levels of power. The group plans to continue its strong level of investment into the development of HV connection infrastructure in order to enhance connection technology for subsea connection of offshore energy networks. This continued progression aims to help contribute to Hydro Group maintaining a leading position as a supplier of appropriate technology for the emergent applications. Hydro Group’s cable and connectivity solutions are developed to withstand the harshest environmental conditions, including salt water, solar effects, storm force winds and dynamic tidal and wave motion. These factors place extreme loads on the subsea systems, connectors and cables, resulting in the company’s connectors being designed and manufactured for flexibility and environmental endurance.

Hydro Group, Aberdeen, UK-based global design and manufacturer of underwater cables and connectors for subsea, underwater, topside and onshore applications, invested £300,000 into research and development in 2012, and has now developed the 36kV Dry Mate Hydro Bond Renewable Connector (HRC). Doug Whyte, managing director, said: “The new connector is a significant advance on our previous product, the HRC 12kV, with an impressive reduction in installation time from 24 hours to less than 12 hours, and its ability to carry three times more power.” The reduced installation time means the 36kV Dry Mate HRC is a lower risk, more cost effective and safer option, due to the reduction in offshore man hours. The connector has a 25-year operational lifespan and the ability to work at water depths of 100m and temperatures of -4oC to over 25oC. “The advancement of systems in the offshore renewable sector is at an incredibly progressive and evolving phase. There are, however, currently no standard interconnect products defined within this market. “Being first to develop any innovative product is always challenging, but the team at Hydro Group have taken advantage of this gap in the market, and established a forefront position in this area – providing extremely rewarding results,” added Mr Whyte.

Hydro Group Plc – UK Website : www.hydropgroupplc.com

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EuroWire – January 2012