Subsea Cable and Flowline Protection System

Subsea cable protection is a modular interlocking tubular cable product designed to protect subsea flowlines, power cables, fibre optic cables, and umbilicals from abrasion and impact. Their customizable hardness, resilience, and environmental resistance make them an ideal choice for long-term protection of subsea cables and flowlines.

Role of polyurethane protective tubes

• Submarine cable protection in offshore wind farms

Offshore wind power cables carry high-voltage electricity from turbines to substations and the onshore grid. These cables are susceptible to mechanical damage during installation and exposure to environmental forces, including currents, wave movement, and interactions with the seabed. Polyurethane protective tubes are installed around these cables to:

Absorb and disperse impact forces during deployment and seabed touchdown.

Minimize friction and abrasion caused by contact with the seabed or structural supports.

Prevent premature wear at critical locations, including cable bends and entry points to j-tubes, to ensure optimal performance.

• Flowline and umbilical protection in offshore oil and gas

Flowlines and umbilicals used in offshore oil extraction must remain operational for years, often in deep-sea conditions. Polyurethane protective sleeves are applied to these lines to:

Shield the pipe structure from collision damage and external loads.

Maintain the integrity of the pipe coating against long-term rubbing or vibration.

Enhance support at vulnerable junctions or transitions near risers and platforms.

Key advantages of polyurethane protective tubes

• Customizable hardness (50A – 70D)

The hardness of polyurethane can be adjusted based on project needs. Softer grades (around 50a) provide higher flexibility and shock absorption, ideal for dynamic cable applications. Harder grades (up to 70d) offer excellent structural support and abrasion resistance for stationary or high-pressure installations.

• High resilience and flexibility

Polyurethane materials can deform under load and recover their shape without cracking or breaking. This resilience is critical in dynamic marine environments where subsea cables and pipelines are subject to constant movement and strain.

 • UV and environmental resistance

Polyurethane offers excellent resistance to UV rays, saltwater, and microbial degradation. This ensures long-lasting protection, even for components that are intermittently exposed to sunlight or installed in shallow, biologically active waters.

• Modular and easy to install

Polyurethane protection systems can be manufactured in interlocking or split designs, allowing for easy assembly and disassembly during subsea operations. This modularity helps reduce installation time and allows for selective replacement if necessary.

• Extended service life for cable outlet pipes

At transition points where subsea cables exit j-tubes or risers, polyurethane tubes provide essential reinforcement and wear resistance. By protecting these high-stress zones, the system prevents premature failure and extends the overall service life of the cable infrastructure.

Submarine protective tubes are a proven solution for ensuring the safety, durability, and efficiency of offshore wind power cables and offshore oil flowlines. Their impact resistance, customizable hardness, UV stability, and high flexibility make them suitable for various underwater protection needs. As the offshore energy industry continues to grow, the demand for reliable cable and pipeline protection solutions like polyurethane tubes will only become more essential.