Corrosion protection for submerged chains

Imenco Corrosion Technology’s ‘Pacu’ product is designed to be attached to mooring chains. Comprised of ICT’s well-known Piranha clamp and an integrated bracket-mounted sacrificial anode, the solution will dramatically extend the lifespan of mooring chains.

Currently the unpredictable rate of corrosion on existing mooring chains is widely accepted, with costly and time consuming replacements taking place but not solving the problem of a high turnover in the lifespan of chain and corrosion-related failure rates of mooring systems.

The product has undergone significant internal and external testing and with a move from qualification to commercialization, operators can now take advantage of the full ICT package, including computer modelling, testing, installation, and verification of the protection.

Prior to launch, ICT worked with a major international operator to complete a Technology Qualification Project with the objective of de-risking an anode retrofit solution for mooring chains. The project demonstrated that cathodic protection and the use of Pacu provided a viable solution for operators.

ICT’s Pacu is applicable to all geographical regions, but particularly in those locations where problems with rapid corrosion have been identified as being common.

The use of Pacu will reduce the risk of mooring system failures while providing a cost-effective solution, which can be easily retrofitted to existing chains. The cathodic protection of chains opens up the opportunity to reduce corrosion allowances, thereby enabling thinner chains to be used in new and replacement systems. This leads to less weight and therefore less equipment needed for handling, transportation, and installation, reducing the carbon footprint of operations.

Nils Olav Digre, Vice President, Imenco, said: “This technology signals the start of real change in not only what can be done, but how it can be done, and it will elevate the potential for cathodic protection to a wider market. Pacu will transform chain management, providing a cost-effective, flexible solution, while supporting the drive for greener operations within the energy industry. Following significant testing, we are pleased to introduce this fully commercialized product to market.”

Pacu has multiple applications within the Oil & Gas industry including near-shore moorings and permanently moored offshore structures, but also in other maritime industries, including offshore wind.

By Jake Frith