DLM’s Tensile Link wins Innovation award

The sealed and pressure tested device features an internal data logger which enables it to measures the tensile load on subsea mooring lines.

Martin Halford, managing director of DLM, said: “It’s unique because it has an internal data logging system in it. Not only does it monitor the load it actually records that load internally as well.”

Launched in May, the battery powered device can be deployed at a depth of up to 3000m and enables load readings to be recorded at a maximum rate of 1Hz for periods of up to 12months, depending on the sample rate.

Available in load ranges from 5-200 tonnes, the Tensile Link is encased within a stainless steel shell and benefits from not having any cables. After recovery, any information stored can be download onto a PC.

Mr Halford said the product can be used with any type of mooring application, but is good for people in the oceanographic industry and those needing to understand a weather buoy report, currents and tidal surges.

“It enables them to economise the design of their weather buoys and determine how strong they should be, because they need to determine what kind of loads can be applied to it over a period of time.

DLM has already sold some units to the National Oceanography Centre in Southampton, other UK organisations involved in ocean sciences and in Japan.

By Rebecca Jeffrey