Renewable Energy sources are more and more sought after. In a drive to reduce the carbon footprint of energy production, governments and utilities companies have been spending time, effort and lots of money toward the development of ‘green’ energy sources. Additional reason for developing alternative sources of energy is political in nature. Countries depending on energy import seek independence from countries that sell their natural resources not only for financial gain but also for political influence.

Wind and wave are examples of green energy sources where FibreMax is in the forefront of the developments. After the development of windfarms both on-shore and in shallow water the focus has shifted towards deeper water. Floating platforms and Tension Leg Platforms (TLP) are ready to be tested and commercialized. FibreMax is heavily involved in several TLP designs.

FibreMax light weight synthetic fibre mooring tethers offer significant benefits compared to conventional steel wire rope.

• 80% to 90% lower weight than steel wire rope *)
• 10% smaller diameter than steel wire rope *)
• 30% lower weight than braided ropes *)
• 30% smaller diameter than braided ropes *)
• No construction stretch
• No “bedding in”
• Accurate production length (tolerance 2-3 mm)
• Maximum EA at 5% of MBL
• Can be used till 90% of MBL
• No yarn on yarn abrasion
• No maintenance required
• Easy handling and installation due to light weight
• Less installation time and cost
• More payload for TLP, or smaller/lighter TLP construction
• No marine growth on tethers
• Lifespan covering tens of millions loadcycles (25 to 30 years)

*) When compared at the same break load

Wave buoys are tethered by FibreMax cables, that transmit the wave power to pumps that generate electricity through a hydro-electric generator. FibreMax tethers are first choice here as they are able to withstand the millions of loadcycles and allow easy handling and installation.

FibreMax is pleased to offer a small contribution towards sustainability and a lower worldwide carbon footprint.