Last August, we received an unusual request from an engineering firm working with Shell Oil on a new oil and gas platform. They wanted to know if we could build a semi-circular bumper system for risers used in deep sea drilling. Ocean currents were causing their piping to move within their riser clamp and imposing excessive stress on both the piping and platforms.
They were looking for pad bumpers for 16″, 18″, 24″ and 30″ pipe. We had never done anything like it, it looked very difficult, and there was tremendous risk if we did not deliver; so of course we told them “No problem” and provided a design and quotation. We guessed we could figure out the details if the order came in. Sure enough we got the order, but in addition to the pressure of having to make a completely new part, we were facing a 3 week deadline!
The design was simple, but manufacturing a bit trickier. It took many trials and error (the swearing and cursing helped) to come up with the right method. By layering the pad on a custom steel mandrel and rolling the stainless steel shims to a set arc, we were finally able to achieve the desired shape. To ensure a tight uniform adhesion between the pad and shim, each layer was wrapped tightly with fabric. The finished half-moon pad assembly was then trimmed to the proper length.
With the combined herculean effort by our engineering department and shop we were able to design and build a completely new part and meet the very tight delivery schedule.
Please remember, just because it is not in our catalog doesn’t mean it can’t be done! We always look forward to receiving your difficult requests! Standard products ain’t no fun, so please keep them coming!
The design was relatively simple and consisted of four cylindrical layers of our 40 Durometer Bridge Bearing Natural Rubber pads 1″ thick separated by 0.06″ thick 316 stainless steel rolled shims.
Matthew Cotter Sales Manager