Renewable Energy

Tried and Tested Ballgrab Mooring Systems

All First Subsea mooring systems are based on our patented ball and taper connector technology. Called Ballgrab, it operates on the simple principle of a ball engaged in a taper. As the male connector's balls roll up the connector's tapers, the tightness of the grip increases in direct proportion to the load applied. Once engaged the connectors cannot be released until the load is removed. This brings an often much needed flexibility to the mooring system where offshore marine devices need to recovered for maintenance.

In the field, the Ballgrab male tool, connected to the mooring line, is aligned into position and inserted to the female connector attached to the mooring pile or similar securing mechanism. The connectors are fully self latching without the need for diver intervention, and with minimal ROV intervention for visual checks. The connector's self-activating mechanism enables rapid deployment. Typically a ball and taper connection can take loads up to 19,000kN MBL (minimum breaking load) and is suitable for shallow water and deepwater depths of over 2,000m.
 

Flexible and Proven Subsea Connection Technology

The Ballgrab connector can also be integrated within the marine renewable device itself for securing the device to a mooring pile, for example. This has the advantage of enabling a quick connection, holding the device securely in position while further locking bolts are applied. Furthermore, should the need arise at some point in the future to recover the device, the Ballgrab's quick release mechanism can be used and the device quickly retrieved.

Dedicated Engineering Design Resource

A First Subsea mooring system is a combination of experience, design and adherence to international classification requirements for applicable authorities including ABS, DNV, BV and Lloyd's Register; underpinned by an industry-leading quality management programme. Our dedicated team of experienced design engineers has over 100 years experience in mooring systems design, applying FEA, fatigue analysis, and 3D modelling techniques to develop fully optimised mooring solutions. All mooring systems are tested in our in-house testing facility to the relevant certification authority requirement.