First Subsea Achieves API 17L1 for Bend Stiffener Connectors

First Subsea bend stiffener connectors used for flexible riser and umbilicals and offshore wind cable connections are now certified as Load Transfer Devices under API 17L1 -the American Petroleum Institute’s specification for flexible pipe ancillary equipment. The certification sets a new benchmark for the performance of bend stiffener connectors in challenging and harsh offshore applications.

First Subsea’s bend stiffener connectors use ball and taper technology to provide a powerful grip for connections to I/J tubes, and for offshore wind: monopile interface and hang-off cable connections. The API 17L1 certification builds on First Subsea’s API Q1 and ISO9001:2008 quality management systems.

“API 17L1 is a major development in critical risk mitigation for any project involving bend stiffener connectors,” says John Shaw, managing director, First Subsea Ltd. “It marks the latest success in our commitment to produce bend stiffener connectors that excel in terms of ease of installation, in-service performance and quality.”

API 17L1 (First Edition, 2013) is an industry standard that determines the minimum requirements for the design, material selection, manufacture, documentation, testing, marking and packing of flexible pipe ancillary equipment. The certification involved a combination of a Design Verification activity by DNV GL; acting as an independent verification agent, and an audit undertaken by API of First Subsea’s manufacturing processes and procedures.

For more information on First Subsea and its range of market leading bend stiffener connectors call +44 (0)1524 387777, email: sales@firstsubsea.com and visit www.firstsubsea.com.

Released: 5th March 2015