3.6.4 Connectors
Connect ion cable to tension cable
As will be discussed later, it is most favorable for installation
to have a quick and easy connection between these
two cables. Therefore the next concept is suggested.
A connection piece will be mounted to the end of the connection
cable. Then it can be bolted around the tension
cable with pretension in order to prevent the connection
to slide along the tension cable. In Figure 3.77 a sketch is
shown of the concept.
The bolted connections could be replaced by another
connection. At the connection cable side the connection
piece may be hinged, for example. As mentioned before,
fatigue at this point might be an issue; for this reason this
connection will require extra attention in the next phase.
The bolted connection could also be welded, but when
this has to be done on the vessel it is less favorable.
Connect ion cable to bottom of skirt
This concept is similar to the one described above. The
difference is that now a connection is added for a cable/
rope going to the buoyancy element (see Figure 3.78). The
advantage for this connection is that more time is available
to mount it, since it can be done in advance.