Wire ropes have been described as complex machines requiring dedicated lubricants to perform.
Trials of a technologically advanced wire rope lubricant introduced to the international market by ROCOL have prompted highly positive feedback from a leading offshore contractor.
ROCOL, an established manufacturer of lubricants for global industries, says its biogen wireshield solution is winning plaudits for its extreme performance levels and green credentials.
The technology helps to protect wire ropes and other equipment from the onset of corrosion – a primary cause of equipment failure in most extreme environments found in offshore and subsea industries
Biogen Wireshield has already been the subject of praise from Fugro Subsea Services personnel after it was successfully trialled on ROVs (remotely operated vehicles) operating from its Grampian Surveyor vessel during deepwater operations off West Africa.
Now it has received similar feedback from vessel management aboard the Emas Chiyoda subsea installation and construction vessel Lewek Connector after it was deployed during operations in the Gulf of Mexico and Nigeria.
The feedback after utilisation is that: “Following lubrication, the wires involved were in and out of the sea many times, and the grease coating remained in a very good condition. It repels the sea water extremely well and is also environmentally considerate, which is a strong requirement of compliance with Company safety and environment policies.”
Environmentally acceptable lubricants are often quoted as having reduced performance capabilities when compared to traditional mineral oil lubricants.
“The air temperatures and humidity were high in the areas where the vessel was operating, but the grease showed no signs of degrading or becoming less viscous, and kept its structure extremely well.”
Brendan Kendrick, Business Development Director at ROCOL, said: “We’re delighted with this latest endorsement. It’s great to see another major player in the offshore industry recognise the quality, integrity, reliability and capability of our product.”
Wireshield is a US Vessel General Permit (VGP) compliant lubricant for wire ropes and other products such as ROV umbilicals.
Established more than 130 years ago, ROCOL is a manufacturer of lubricants and associated products across a number of sectors including the offshore, marine, automotive, aerospace, industrial, food and drink, transport and mining industries.