Balltec uses RotaBolts on offshore system 14 March 2014

Balltec Ltd, a designer and manufacturer of high integrity mechanical connectors for use in particularly harsh environments, has fitted RotaBolt® measurement fasteners for the first time on a new offshore chain tensioner system.

The RotaBolts have been used on the main structural top yoke beam of the tensioner, which has a load capacity of 1,000 tonnes. Andrew Crowe, senior design engineer at Balltec commented: “Simplified installation using RotaBolts was a real bonus for the engineering department. It not only guaranteed the security of the joint, it has also enabled us to reduce vital checking time. What would have literally taken hours before can now be done in a couple of minutes.”

The bolted steel assembly weighs 20 tonnes and incorporates a self-contained power unit. It is described as being like an ROV, containing an autonomous electronic control module. The use of RotaBolts has significantly simplified the installation process and gives added assurance that the correct design load is being achieved across the critical bolted joint on the beam.

“RotaBolt® measurement technology is increasingly being used across a wide variety of applications to ensure structural integrity and dramatically reduce maintenance costs,” said Rod Corbett, managing director at RotaBolt®. “Wherever bolted joints are subject to pressure containment, fatigue, vibration or structural slippage, operators are now choosing the measured approach of RotaBolt® to achieve and maintain the correct tension across the joint."

Claire Aldridge Deputy Editor t: +44 (0) 1727 743 889

Having spent a decade in the fastener industry experiencing every facet – from steel mills, fastener manufacturers, wholesalers, distributors, as well as machinery builders and plating + coating companies, Claire has developed an in-depth knowledge of all things fasteners.

Alongside visiting numerous companies, exhibitions and conferences around the world, Claire has also interviewed high profile figures – focusing on key topics impacting the sector and making sure readers stay up to date with the latest developments within the industry.