First Subsea has developed a new range of mooring line segment connectors that includes forged metal H-links and crossed H-links, and fabricated Pear / plate links for deepwater subsea mooring lines. The crossed H-link is designed specifically to eliminate the need for mooring line shackles.

Drawing on its metals forging research, First Subsea has designed the H-links to make it easier and quicker to handle chain-to-chain and chain to Ballgrab mooring connector links.

"We've updated the H-link design to bring it into line with the demands of today's mooring projects. The forged H-links are well-designed with a bevelled pin retention locking mechanism that reduces the risk of snagging as it goes over the stern roller. They are also a more durable alternative to rolled plate H-links,” explained First Subsea general manager, Brian Green.

Crossed H-link replaces shackles

The crossed H-link is intended to replace shackles in the mooring line.  “We've used our growing knowledge of the metals forging process to optimise the H-link's forging conditions. It combines the strength of a H-link with the flexible movement of a shackle.” observed Brian Green.

Pear / Plate link improved fabrication 

The First Subsea Pear or plate link is lighter and more robust than traditional plate links. Used for rope-to-rope and rope-to-chain connections, the link is fabricated such that it is capable of withstanding the rigours of the stern roller without splitting.

The First Subsea H-links and Pear / plate link connectors are available from Offspring International, tel: +44 (0)1384 415540.

For more information contact First Subsea on +44 (0)1524 387777 or e-mail:Brian Green at First Subsea.