PU (polyurethane) submarine cable protection refers to the use of polyurethane-based systems to protect subsea cables and pipelines from damage in harsh marine environments.¹ These systems are an essential part of a comprehensive cable protection system (CPS).

Polyurethane is an ideal material for this application due to its unique properties, which allow it to withstand the demanding conditions of the seabed. Key characteristics include:

• Exceptional Durability: PU offers excellent resistance to abrasion, impact, and fatigue. This protects the cable from physical damage caused by rocky seabeds, dropped objects, fishing gear, and strong ocean currents.

• Corrosion Resistance: Unlike some metals, polyurethane is highly resistant to saltwater corrosion, ensuring long-term integrity and performance.

• Flexibility: PU can be molded into various shapes while maintaining flexibility. This is crucial for bend stiffeners and restrictors, which prevent cables from over-bending and buckling at connection points to rigid structures, such as wind turbine foundations or platforms.

• Hydrolysis Resistance: A key requirement for any material submerged for a long time, hydrolysis resistance prevents the material from degrading when exposed to water, thus ensuring a long service life.

• Versatility: PU can be formulated to achieve different densities and properties. This allows manufacturers to create components that are either buoyant or ballasted (weighted) to meet specific project needs for cable stability and positioning.

Applications of PU Submarine Cable Protection

PU protection systems are used in various applications, particularly in the offshore energy sector. Some common applications include:

• Cable Protection Sleeves: These are split, interlocking tubes that are fitted around the cable to provide continuous protection against impact and abrasion along its length.

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