A high count optical wet-mate HYDRALIGHT is currently under development with a maximum of 48 Angled Physical Contacts (APC) optical channels using a modular approach, announced SEA CON.
The external size is identical to the current standard field proven 8-channel HYDRALIGHT family of connectors with an increased fiber interface utilizing high density optic ferrules. The design is being driven initially through the need to optimize optical data transfer between the surface platform and a vast array of optical sensors that are deployed subsea.
KEY FEATURES
*3rd Generation optical wet mate connector
*APC contacts configurable up to a maximum of 48 channels per connector
*Synthetic mineral oil compensation fluid
*Highly compatible elastomers
*Field proven sealing mechanisms
*Oil filled and pressure balanced design
*Optical coupling within “joined chamber”
*Seawater compatible internal components
*ROV operable interface
*Linear latch and de-latch mechanism
*SEA CON® Precision MKII PBOF 13mm Hose interface
DESIGN RATINGS
*Depth Rating: 7,000m (23,000 feet)
*Design Life: 25 years
*Operating Temperature: -5ºC to +45ºC (23ºF to +113ºF)
*Storage Temperature: -25ºC to +60ºC (-13ºF to +140ºF)
*Maximum optical insertion loss of 0.5dB per channel
*Average optical insertion loss of 0.2dB per channel, with a standard deviation of 0.1dB
*Maximum optical back reflection of -45dB per channel
*Average optical back reflection of -50dB per channel, with a standard deviation of 4dB
OPERATION
*Typical mate stroke length: 122 mm (4.8″)
*Max rotational misalignment: 10º
*Max angular misalignment: 5º
*Max radial misalignment: 6.4 mm (0.25″)
*Max handling load: 2,500 N (560 lbs)
*Max ROV load: 5,000 N (1,120 lbs)
*Mating force: 64 kg force (140 lbs)
*De-mating force: 18 kg force (40 lbs)
*Compliant ROV handle
*Linear latch & de-latch mechanism
*Stab indication confirmed when visible orange color on bulkhead half is fully covered by the flying lead half
*Maximum mate/de-mate speed: 0.3m/sec (12″/sec)
MATERIALS
*Main seawater wetted parts: Titanium
*Wave spring, retaining ring: Hastelloy
*Front Elastomeric seals: Fluorosilicone compound
*O-Rings: Fluorosilicone or Nitrile
*Scraper ring: Rulon
*Compensation fluid: Synthetic mineral oil
*Internal components: All seawater compatible
SEA CON® Group have become manufacturers of probably the largest range of underwater electrical and fiber optic connectors in the world. Founded in 1964 by Willard Brantner, the company started manufacturing underwater electrical connectors in San Diego in 1968.
Today the company now has manufacturing facilities in California, Texas and Rhode Island, USA, Mexico, Norway and the United Kingdom and exports it’s range of products through a worldwide network of agencies and representatives.
With a standard range consisting of over 2,500 products, supported by a design and engineering capability that is second to none, the SEA CON® Group lead the way in marine electrical connectors technology.
[mappress] Subsea World News Staff , December 14, 2011; Image: SEA CON