New independent testing of the recently launched BIOGEN WIRESHIELD® wire rope and ROV umbilicals lubricant demonstrates consistently high-lubrication performance within an industry-leading temperature range of -50ºC to 180ºC.
It means that offshore operators can depend on a single wire rope and ROV umbilical lubricant in all operating conditions. There is no risk of BIOGEN WIRESHIELD going brittle at very low temperatures, and at the highest operating temperatures, such as those endured by the wire ropes in active heave compensation (AHC) systems, the lubricant performs to the same high standard, eliminating the safety risks associated with inferior products melting and dripping onto decks.
This latest performance characteristic builds on the performance and safety credentials of BIOGEN WIRESHIELD, which has already been certified under EU Ecolabel as an environmentally acceptable lubricant (EAL) to comply with the requirements of the latest US Vessel General Permit (VGP). It enables the marine and offshore industries to meet stricter environmental safety requirements whilst benefiting from enhanced day-to-day operational performance.
Manufactured in the UK by ROCOL®, BIOGEN WIRESHIELD has already demonstrated superior corrosion-resistance, with zero galvanic reaction after 1,000h in salt spray testing. The product offers shear stability too in the presence of saltwater, with little degradation in testing.
It also provides maximum penetration to the cable’s core. The lubricant’s pseudoplastic rheology means that shear or agitation causes a reduction in dynamic viscosity, which allows maximum penetration into ROV umbilicals and wire ropes, as well as increasing pumpability during application to minimise blockages.
ROCOL business development manager for marine and offshore industry Gareth Procter says: "A ‘no compromise’ approach was taken to the development of BIOGEN WIRESHIELD and the key to its success is its formulation, which includes unique proprietary ingredients. Independent environmental testing was performed on ROCOL’s high-performance additive packs, allowing them to be used in BIOGEN WIRESHIELD without compromising VGP compliance.
"The most remarkable result is the extent to which the formulation has exceeded performance expectations, such as the operating temperature range and corrosion protection. It is quickly proving itself to be the total wire rope and umbilical solution."
For more information, please contact ROCOL.