HKS Actuators Guarantee Water Management on a Drilling Rig in the Gulf of Mexico

HKS’s latest project is the successful implementation of the entire water management system on a DP3 Well Intervention Semisubmersible Unit for operation in the Gulf of Mexico.

For this project HKS designed and manufactured 372 customer-specific actuators of the SA-H and AFR types following the high standards required for off-shore applications. Within the two series, different sizes ranging from the SA-H 30 to SA-H 125 double acting, and, AFR 20 to AFR 520 spring return, were supplied for operation in the ballast system, seawater and fresh water cooling systems, fire extinguishing systems, drilling water systems, leakage water system, tank cleaning system, ‘black water’ system, fuel and oil transfer system, fresh water generating system and ventilation system.

The HKS design and manufacture followed intensive collaboration and wide-ranging modification of the customer specification. The individual customer requirements and added value, such as customized design, ABS-certification and IP 68-requirement were at the heart of the process. All actuators were equipped with a hydraulic control unit and associated electronics board, which allowed position control, speed control, load holding function as well as emergency operation. In addition, the AFR series were supplemented with a safety function so that in the event of loss of pressure, the actuator will automaticallydrive to a predefined position. This allows, in an emergency situation, the valves to fail open or closed, as necessary.

In general, HKS actuators are available in a wide design range such as ISO 5211 or customized flanges; double-acting or failsafe designs; with inductive, magnetic or mechanical feedback sensors. HKS actuators are also available in different materials and coatings to meet the requirements of the offshore or subsea environment. HKS actuators can be incorporated into the existing hydraulic system, or can also be used as local standalone single actuation systems.

HKS produces hydraulic and pneumatic compact rotary actuators and systems for rotating, tilting, accelerating, decelerating and holding of different types of load. The broad performance spectrum of the family-run company is supplemented by high-quality rotary lift combinations and cylinders. HKS German Advanced Technology Products work safe worldwide in uncountable various applications. Currently HKS employ about 180 people at two manufacturing facilities in Germany.

Hydrastore are exclusive UK partners for HKS. Covering sales across the UK and Ireland, they provide access to the full range of product, adding value with a wide range of hydraulic equipment, delivered loose or, as part of control panels or systems to all current standards. Designed and manufactured in-house at their purpose built factory in South Yorkshire.

Hydrastore
Tel: 01427 874 445
www.hydrastore.co.uk

Published: 7th March 2014