BSL® (Bend Stiffener Latcher)


The BSL® (bend stiffener latcher), a proprietary Deep Down Inc. design, offers its clients significant cost savings, which arise principally out of the unique quick-release and locking mechanism. A single ROV can engage the BSL® without any need for divers during any phase of its deployment. As bend stiffeners may be larger and heavier, it is also important to note that the bend stiffener can be carried behind the bullnose of the Deep Down BSL® and engaged into the mating bell mouth. Then, releasing the bend stiffener will allow the bullnose and umbilical to be pulled up through the remaining length of the I-tube to hang off at the topside hang-off flange.

The Deep Down design has handled high load transfers for very high bending moments of up to 350,000 ft lbs. As umbilicals and attached bend stiffeners are subjected to higher cyclic loading in ultra deepwater developments, these bending moments will increase the need for BSL®.