Since 1967, FMC has specialized in the development of swivel joints for Single Point Mooring systems. Among the range of proven Chiksan® swivel joints designed and manufactured by FMC features the Cardanic Swivel Joint. This swivel joint is the proven and reliable solution for offshore loading and unloading installations that use floating hoses between a buoy or a fixed tower or other applications that require two degrees of freedom.
Ever increasing development of offshore operations has led to the use of Chiksan® swivel joints on loading buoys, either in submerged service for wellhead connections on the sea floor or in semi-submerged service for connections between buoys and loading hoses. The basic concept of a Cardanic swivel joint is the same as that used for joints in loading arms but in addition, it features a specially designed waterseal assembly completely preventing the entry of salt water in the ball race area.
The Cardanic swivel joint is used to connect two flexible hoses to a fixed or oscillating loading tower. This swivel joint is designed to absorb vertical and horizontal movements of the hoses produced by waves and current.
Features
- Sizes range from 4" to 72" diameter
- Design pressures as high as 1000 psi
- Special designs available for pressures up to 5000 psi
- Swivel joints, or assemblies, available for constant motion applications
Benefits
- Extends life of floating hose
- Optimal sealability
- Greatly enhanced reliability and safety
- Environmental protection
- Reliable, trouble free service life
- Low cost maintenance