At Walker Rubber, we don't just make parts, we solve problems. As a trusted UK rubber manufacturer, every project starts with a client needing us to help with a challenge - whether it's keeping water out, reducing vibration, or, in this case, limiting marine build-up.
We’re not just here to tick a box; we deliver solutions that work in the real world and for years to come. So, when a subsea engineering firm got in touch about an issue they were having with marine growth on their offshore riser system, we were more than ready to help.
Who is the customer and what did they require?
With the North Sea on our doorstep, we work with several companies in oil & gas and renewable energy. This particular client, a leader in the sector, came to us in need of a protective rubber sleeve for a subsea connector. The rubber sleeve needed to be tough enough for the job, but flexible enough to fit tightly to withstand movement and currents without clips or extra fixings.
Specifications we had to consider include:
- Exposure to seawater and high subsea pressure
- Staying in place despite underwater currents and movement
- Stretching over the riser without fixings
- Avoiding swelling or bulging over time
They had an idea of what they needed, but no the exact material or spec, which is where we came in.
What solution did Walker Rubber provide?
First things first, we made sure we fully understood the use case and problem our client needed to solve. This involved calls, emails and back and forth, making sure we asked the right questions and gave honest answers.
From there, we looked at material selection, dimensions, and specific conditions the sleeve would face. We even invited the client’s engineer to brave the snow come and view our material range in person – commitment on both sides!
- Material Selection: We talked through durability, abrasion resistance, and stretchability, and helped them strike the right balance between flexibility and performance. After weighing up the pros and cons of various neoprene rubber grades, we suggested BS2752 neoprene rubber sheet, offered in both 40 Shore (softer) and 60 Shore (firmer) variants. We also presented the option of having nylon reinforcement.
- Prototype & Revision: After deciding on the materials and exact spec, we produced the custom prototype for our customer to test. The initial prototype was slightly too large, so we trimmed, rebonded and sent it back out to ensure we achieved the exact fit the customer required.
For the final product, we used:
- BS2752 neoprene rubber sheet
- CAD modelling and CNC cutting
- Butt-joint bonding reinforcement strip
- Two-part high-strength adhesive (Bostik 2402)
What was the result?
After refining the prototype to meet the use case, the customer placed an order for 25 units. We’ll take that as a strong endorsement of the solution and service Walker Rubber delivered!
Struggling to source the right rubber part? Get in touch!
As a trusted rubber company delivering bespoke components with industry-leading lead times for 80 years, whether you're maintaining offshore equipment, experiencing a problem or doing an entire refit, we can help.
Call us on 01603 904371 or use our contact form to tell us more.