• Mobilise within 72 hours for offshore wind cable installation and repair campaigns
  • Modular, containerised cable lay spread compatible with multiple vessel types
  • Reduces downtime by removing reliance on dedicated cable lay vessels
  • Configurable for different deck layouts, vessel sizes, and project requirements

Why choose a modular cable lay spread?

Royal IHC’s modular cable lay spread offers a flexible alternative to traditional fixed systems, enabling offshore wind operators to achieve faster deployment across both cable installation and repair operations

Designed for easy transportation and rapid mobilisation on a wide range of vessel types and sizes, the system removes reliance on dedicated cable lay vessels.  This adaptability allows operators to act quickly and avoid the delays typically caused by vessel availability constraints.

Aerial photo of the cable lay spread - chutes and roller tables are red, and the quadrant at the back is yellow. Laid out in a large, clean factory bay.
Modular cable lay spread for installation and repair
Aerial photo of a yellow quadrant and red, palletised roller tables. Laid out on a clean factory floor.
Palletised modules enable rapid mobilisation

Solving vessel availability challenges

Vessel availability and long mobilisation periods can delay cable installation and repair campaigns across the offshore wind sector. This modular cable lay spread is purpose-built to help operators to respond faster to cable lay and repair operations, especially under emergency conditions. 

Instead of waiting for a specific vessel to become available, the system can be installed on a wide range of vessel types, including smaller vessels, to improve response times and reduce downtime.

Key features:

  • 72-hour mobilisation and commissioning
  • Fully scalable and configurable for different vessel types
  • Containerised components for rapid transport
  • Quayside assembly to limit vessel idle days
  • Adaptable for both cable repair and installation campaigns

Rapid 72-hour mobilisation

All system components are palletised for rapid transport in standard ISO containers or flat racks and can be largely pre-assembled on the quayside to reduce vessel idle days. 

Once installed, plug-and-play operation reduces commissioning time and simplifies integration with existing deck layouts. The modular cable repair spread is self-sufficient for pull testing of the winches and the breakback tensioner, removing the need for additional test equipment. 

Flexible module positioning and multiple fastening locations also allow the cable spread to be configured around the available deck area, enabling deployment across a wider range of vessel types and sizes without redesign or permanent modification.
 

Set in a large factory bay, a red cable tensioner is in breakback position.
Palletised breakback tensioner
Set in a large factory bay, a set of red framed roller tables on a grey built-in pallet.
Palletised roller tables

Versatility for power cable operations

The modular system can be configured around specific project requirements, vessel availability, and deck constraints. This flexibility makes it suitable for both cable installation and repair across offshore wind projects.

Operational advantages:

  • Configurable for cable lay and repair
  • Flexible deck layout for efficient use of available space
  • Easily scalable with extended roller highways
  • Seamless integration with Royal IHC rental winches and tensioners
Aerial view of the cable lay system, including red chutes and parallel roller highways, and a yellow quadrant
Layout of the modular cable lay spread
View behind of a large yellow quadrant being lifting by a red and white quadrant handling system
Quadrant handling system in operation

Standard system components

The palletised roller tables maintain cable alignment and integrity, while height adjustment enables operators to tailor the system directly to their requirements.

The quadrant breaks down into three transportable sections and can be handled using standard forklifts, eliminating the need for specialist cranes. 

The quadrant handling system can be transported as a single unit with no disassembly required. It mechanically interlocks during overboarding to provide secure and reliable load transfer.

The chutes are supplied in modular sections to pack into standard 40 ft containers for simplified transport. They can be articulated and secured on deck, clear of the waterline during vessel transit.

The recently upgraded 15-tonne breakback tensioner supports bi-directional cable passing and use biodegradable oil. Pull testing can be carried out against the chute grillage, further reducing commissioning time.

Typical specifications:

General
Minimum bend radius4 m
Product diameter20 - 300 mm
Indicative dimensions
Length x width x height30 m x 15 m x adjustable
Roller highway22 m

Note: All dimensions can be tailored to requirements

FAQs

Is the system compatible with smaller vessels?

Yes. Operators can select the number of modules based on the available deck space. The palletised components and self-sufficient testing also make the system suitable for a wide range of vessel types.

Can operators use the system for both cable lay and repair?

Yes. The spread is configurable for cable lay and repair operations. It can be easily configured to work around operators own jointing equipment. 

How long does mobilisation take?

Typical mobilisation and commissioning can be achieved within 72 hours.

Can the system scale for larger campaigns?

Yes. Additional roller tables and equipment can be added as required.

Do operators need to purchase all system equipment outright?

No. Breakback tensioners and winches can be supplied and easily integrated from Royal IHC’s rental portfolio.

More information?

  • Tom Blanchford

    Tom
    Blanchford

    Sales manager cablelay and pipelay

In a large factory bay, the yellow quadrant is tipping forward. Two workers dressed in orange hi-vis jackets and white hard hats stand either side

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