High-capacity synthetic mooring lines demand precise, proven tension monitoring, especially in offshore environments.
In a Gulf of Mexico mooring project led by Delmar Systems, Rugged Controls successfully implemented a Running Line Tensiometer (RLT) with 2” Samson AmSteel-Blue HMPE ropes. This marked Rugged Controls’ first field deployment of mooring line monitoring technology on a 2”+ synthetic mooring line, which is an increasingly common configuration for modern offshore operations.
Synthetic Rope for Deepwater Mooring
Delmar Systems was tasked with mooring an offshore supply vessel (OSV) to a major platform during dive operations. The OSV used a three-point mooring system: two stern hawser lines to the platform and a bow line to a preset suction pile at 2,900 feet of depth. To meet both strength and handling requirements, Delmar selected the 2” Samson rope for the bow mooring line. Its lightweight yet high-strength design maintained deck maneuverability while delivering the necessary maximum breaking load.
Deploying the RL-20175K Tensiometer
Rugged Controls’ customized RL-20175K running line tensiometer (RLT) was integrated into the OSV’s mooring system to monitor bow line tension in real time. Prior to deployment, Rugged Controls conducted full calibration of the RLT to ensure accurate performance under load. While Rugged Controls’ RLTs are typically used with wire rope, this project highlighted their adaptability to synthetic lines, which exhibit different load-bearing characteristics. Collaboration with Samson’s R&D engineers ensured confidence in the field-ready configuration.
A Proven Solution for Modern Mooring Challenges
“This is MTNW’s first use of an RLT to measure tension in a major synthetic mooring line of this large diameter,” noted Tom Rezanka, President at Rugged Controls. “The trend in mooring is toward lighter and stronger systems. Synthetic lines require new monitoring solutions, and our sensors have proven accuracy regardless of rope material.”
Testing on an ABS-certified bed confirmed the system’s precision matched that of wire rope applications.
Fast Installation, Lasting Safety
According to Delmar Systems engineer Dillon Shuler, “Both the AmSteel-Blue winch line and Rugged Controls’ RLT have worked flawlessly together and played a vital role in the project’s success.
Rezanka added, “Our modern RLT design allows for rapid deployment. Installation time is measured in hours, not weeks, making it ideal for retrofitting existing winches in offshore environments.”
“We’ve seen increased demand from risk managers and rigging engineers for real-time tension data. If it can be measured, it should be logged, alerted on, and analyzed. Our systems meet the growing safety and operational accountability standards of the offshore industry, giving project managers peace of mind.”
Conclusion
As offshore operations move toward synthetic mooring solutions, reliable tension monitoring is essential. Rugged Controls’ RLT systems continue to lead the way with accurate, deployable, and trusted technology.
