Bend Stiffeners

Dynamic Bend Stiffeners (“DBS”) are used at termination points of flexible pipes, power cables, umbilicals (“lines”). They are designed to add stiffness to the line, thus limiting bending stresses and curvature to acceptable levels.

One of the most critical aspects in the design of dynamic lines is fatigue. Thus it is very important that the DBS is correctly designed to withstand the in-service fatigue loads and stresses. Finally although the design is often seen as the most important aspect, the manufacturing process is equally important. A DBS with internal and external flaws/defects, often unseen in most commercial bend stiffeners sold in the market today can lead to a stiffener to failure many years later.

EXSTO has been manufacturing DBS for over 25 years. This has led to the development of a best in class manufacturing process and controls. In addition EXSTO uses a translucent material ELADEEP® E950, which allows us to precisely identify the presence of any impurities inside the DBS. This ensures performance in complete transparency! EXSTO uses one-part moulds, which eliminate the presence of external marks on the body of the stiffener, which then need to be removed thus adding extra time and risk in the manufacturing process.

EXSTO has 2 manufacturing plants servicing the Subsea industry. In Romans sur Isere, France and Sao Paulo Brazil. Both plants use exactly the same principles and procedures in the design and manufacturing of dynamic bend stiffeners. Finally the projects are led by a team of highly skilled engineers and project managers whose experience and performance at successfully delivering projects is widely recognised by the customers.