Page 62: of Offshore Engineer Magazine (Jan/Feb 2026)

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The igus e-loop replaced traditional

SEADRILL ADOPTS IGUS’ MODULAR ENERGY CHAINS service loops being installed on

Seadrill’s West Polaris drillship © igus service life. The rope is also made of a synthetic plastic f- ready-to-install solution, reducing installation time. Con- ber, creating a shatter-proof, weather-resistant, fexible and sisting of igus chainfex fexible cables, the system com- corrosion-free solution. bined multiple power, signal and hydraulic loops into a

The e-loop also incorporates chain links made from single loop design that not only reduced the overall foot- high-performance plastic and are designed to be replace- print, but also extended the system’s durability.

able, even during operation. Compared to standard industrial cables used in tra-

The feature ensures the system can be easily maintained ditional service loops, chainfex cables are designed for and adapted to changing requirements without the need continuous fexing and harsh environments, offering re- for a complete overhaul, according to the company. sistance to abrasion, oil, chemicals and temperature ex-

In addition, durable polyurethane (PU) foam bumpers tremes. With less cable failures and maintenance, Seadrill on the outside of the e-loop system absorb impacts and fur- has seen substantial cost savings, igus claims.

ther protects the system from damage caused by swinging “igus e-loop technology has played a critical role in en- or bumping into equipment on site. Like the other compo- hancing the operational reliability and effciency of Seadrill’s nents in the system, these bumpers are replaceable, ensuring offshore operations. The system’s modular design, ease of any damage can be rectifed without signifcant downtime. maintenance and proven performance have addressed the challenges posed by traditional service loops, resulting in signifcant cost savings and reduced downtime,” igus said.

Implementation on Seadrill’s West Polaris Drillship

From system design to onsite installation, igus provided Following the installation of the system on the West Po-

Seadrill with support throughout the implementation pro- laris drillship, Seadrill opted to implement the same solu- cess on its West Polaris ship and delivered the e-loop as a tion on its second drillship, West Capella.

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