WO2025219355A1 - Subsea high voltage connector device - Google Patents

Subsea high voltage connector device

Info

Publication number
WO2025219355A1
WO2025219355A1 PCT/EP2025/060302 EP2025060302W WO2025219355A1 WO 2025219355 A1 WO2025219355 A1 WO 2025219355A1 EP 2025060302 W EP2025060302 W EP 2025060302W WO 2025219355 A1 WO2025219355 A1 WO 2025219355A1
Authority
WO
WIPO (PCT)
Prior art keywords
coupling
plate
coupling assembly
power cables
submarine power
Prior art date
Legal status (The legal status is an assumption and is not a legal conclusion. Google has not performed a legal analysis and makes no representation as to the accuracy of the status listed.)
Pending
Application number
PCT/EP2025/060302
Other languages
French (fr)
Inventor
Mathias BERTRAND
Liva Christian Randrianarivony
Gregory LEVEQUE
Jean-Pierre Benoit
Current Assignee (The listed assignees may be inaccurate. Google has not performed a legal analysis and makes no representation or warranty as to the accuracy of the list.)
Single Buoy Moorings Inc
Original Assignee
Single Buoy Moorings Inc
Priority date (The priority date is an assumption and is not a legal conclusion. Google has not performed a legal analysis and makes no representation as to the accuracy of the date listed.)
Filing date
Publication date
Application filed by Single Buoy Moorings Inc filed Critical Single Buoy Moorings Inc
Publication of WO2025219355A1 publication Critical patent/WO2025219355A1/en
Pending legal-status Critical Current
Anticipated expiration legal-status Critical

Links

Classifications

    • H—ELECTRICITY
    • H01—ELECTRIC ELEMENTS
    • H01R—ELECTRICALLY-CONDUCTIVE CONNECTIONS; STRUCTURAL ASSOCIATIONS OF A PLURALITY OF MUTUALLY-INSULATED ELECTRICAL CONNECTING ELEMENTS; COUPLING DEVICES; CURRENT COLLECTORS
    • H01R13/00—Details of coupling devices of the kinds covered by groups H01R12/70 or H01R24/00 - H01R33/00
    • H01R13/46—Bases; Cases
    • H01R13/52—Dustproof, splashproof, drip-proof, waterproof, or flameproof cases
    • H01R13/523—Dustproof, splashproof, drip-proof, waterproof, or flameproof cases for use under water
    • E—FIXED CONSTRUCTIONS
    • E21—EARTH OR ROCK DRILLING; MINING
    • E21B—EARTH OR ROCK DRILLING; OBTAINING OIL, GAS, WATER, SOLUBLE OR MELTABLE MATERIALS OR A SLURRY OF MINERALS FROM WELLS
    • E21B33/00—Sealing or packing boreholes or wells
    • E21B33/02—Surface sealing or packing
    • E21B33/03—Well heads; Setting-up thereof
    • E21B33/035—Well heads; Setting-up thereof specially adapted for underwater installations
    • E21B33/038—Connectors used on well heads, e.g. for connecting blow-out preventer and riser
    • E21B33/0385—Connectors used on well heads, e.g. for connecting blow-out preventer and riser electrical connectors
    • H—ELECTRICITY
    • H01—ELECTRIC ELEMENTS
    • H01R—ELECTRICALLY-CONDUCTIVE CONNECTIONS; STRUCTURAL ASSOCIATIONS OF A PLURALITY OF MUTUALLY-INSULATED ELECTRICAL CONNECTING ELEMENTS; COUPLING DEVICES; CURRENT COLLECTORS
    • H01R43/00—Apparatus or processes specially adapted for manufacturing, assembling, maintaining, or repairing of line connectors or current collectors or for joining electric conductors
    • H01R43/26—Apparatus or processes specially adapted for manufacturing, assembling, maintaining, or repairing of line connectors or current collectors or for joining electric conductors for engaging or disengaging the two parts of a coupling device
    • H—ELECTRICITY
    • H02—GENERATION; CONVERSION OR DISTRIBUTION OF ELECTRIC POWER
    • H02G—INSTALLATION OF ELECTRIC CABLES OR LINES, OR OF COMBINED OPTICAL AND ELECTRIC CABLES OR LINES
    • H02G1/00—Methods or apparatus specially adapted for installing, maintaining, repairing or dismantling electric cables or lines
    • H02G1/14—Methods or apparatus specially adapted for installing, maintaining, repairing or dismantling electric cables or lines for joining or terminating cables
    • H—ELECTRICITY
    • H02—GENERATION; CONVERSION OR DISTRIBUTION OF ELECTRIC POWER
    • H02G—INSTALLATION OF ELECTRIC CABLES OR LINES, OR OF COMBINED OPTICAL AND ELECTRIC CABLES OR LINES
    • H02G15/00—Cable fittings
    • H02G15/08—Cable junctions
    • H02G15/10—Cable junctions protected by boxes, e.g. by distribution, connection or junction boxes
    • H02G15/12—Cable junctions protected by boxes, e.g. by distribution, connection or junction boxes for incorporating transformers, loading coils or amplifiers
    • H02G15/14—Cable junctions protected by boxes, e.g. by distribution, connection or junction boxes for incorporating transformers, loading coils or amplifiers specially adapted for submarine cables
    • H—ELECTRICITY
    • H02—GENERATION; CONVERSION OR DISTRIBUTION OF ELECTRIC POWER
    • H02G—INSTALLATION OF ELECTRIC CABLES OR LINES, OR OF COMBINED OPTICAL AND ELECTRIC CABLES OR LINES
    • H02G15/00—Cable fittings
    • H02G15/08—Cable junctions
    • H02G15/10—Cable junctions protected by boxes, e.g. by distribution, connection or junction boxes
    • H02G15/16—Cable junctions protected by boxes, e.g. by distribution, connection or junction boxes structurally associated with support for line-connecting terminals within the box

Definitions

  • the present invention relates to a coupling assembly for electrically coupling a first plurality of submarine power cables to a second plurality of submarine power cables. Also, the invention relates to a method of electrically coupling submarine power cables to each other in a body of water while below the water level.
  • Subsea high voltage connectors are known in the offshore industry for connecting one or more electric devices to an electrical power source for operation below the sea surface. Such electric devices are for example used in the production of hydrocarbons from subsea wells, and require to be powered by high voltage energy sources.
  • wet mate connectors with either dry mate or wet mate configurations are known.
  • Wet mate configurations allow to connect a power cable of the electric device to a power cable of the power source under wet conditions (i.e., below water level).
  • Wet mate connectors have a combined mechanical and electrical connectors that are based on spring mechanisms and operate substantially simultaneously, with potentially large interference between the mechanical and electrical parts of the connector.
  • Such a wet mate high voltage connector is for example known from US 4,142,770.
  • a high voltage connector comprising a coupling assembly for electrically coupling a first plurality of submarine power cables to a second plurality of submarine power cables, the first and second plurality of submarine power cables arranged in one or more cable groups
  • the coupling assembly comprising: a first coupling member comprising a first housing for electrically coupling to the first plurality of submarine power cables; a second coupling member comprising a second housing for electrically coupling to the second plurality of submarine power cables;
  • the first housing of the first coupling member comprising: one or more first inlet portions for electrical coupling to the first plurality of submarine power cables, a first main portion adjacent to each of the one or more inlet portions and enclosing per cable group a first conducting member for electrically coupling to each of the first plurality submarine power cables of the respective cable group via the one or more of the first inlet portions, a receiving portion adjacent to the first main portion, a first gate positioned at an interface between the first main portion and the receiving portion for closing off the first main portion, and
  • the coupling assembly according to the invention provides a wet mate configuration which allows to connect an electrical device with a power source under wet conditions, i.e., below the water level.
  • the coupling assembly can be positioned at its final location on the sea bed before the connection between the electrical device and the power source is to be made.
  • the coupling assembly is relatively compact which advantageously provides a (physical) coupling of submarine power cables with reduced interference in the electrical connection system.
  • the compact arrangement provides an improved control of connection by reduction of the contact area between the first and second housings.
  • the invention provides the coupling as described above, wherein the first gate comprises a first plate and a second plate stacked on the first plate, the first plate and the second plate each comprising a first through-opening for each cable group and at least one of the first plate and the second plate configured to rotate about the normal axis X so that in a disconnected state of the coupling assembly the first through- openings are misaligned, and the first gate is in a closed state, and the second gate comprising a third plate and a fourth plate on the first plate, the third plate and the fourth plate each comprising a second through-opening for each cable group and at least one of the third plate and fourth plate being rotatable about the normal axis so that in a disconnected state of the coupling assembly the second through-openings are misaligned and the second gate is in a closed state, wherein when reaching the connected state of the assembly, at least one of the first and second plate in the first gate and at least one of the third and fourth plate in the second gate are configured to
  • the invention provides the coupling as described above, wherein a part of the first conducting member is integrated as a conducting target plate in the first volume adjacent the through-opening of the first plate of the first gate.
  • the invention provides the coupling as described above, wherein the first housing comprises two first inlet portions for electrically coupling a subset of two submarine power cables, each of the two first inlet portions arranged on a face of the first housing, the two faces being opposite faces of the first housing so as to form a T- shaped construction with the receiving portion.
  • the invention provides the coupling assembly as described above, wherein an external surface of the engaging portion and the receiving portion is made of carbon steel and a sacrificial element is provided on either the engaging portion or the receiving portion for cathodic protection, the sacrificial element comprising a material selected from magnesium, zinc and aluminium and/or alloys based on magnesium, zinc and/or aluminium.
  • the invention provides the coupling assembly as described above, wherein at least one of the one or more first inlets, of the one or more second inlets, of the first main portion or second main portion encloses a liquid insulating material consisting of a dielectric oil.
  • the invention provides the coupling assembly as described above, wherein the first and second housings further comprise a pressure compensator for controlling and altering the pressure of the dielectric oil to adjust to local external water pressure.
  • the invention provides the coupling assembly as described above, wherein the dielectric oil is a non-mineral oil, preferably an oil based on synthetic ester.
  • the invention provides the coupling assembly as described above, wherein at least one of a group comprising the one or more first inlets, the one or more second inlets, the first main portion and second main portion further encloses a solid insulating material at restricted locations around the first and/or second conducting elements.
  • the invention provides the coupling assembly as described above, wherein the number of cable groups is either one or three.
  • the invention provides a method of electrically coupling submarine power cables to each other in a body of water, while below the water level, the method comprising:
  • the invention provides the method as described above, wherein sliding the second conducting member comprises that the second conducting member is translated to and through the aligned first and second through openings by action of a hydraulic jack supporting the second conducting member.
  • the invention provides the method as described above, where coupling is carried out at a depth up to about 3000 metres below sea level.
  • Figure 1 shows schematically a perspective view of a coupling assembly according to an embodiment of the invention
  • Figure 2 shows a perspective view of the coupling assembly during connection phase
  • Figure 3 shows a cross-sectional view of the coupling assembly during the connection phase
  • Figure 4 shows a cross-sectional view of the coupling assembly in the connected state
  • Figure 5 shows a cross-sectional view of the coupling assembly in a next stage
  • Figure 6 shows a cross-sectional view of the coupling assembly when electrically connected.
  • Figure 1 shows schematically a perspective view of a coupling assembly 1 according to an embodiment of the invention while not connected.
  • the coupling assembly comprises a first coupling member 2 and a second coupling member 8, which are shown in Figure 1 , in disconnected mode.
  • the first coupling member 2 is configured to be positioned on a seabed S and is arranged as a contact terminal for a first submarine power cable 20 that extends over the surface of the seabed (not shown in detail).
  • the first coupling member 2 comprises a first housing 3 holding first circuitry for electrically coupling to the first plurality of submarine power cables.
  • the first housing 3 comprises a receiving portion 7 for receiving an engaging portion 13 of the second coupling member 8.
  • the receiving portion 7 is facing up from the seabed.
  • one or more first inlet portions 5 are provided for electrical coupling the first plurality of submarine power cables 20 to the first circuitry.
  • the second coupling member 8 is arranged as a contact terminal for a second submarine power cable 22 to be connected to the first submarine power cable 20 via the first coupling member 2.
  • the second coupling member 8 comprises a second housing 9 holding second circuitry for electrically coupling to the second plurality of submarine power cables.
  • the coupling assembly 1 comprises a foundation structure 4 which is attached to the first coupling member 2 and provides a structural support on the seabed S.
  • the foundation structure further comprises guiding beams 60 attached to the structure.
  • the guiding beams are each configured to cooperate with a slider 61 (or similar element) that is attached to the second coupling member 8 and configured to translate along the respective guiding beam.
  • the second housing 9 comprises the engaging portion 13 for coupling to the receiving portion of the first coupling member 2.
  • one or more inlet portions 11 are provided for electrical coupling the second plurality of submarine power cables 22 to the second circuitry.
  • Figure 2 shows a perspective view of the coupling assembly during a connection phase.
  • the second coupling member 8 is located above the first coupling member 2 by an installation mechanism (not shown here) for example a crane or a remotely operated underwater vehicle.
  • an installation mechanism for example a crane or a remotely operated underwater vehicle.
  • the first housing 3 comprises a receiving portion 7 for receiving an engaging portion 13 of the second coupling member 8.
  • the receiving portion 7 is facing up from the seabed.
  • first inlet portions 5 are provided for electrical coupling the first plurality of submarine power cables 20 to the first circuitry.
  • the second housing 9 comprises an engaging portion 13 for coupling to the receiving portion of the first coupling member 2.
  • one or more inlet portions 11 are provided for electrical coupling the second plurality of submarine power cables 22 to the second circuitry.
  • the receiving portion 7 of the first coupling member 2 is facing substantially upward while the engaging portion 13 (not shown here) of the second coupling member 8 is facing substantially downward.
  • the engaging portion 13 of the second coupling member s is constructed to have a cover element 63 arranged downward above the first surface 7 of the first coupling member 2.
  • the cover element 63 By disposing the cover element 63 on the second coupling member 8, the interface between the first and second members 2, 8 during the connection phase is shielded from the environment.
  • the receiving portion 7 and the engaging portion 13 comprise a first and a second panel, respectively, each preferably having a circular shape.
  • three gates are arranged around a centre of rotation. Accordingly, the design may be based on one gate per phase of the current in a three phase power system.
  • the gates are configured as a barrel type door for opening/closing a corresponding through opening in the circular panel. This will be described in more detail with reference to Figures 3, 4 and 5.
  • Figure 3 shows a cross-sectional view of the coupling assembly during the connection phase.
  • first coupling member 2 is shown.
  • the second coupling member s is shown positioned above, with the engaging portion 13 vertically aligned with the receiving portion 7.
  • the first housing 3 of the first coupling member 2 comprises a first volume 6 which is defined by walls of the first housing 3 that are configured to enclose the first volume 6.
  • the top side of the first volume 6 comprises the first circular panel in which an opening is provided at the side of the receiving portion 7 which is sealable by a first gate 40.
  • the first gate 40 is positioned at an interface between the first volume 6 and the receiving portion 7.
  • the second housing 9 of the second coupling member 8 comprises a second volume 12 which is defined by walls of the second housing 9 that are configured to enclose the second volume.
  • the bottom side of the second volume 12 comprises the second circular panel in which an opening is provided at the side of the engaging portion 13 which is sealable by a second gate 45.
  • the second gate 45 is positioned at an interface between the second volume 12 and the engaging portion 13.
  • the first gate 40 is a rotating gate door consisting of a stack of a circular first plate 41 and a circular second plate 42.
  • the circular second plate 42 is arranged between the circular first plate 41 and the first volume 6.
  • Each plate 41 , 42 comprises a first through-opening 43, 44.
  • the first plate 41 is configured to rotate relative to the second plate 42 about the common normal axis X of the plates so that in a disconnected state of the coupling assembly 1 the first through-openings 43, 44 are misaligned, and the first gate 40 is in a closed state.
  • the second gate 45 is a rotating gate consisting of a stack of a circular third plate 46 and a circular fourth plate 47.
  • the circular fourth plate 47 is arranged between the circular third plate 46 and the second volume 12.
  • Each plate 46, 47 comprises a second through-opening 48, 49.
  • the third plate 46 is configured to rotate relative to the fourth plate 47 about the common normal axis X of the plates so that in a disconnected state of the coupling assembly 1 the second through-openings 48, 49 are misaligned, and the second gate 45 is in a closed state, closing off the second volume 12 from the external.
  • the circular first plate 41 is configured to releasably attach to the circular third plate 46 when the engaging portion 13 and the receiving portion 7 are in connected position.
  • either the first volume 6 or the second volume 12 comprises a rotating drive 50 for simultaneously rotating the circular first 41 and third 46 plates relative to the circular second 42 and fourth 47 plate around the common normal axis X.
  • the first volume comprises a first rotating drive 51 (not shown) for rotating the circular first plate 41 relative to the circular second plate 42 around the common normal axis X and the second volume comprises a second rotating drive 50 for rotating the circular third plate 46 relative to the circular fourth plate 47 around the common normal axis X.
  • the first volume 6 comprises and encloses an elongated first conducting element 30, such as a metallic rod, that at a first end connects to the first submarine power cable 20 at the inlet portion 5 and extends to a second end at which the first conducting element 30 has a conductive target plate 301 which is positioned adjacent to the second plate of the first gate.
  • the first through opening 44 of the second plate 42 coincides with the circumference of the conductive target plate 301.
  • the second volume 12 comprises and encloses an elongated second conducting element 31, such as a second metallic rod, that at a first end connects to the second submarine power cable 22 at the inlet portion 11 of the second volume.
  • an elongated second conducting element 31 such as a second metallic rod
  • both the first and second conducting elements 30, 31 are covered at least partially with a solid insulating material (not shown) around the first and/or second conducting elements 30, 31.
  • Figure 4 shows a cross-sectional view of the coupling assembly when connected.
  • the engaging portion 13 of the second coupling member 8 is arranged on the receiving portion 7 of the first coupling member 2.
  • the first plate 41 of the first gate 40 is thus adjacent to the third plate 46 of the second gate 45, while both the first and second gate are each in closed state, such that the first and second volume are each isolated from the environment, i.e. surrounding water, before and during connecting.
  • the second conducting element 31 is configured to extend and contact at a second end thereof the conductive target plate 301 of the first conducting element 30 through the first and second through openings 43, 44; 48, 49, when the first and second coupling parts are in a connected state.
  • the first through openings 43, 44 of the first and second plate 41 , 42 are aligned with the second through openings 48, 49 of the third and fourth plates 46,47.
  • Figure 5 shows a cross-sectional view of the coupling assembly in a next stage.
  • the first volume 6 and the second volume 12 are coupled to each other by aligning the first through openings with the second through openings.
  • the aligning step is carried out by rotating both the first plate 41 and the third plate 46 around the common normal axis X to an opened position where the first through openings 43, 44 of the first and second plates 41, 42 coincide and the second through openings 48, 49 of the third and fourth plates 46, 47 coincide.
  • the first and second volumes 6, 12 are communicatively coupled.
  • the conductive target plate 301 is thus exposed to the second volume 12, for contact by the second conducting element 31.
  • Figure 6 shows a cross-sectional view of the coupling assembly when electrically connected.
  • an electrical connection is created between the second end of the second conducting element 31 and the conductive target plate 301 of the first conducting element 30 through the first and second through openings 43, 44; 48, 49.
  • the second conducting element 31 is translated by a driving mechanism 64 towards the conductive target plate until the second conducting element contacts the target plate 301.
  • the second coupling member 8 is further equipped with an actuator electronically connected to a control unit 62 configured to actuate the operation of the gates 40, 45 by means of the rotating drive 50.
  • control unit 62 is configured to actuate the hydraulic jack 64.
  • the control unit 62 can be located at the exterior of the coupling assembly 1 for actuating by an ROV. Alternatively, the control unit may be located at a remote location, coupled by a wired connection to the hydraulic jack 64 (or the actuator driving the hydraulic jack) in the coupling assembly. The hydraulic jack 64 is thus operated by the control unit 62.
  • the hydraulic jack 64 is arranged within the second volume 12 and is capable of translating the second conducting element 30 towards or away from the target plate 301.
  • the second conducting element 30 is carried by a moveable frame that translates the second conducting element relative to the target plate 301.
  • the first and second subsea power cables 20, 22 are connected and ready for transfer of electric power.
  • the structure of the coupling assembly is designed for HV applications of about 11 kV and higher.
  • the coupling assembly 1 is configured for transfer of high voltage electrical power below sea level.
  • the target plate 301 and the second conducting element 31 , as well as the first and second housings or enclosures 3, 9 of the first and second volumes 6, 12 are each manufactured from carbon steel.
  • cathodic protection elements comprising magnesium, aluminium and/or zinc are provided on the exterior of the first and second housings.
  • Both the first and second volumes contain an oil that has the function of a dielectric for insulating the electric components in the first and second volumes.
  • the dielectric oil is a synthetic ester based on non-mineral oil, which improves the resistance to water ingress in the first and second volumes. Also the synthetic ester improves the insulating resistance of the volumes reducing the electrical breakdown probability, and allows to operate at relatively high voltages. In some embodiments the operating voltage is between about 70 and 150 kV (AC).
  • the coupling assembly 1 is provided with a pressure compensation system (schematically indicated by arrow P in Figure 1) to adjust the internal pressure within the first and second volumes relative to the surrounding water pressure.
  • the pressure compensation system is configured to negate effects of pressure differential at depth.
  • the pressure compensation system changes the internal pressure in the first and second volumes to counteract the risk of collapse/implosion at large sea depths, for example up to operational depths of about 3000 m.
  • the coupling assembly 1 is configured for connecting a single phase electric current over one or more first 20 and one or more second power cables 22, all configured for carrying current with same phase.
  • the coupling assembly 1 is configured for connecting a multi-phase (e.g. tri-phase) electric current over the first plurality of power cables 20 and the second plurality of power cables 22, where the potential phase may differ between different pairs of connected first and second power cables.
  • a preferable electrical coupling can be provided between submarine cables for transfer of power between a fixed installation located either onshore, offshore or subsea and a floating offshore installation.
  • Non-limiting examples of such electrical couplings are between a FPSO and an onshore power station, between a FPSO and a (floating) wind turbine or windfarm and between an offshore wind turbine/windfarm and an onshore power grid.
  • the structure of the coupling assembly 1 is designed for relatively large depths of operation with the capability to connect power cables at such depth.
  • the coupling assembly may be deployed at a depth of about 3000 m below water surface.
  • the design of the high voltage subsea connector can also used in anti-explosive environment top-side applications such as hydrocarbon processing.

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  • Life Sciences & Earth Sciences (AREA)
  • Engineering & Computer Science (AREA)
  • Geology (AREA)
  • Mining & Mineral Resources (AREA)
  • Physics & Mathematics (AREA)
  • Environmental & Geological Engineering (AREA)
  • Fluid Mechanics (AREA)
  • General Life Sciences & Earth Sciences (AREA)
  • Geochemistry & Mineralogy (AREA)
  • Cable Accessories (AREA)

Abstract

A coupling assembly (1) for electrically coupling a first plurality of submarine power cables (20) to a second plurality of submarine power cables (22), the first and second plurality of cables arranged in one or more cable groups, the coupling assembly (1) comprising: a first coupling member (2) comprising a first housing (3) for electrically coupling to the first plurality of cables (20), and a second coupling member (8) comprising a second housing (9) for electrically coupling to the second plurality of cables (22); the first housing (3) including a first gate (40) positioned at an interface thereof, and the second housing (9) including a second gate (45) positioned at an interface thereof; the first and second gates (40, 45) configured to rotate about their respective normal axis (X) for reaching a connected state for each cable group and forming an opening.

Description

Subsea High Voltage Connector device
Field of the invention
The present invention relates to a coupling assembly for electrically coupling a first plurality of submarine power cables to a second plurality of submarine power cables. Also, the invention relates to a method of electrically coupling submarine power cables to each other in a body of water while below the water level.
Background
Subsea high voltage connectors are known in the offshore industry for connecting one or more electric devices to an electrical power source for operation below the sea surface. Such electric devices are for example used in the production of hydrocarbons from subsea wells, and require to be powered by high voltage energy sources.
In the prior art high voltage connectors with either dry mate or wet mate configurations are known. Wet mate configurations allow to connect a power cable of the electric device to a power cable of the power source under wet conditions (i.e., below water level). Wet mate connectors have a combined mechanical and electrical connectors that are based on spring mechanisms and operate substantially simultaneously, with potentially large interference between the mechanical and electrical parts of the connector. Such a wet mate high voltage connector is for example known from US 4,142,770.
It is an object of the present invention to overcome or mitigate one or more of the disadvantages from the prior art.
Summary of the invention
The object is achieved by a high voltage connector comprising a coupling assembly for electrically coupling a first plurality of submarine power cables to a second plurality of submarine power cables, the first and second plurality of submarine power cables arranged in one or more cable groups, the coupling assembly comprising: a first coupling member comprising a first housing for electrically coupling to the first plurality of submarine power cables; a second coupling member comprising a second housing for electrically coupling to the second plurality of submarine power cables; the first housing of the first coupling member comprising: one or more first inlet portions for electrical coupling to the first plurality of submarine power cables, a first main portion adjacent to each of the one or more inlet portions and enclosing per cable group a first conducting member for electrically coupling to each of the first plurality submarine power cables of the respective cable group via the one or more of the first inlet portions, a receiving portion adjacent to the first main portion, a first gate positioned at an interface between the first main portion and the receiving portion for closing off the first main portion, and the second housing of the second coupling member comprising: one or more second inlet portions for electrical coupling to the second plurality of submarine power cables, a second main portion adjacent to the one or more second inlet portions, an engaging portion adjacent to the second main portion, per cable group a second conducting element positioned in the engaging portion and configured for the electrically coupling to the second plurality of submarine power cables of the respective cable group via the one or more second inlet portions, a second gate positioned in the engaging portion for closing off the engaging portion, wherein per cable group at least one of the first and second conducting elements is movable within an interior of the first main portion or of the second main portion, respectively, and wherein the receiving portion is configured to receive the engaging portion and the first and second gates are configured to rotate about their respective normal axis X so that to reach a connected state of the coupling assembly for each cable group an opening between the interior of the first main portion and the interior of the second main portion is formed through which at least one of the first and second conducting element for the respective cable group is configured to slide to electrically couple with the other of the first and second conducting element, thereby electrically coupling each of the first plurality of submarine power cables to a corresponding one of the second plurality of submarine power cables and reaching a connected state of the coupling assembly.
The coupling assembly according to the invention provides a wet mate configuration which allows to connect an electrical device with a power source under wet conditions, i.e., below the water level.
Advantageously, the coupling assembly can be positioned at its final location on the sea bed before the connection between the electrical device and the power source is to be made. Moreover, the coupling assembly is relatively compact which advantageously provides a (physical) coupling of submarine power cables with reduced interference in the electrical connection system. Also the compact arrangement provides an improved control of connection by reduction of the contact area between the first and second housings.
According to an aspect, the invention provides the coupling as described above, wherein the first gate comprises a first plate and a second plate stacked on the first plate, the first plate and the second plate each comprising a first through-opening for each cable group and at least one of the first plate and the second plate configured to rotate about the normal axis X so that in a disconnected state of the coupling assembly the first through- openings are misaligned, and the first gate is in a closed state, and the second gate comprising a third plate and a fourth plate on the first plate, the third plate and the fourth plate each comprising a second through-opening for each cable group and at least one of the third plate and fourth plate being rotatable about the normal axis so that in a disconnected state of the coupling assembly the second through-openings are misaligned and the second gate is in a closed state, wherein when reaching the connected state of the assembly, at least one of the first and second plate in the first gate and at least one of the third and fourth plate in the second gate are configured to rotate about their respective normal axis, in a manner that for each cable group each the first and second through openings become aligned and the first and second gates are in an opened state.
According to an aspect, the invention provides the coupling as described above, wherein a part of the first conducting member is integrated as a conducting target plate in the first volume adjacent the through-opening of the first plate of the first gate.
According to an aspect, the invention provides the coupling as described above, wherein the first housing comprises two first inlet portions for electrically coupling a subset of two submarine power cables, each of the two first inlet portions arranged on a face of the first housing, the two faces being opposite faces of the first housing so as to form a T- shaped construction with the receiving portion.
According to an aspect, the invention provides the coupling assembly as described above, wherein an external surface of the engaging portion and the receiving portion is made of carbon steel and a sacrificial element is provided on either the engaging portion or the receiving portion for cathodic protection, the sacrificial element comprising a material selected from magnesium, zinc and aluminium and/or alloys based on magnesium, zinc and/or aluminium.
According to an aspect, the invention provides the coupling assembly as described above, wherein at least one of the one or more first inlets, of the one or more second inlets, of the first main portion or second main portion encloses a liquid insulating material consisting of a dielectric oil.
According to an aspect, the invention provides the coupling assembly as described above, wherein the first and second housings further comprise a pressure compensator for controlling and altering the pressure of the dielectric oil to adjust to local external water pressure.
According to an aspect, the invention provides the coupling assembly as described above, wherein the dielectric oil is a non-mineral oil, preferably an oil based on synthetic ester.
According to an aspect, the invention provides the coupling assembly as described above, wherein at least one of a group comprising the one or more first inlets, the one or more second inlets, the first main portion and second main portion further encloses a solid insulating material at restricted locations around the first and/or second conducting elements.
According to an aspect, the invention provides the coupling assembly as described above, wherein the second coupling member is equipped with a hydraulic jack mechanically connected to the second conducting element for translating the second conducting element within the engaging element and through the first and second through-openings to electrically couple to the first conducting element, when in the connected state of the coupling assembly.
According to an aspect, the invention provides the coupling assembly as described above, wherein the second coupling member is further equipped with an actuator electronically connected to an external control unit above sea level configured to power and actuate the hydraulic jack.
According to an aspect, the invention provides the coupling assembly as described above, wherein at least one of the first coupling member and the second coupling member further comprises a supporting frame for stabilizing onto the sea bed.
According to an aspect, the invention provides the coupling assembly as described above, wherein the number of cable groups is either one or three.
According to an aspect, the invention provides the coupling assembly as described above, wherein the number of cable groups is based on a number of phases of the power current running over the cables during operation.
According to an aspect, the invention provides a method of electrically coupling submarine power cables to each other in a body of water, while below the water level, the method comprising:
Providing a coupling assembly as described above, above water level;
Electrically coupling an end of the first plurality submarine power cables to the one or more first inlet portions of the first coupling member of the coupling assembly, and an end of the second plurality of submarine power cables to the one or more second inlet portions of the second coupling member of the coupling assembly;
Immersing the first coupling member in the body of water until it rests on the sea bed; Immersing the second coupling member in the body of water until it floats near or at the sea bed;
Directing the second coupling member to approach the first coupling member so that the engaging portion is received on the receiving portion;
Rotating at least part of the first and second gates until the first and second through- openings are aligned;
Sliding the second conducting member for each cable group through the aligned first and second through openings until the second conducting member electrically contacts the first conducting member of the respective cable group.
According to an aspect, the invention provides the method as described above, wherein sliding the second conducting member comprises that the second conducting member is translated to and through the aligned first and second through openings by action of a hydraulic jack supporting the second conducting member.
According to an aspect, the invention provides the method as described above, where coupling is carried out at a depth up to about 3000 metres below sea level.
Advantageous embodiments are further defined by the dependent claims.
Brief description of drawings
The invention will be explained in more detail below with reference to drawings in which illustrative embodiments thereof are shown. The drawings are intended exclusively for illustrative purposes and not as a restriction of the inventive concept. The scope of the invention is only limited by the definitions presented in the appended claims.
Figure 1 shows schematically a perspective view of a coupling assembly according to an embodiment of the invention;
Figure 2 shows a perspective view of the coupling assembly during connection phase; Figure 3 shows a cross-sectional view of the coupling assembly during the connection phase;
Figure 4 shows a cross-sectional view of the coupling assembly in the connected state;
Figure 5 shows a cross-sectional view of the coupling assembly in a next stage;
Figure 6 shows a cross-sectional view of the coupling assembly when electrically connected.
In the Figures entities with the same reference number as shown in the preceding figures refer to corresponding, same or similar entities.
Detailed description of embodiments
Figure 1 shows schematically a perspective view of a coupling assembly 1 according to an embodiment of the invention while not connected. The coupling assembly comprises a first coupling member 2 and a second coupling member 8, which are shown in Figure 1 , in disconnected mode.
The first coupling member 2 is configured to be positioned on a seabed S and is arranged as a contact terminal for a first submarine power cable 20 that extends over the surface of the seabed (not shown in detail).
The first coupling member 2 comprises a first housing 3 holding first circuitry for electrically coupling to the first plurality of submarine power cables. At a first surface the first housing 3 comprises a receiving portion 7 for receiving an engaging portion 13 of the second coupling member 8. In this embodiment, when the first coupling member 2 is deployed on the seabed, the receiving portion 7 is facing up from the seabed. At a second surface of the first housing 2 one or more first inlet portions 5 are provided for electrical coupling the first plurality of submarine power cables 20 to the first circuitry.
The second coupling member 8 is arranged as a contact terminal for a second submarine power cable 22 to be connected to the first submarine power cable 20 via the first coupling member 2.
The second coupling member 8 comprises a second housing 9 holding second circuitry for electrically coupling to the second plurality of submarine power cables.
In the embodiment as shown, the coupling assembly 1 comprises a foundation structure 4 which is attached to the first coupling member 2 and provides a structural support on the seabed S. The foundation structure further comprises guiding beams 60 attached to the structure. The guiding beams are each configured to cooperate with a slider 61 (or similar element) that is attached to the second coupling member 8 and configured to translate along the respective guiding beam.
At one surface thereof the second housing 9 comprises the engaging portion 13 for coupling to the receiving portion of the first coupling member 2. At another surface of the second housing one or more inlet portions 11 are provided for electrical coupling the second plurality of submarine power cables 22 to the second circuitry.
Figure 2 shows a perspective view of the coupling assembly during a connection phase.
As shown in Figure 2, during installation the second coupling member 8 is located above the first coupling member 2 by an installation mechanism (not shown here) for example a crane or a remotely operated underwater vehicle.
At a first surface thereof the first housing 3 comprises a receiving portion 7 for receiving an engaging portion 13 of the second coupling member 8. In this embodiment, when the first coupling member 2 is deployed on the seabed, the receiving portion 7 is facing up from the seabed. At a second surface of the first housing 2 one or more first inlet portions 5 are provided for electrical coupling the first plurality of submarine power cables 20 to the first circuitry.
At one surface thereof the second housing 9 comprises an engaging portion 13 for coupling to the receiving portion of the first coupling member 2. At another surface of the second housing one or more inlet portions 11 are provided for electrical coupling the second plurality of submarine power cables 22 to the second circuitry.
The receiving portion 7 of the first coupling member 2 is facing substantially upward while the engaging portion 13 (not shown here) of the second coupling member 8 is facing substantially downward. In an embodiment, the engaging portion 13 of the second coupling member s is constructed to have a cover element 63 arranged downward above the first surface 7 of the first coupling member 2.
By disposing the cover element 63 on the second coupling member 8, the interface between the first and second members 2, 8 during the connection phase is shielded from the environment.
The receiving portion 7 and the engaging portion 13 comprise a first and a second panel, respectively, each preferably having a circular shape. In each of the first and second panels, three gates are arranged around a centre of rotation. Accordingly, the design may be based on one gate per phase of the current in a three phase power system.
The gates are configured as a barrel type door for opening/closing a corresponding through opening in the circular panel. This will be described in more detail with reference to Figures 3, 4 and 5.
It will be appreciated that in other embodiments instead of three gates another number of gates, e.g. one gate or two gates, may be arranged in the panels.
Figure 3 shows a cross-sectional view of the coupling assembly during the connection phase.
In the lower part of the drawing, the first coupling member 2 is shown. The second coupling member s is shown positioned above, with the engaging portion 13 vertically aligned with the receiving portion 7.
The first housing 3 of the first coupling member 2 comprises a first volume 6 which is defined by walls of the first housing 3 that are configured to enclose the first volume 6. The top side of the first volume 6 comprises the first circular panel in which an opening is provided at the side of the receiving portion 7 which is sealable by a first gate 40. The first gate 40 is positioned at an interface between the first volume 6 and the receiving portion 7. Likewise, the second housing 9 of the second coupling member 8 comprises a second volume 12 which is defined by walls of the second housing 9 that are configured to enclose the second volume.
The bottom side of the second volume 12 comprises the second circular panel in which an opening is provided at the side of the engaging portion 13 which is sealable by a second gate 45. The second gate 45 is positioned at an interface between the second volume 12 and the engaging portion 13.
In an embodiment, the first gate 40 is a rotating gate door consisting of a stack of a circular first plate 41 and a circular second plate 42. The circular second plate 42 is arranged between the circular first plate 41 and the first volume 6.
Each plate 41 , 42 comprises a first through-opening 43, 44. The first plate 41 is configured to rotate relative to the second plate 42 about the common normal axis X of the plates so that in a disconnected state of the coupling assembly 1 the first through-openings 43, 44 are misaligned, and the first gate 40 is in a closed state.
Likewise, the second gate 45 is a rotating gate consisting of a stack of a circular third plate 46 and a circular fourth plate 47. The circular fourth plate 47 is arranged between the circular third plate 46 and the second volume 12. Each plate 46, 47 comprises a second through-opening 48, 49. The third plate 46 is configured to rotate relative to the fourth plate 47 about the common normal axis X of the plates so that in a disconnected state of the coupling assembly 1 the second through-openings 48, 49 are misaligned, and the second gate 45 is in a closed state, closing off the second volume 12 from the external.
In the embodiment, the circular first plate 41 is configured to releasably attach to the circular third plate 46 when the engaging portion 13 and the receiving portion 7 are in connected position. In this embodiment either the first volume 6 or the second volume 12 comprises a rotating drive 50 for simultaneously rotating the circular first 41 and third 46 plates relative to the circular second 42 and fourth 47 plate around the common normal axis X.
In an alternative embodiment, the first volume comprises a first rotating drive 51 (not shown) for rotating the circular first plate 41 relative to the circular second plate 42 around the common normal axis X and the second volume comprises a second rotating drive 50 for rotating the circular third plate 46 relative to the circular fourth plate 47 around the common normal axis X.
The first volume 6 comprises and encloses an elongated first conducting element 30, such as a metallic rod, that at a first end connects to the first submarine power cable 20 at the inlet portion 5 and extends to a second end at which the first conducting element 30 has a conductive target plate 301 which is positioned adjacent to the second plate of the first gate. The first through opening 44 of the second plate 42 coincides with the circumference of the conductive target plate 301. Thus in the disconnected state the first through opening 43 of the first plate 41 of the first gate 40 is misaligned with the first through opening 44 of the second plate, the conductive target plate 301 is covered by a surface portion of the first plate 43 and the first volume is closed off from the external.
The second volume 12 comprises and encloses an elongated second conducting element 31, such as a second metallic rod, that at a first end connects to the second submarine power cable 22 at the inlet portion 11 of the second volume.
According to an embodiment both the first and second conducting elements 30, 31 are covered at least partially with a solid insulating material (not shown) around the first and/or second conducting elements 30, 31.
Figure 4 shows a cross-sectional view of the coupling assembly when connected. During the connecting phase the engaging portion 13 of the second coupling member 8 is arranged on the receiving portion 7 of the first coupling member 2. The first plate 41 of the first gate 40 is thus adjacent to the third plate 46 of the second gate 45, while both the first and second gate are each in closed state, such that the first and second volume are each isolated from the environment, i.e. surrounding water, before and during connecting. The second conducting element 31 is configured to extend and contact at a second end thereof the conductive target plate 301 of the first conducting element 30 through the first and second through openings 43, 44; 48, 49, when the first and second coupling parts are in a connected state. In that circumstance, the first through openings 43, 44 of the first and second plate 41 , 42 are aligned with the second through openings 48, 49 of the third and fourth plates 46,47.
Figure 5 shows a cross-sectional view of the coupling assembly in a next stage.
In a next stage, when the first plate 41 is adjacent to the third plate 46, the first volume 6 and the second volume 12 are coupled to each other by aligning the first through openings with the second through openings. The aligning step is carried out by rotating both the first plate 41 and the third plate 46 around the common normal axis X to an opened position where the first through openings 43, 44 of the first and second plates 41, 42 coincide and the second through openings 48, 49 of the third and fourth plates 46, 47 coincide. After reaching the opened position of the first and second through openings, the first and second volumes 6, 12 are communicatively coupled. The conductive target plate 301 is thus exposed to the second volume 12, for contact by the second conducting element 31.
Figure 6 shows a cross-sectional view of the coupling assembly when electrically connected.
After aligning the first and second through openings to connect the first and second volumes, an electrical connection is created between the second end of the second conducting element 31 and the conductive target plate 301 of the first conducting element 30 through the first and second through openings 43, 44; 48, 49. The second conducting element 31 is translated by a driving mechanism 64 towards the conductive target plate until the second conducting element contacts the target plate 301.
In an embodiment, the second coupling member 8 is further equipped with an actuator electronically connected to a control unit 62 configured to actuate the operation of the gates 40, 45 by means of the rotating drive 50.
In a further embodiment, the control unit 62 is configured to actuate the hydraulic jack 64.
The control unit 62 can be located at the exterior of the coupling assembly 1 for actuating by an ROV. Alternatively, the control unit may be located at a remote location, coupled by a wired connection to the hydraulic jack 64 (or the actuator driving the hydraulic jack) in the coupling assembly. The hydraulic jack 64 is thus operated by the control unit 62.
According to an embodiment the hydraulic jack 64 is arranged within the second volume 12 and is capable of translating the second conducting element 30 towards or away from the target plate 301. In an embodiment the second conducting element 30 is carried by a moveable frame that translates the second conducting element relative to the target plate 301.
By contacting the second conducting element 31 with the target plate 301 , the first and second subsea power cables 20, 22 are connected and ready for transfer of electric power. As such the structure of the coupling assembly is designed for HV applications of about 11 kV and higher.
The coupling assembly 1 is configured for transfer of high voltage electrical power below sea level. The target plate 301 and the second conducting element 31 , as well as the first and second housings or enclosures 3, 9 of the first and second volumes 6, 12 are each manufactured from carbon steel.
In an embodiment cathodic protection elements (not shown) comprising magnesium, aluminium and/or zinc are provided on the exterior of the first and second housings.
Both the first and second volumes contain an oil that has the function of a dielectric for insulating the electric components in the first and second volumes. In an embodiment, the dielectric oil is a synthetic ester based on non-mineral oil, which improves the resistance to water ingress in the first and second volumes. Also the synthetic ester improves the insulating resistance of the volumes reducing the electrical breakdown probability, and allows to operate at relatively high voltages. In some embodiments the operating voltage is between about 70 and 150 kV (AC).
The synthetic ester based oil has a benefit to provide a biodegradable and non-toxic insulation material with lower risks for the environment in case of accidental leakage. in an embodiment, the coupling assembly 1 is provided with a pressure compensation system (schematically indicated by arrow P in Figure 1) to adjust the internal pressure within the first and second volumes relative to the surrounding water pressure. The pressure compensation system is configured to negate effects of pressure differential at depth. In particular the pressure compensation system changes the internal pressure in the first and second volumes to counteract the risk of collapse/implosion at large sea depths, for example up to operational depths of about 3000 m.
In an embodiment the coupling assembly 1 is configured for connecting a single phase electric current over one or more first 20 and one or more second power cables 22, all configured for carrying current with same phase. In an alternatively embodiment the coupling assembly 1 is configured for connecting a multi-phase (e.g. tri-phase) electric current over the first plurality of power cables 20 and the second plurality of power cables 22, where the potential phase may differ between different pairs of connected first and second power cables.
In case of a three phase coupling, a preferable electrical coupling can be provided between submarine cables for transfer of power between a fixed installation located either onshore, offshore or subsea and a floating offshore installation. Non-limiting examples of such electrical couplings are between a FPSO and an onshore power station, between a FPSO and a (floating) wind turbine or windfarm and between an offshore wind turbine/windfarm and an onshore power grid.
The structure of the coupling assembly 1 is designed for relatively large depths of operation with the capability to connect power cables at such depth. In an embodiment the coupling assembly may be deployed at a depth of about 3000 m below water surface.
It will be appreciated that the design of the high voltage subsea connector can also used in anti-explosive environment top-side applications such as hydrocarbon processing.
The invention has been described with reference to embodiments. Obvious modifications and alterations will occur to others upon reading and understanding the preceding detailed description. It is intended that the invention be construed as including all such modifications and alterations insofar as they come within the scope of the appended claims.

Claims

Claims
1. A coupling assembly (1) for electrically coupling a first plurality of submarine power cables (20) to a second plurality of submarine power cables (22), the first and second plurality of submarine power cables arranged in one or more cable groups, the coupling assembly (1) comprising: a first coupling member (2) comprising a first housing (3) for electrically coupling to the first plurality of submarine power cables (20); a second coupling member (8) comprising a second housing (9) for electrically coupling to the second plurality of submarine power cables (22); the first housing (3) of the first coupling member (2) comprising: one or more first inlet portions (5) for electrical coupling to the first plurality of submarine power cables (20), a first main portion (6) adjacent to each of the one or more inlet portions (5) and enclosing per cable group a first conducting member (30) for electrically coupling to each of the first plurality submarine power cables (20) of the respective cable group via the one or more of the first inlet portions (5), a receiving portion (7) adjacent to the first main portion (6), a first gate (40) positioned at an interface between the first main portion (6) and the receiving portion (7) for closing off the first main portion (6), and the second housing (9) of the second coupling member (8) comprising: one or more second inlet portions (11) for electrical coupling to the second plurality of submarine power cables (22), a second main portion (12) adjacent to the one or more second inlet portions (11), an engaging portion (13) adjacent to the second main portion (12), per cable group a second conducting element (31) positioned in the engaging portion (13) and configured for the electrically coupling to the second plurality of submarine power cables (22) of the respective cable group via the one or more second inlet portions (11), a second gate (45) positioned in the engaging portion (13) for closing off the engaging portion (13), wherein per cable group at least one of the first and second conducting elements is movable within an interior of the first main portion (6) or of the second main portion (12), respectively, and wherein the receiving portion (7) is configured to receive the engaging portion (13) and the first and second gates (40, 45) are configured to rotate about their respective normal axis (X) so that to reach a connected state of the coupling assembly (1) for each cable group an opening between the interior of the first main portion (6) and the interior of the second main portion (13) is formed through which at least one of the first and second conducting element (30, 31) for the respective cable group is configured to slide to electrically couple with the other of the first and second conducting element (30, 31), thereby electrically coupling each of the first plurality of submarine power cables (20, 22) to a corresponding one of the second plurality of submarine power cables and reaching a connected state of the coupling assembly (1).
2. The coupling assembly (1) according to claim 1 , wherein the first gate (40) comprises a first plate (41) and a second plate (42) stacked on the first plate (41), the first plate (41) and the second plate (42) each comprising a first through-opening (43, 44) for each cable group and at least one of the first plate (41) and the second plate (42) configured to rotate about the normal axis (X) so that in a disconnected state of the coupling assembly (1) the first through-openings (43, 44) are misaligned, and the first gate is in a closed state and the second gate (45) comprising a third plate (46) and a fourth plate (47) on the first plate (46), the third plate (46) and the fourth plate (47) each comprising a second through-opening (48, 49) for each cable group and at least one of the third plate (46) and fourth plate (47) being rotatable about the normal axis (X) so that in a disconnected state of the coupling assembly (1) the second through-openings (46, 47) are misaligned and the second gate is in a closed state, wherein when reaching the connected state of the assembly, at least one of the first (41) and second plate (42) in the first gate (40) and at least one of the third and fourth plate (46, 47) in the second gate (45) are configured to rotate about their respective normal axis (X), in a manner that for each cable group each the first and second through openings become aligned and the first and second gates are in an opened state.
3. The coupling assembly (1) according to claim 2, wherein a part of the first conducting member (30) is integrated as a conducting target plate (301) in the first volume (6) adjacent the through-opening (43) of the first plate (41) of the first gate (40).
4. The coupling assembly (1) according to any one of the preceding claims, wherein the first housing (6) comprises two first inlet portions (5) for electrically coupling a subset of two submarine power cables (20), each of the two first inlet portions (5) arranged on a face (F1 , F2) of the first housing (6), the two faces (F1, F2) being opposite faces of the first housing (6) so as to form a T-shaped construction with the receiving portion (7).
5. The coupling assembly (1) according to any one of the preceding claims, wherein an external surface of the engaging portion (13) and the receiving portion (7) is made of carbon steel and a sacrificial element is provided on either the engaging portion or the receiving portion for cathodic protection, the sacrificial element comprising a material selected from magnesium, zinc and aluminium and/or alloys based on magnesium, zinc and/or aluminium.
6. The coupling assembly (1) according to any one of the preceding claims, wherein at least one of the one or more first inlets (5), of the one or more second inlets (11), of the first main portion (6) or second main portion (12) encloses a liquid insulating material consisting of a dielectric oil.
7. The coupling assembly (1) according to claim 6, wherein the first and second housings (6, 9) further comprise a pressure compensator for controlling and altering the pressure of the dielectric oil to adjust to local external water pressure.
8. The coupling assembly (1) according to claim 6 or claim 7, wherein the dielectric oil is a non-mineral oil, preferably an oil based on synthetic ester.
9. The coupling assembly (1) according to any one of claim 7 or claim 8, wherein at least one of a group comprising the one or more first inlets (5), the one or more second inlets (11), the first main portion (6) and second main portion (12) further encloses a solid insulating material at restricted locations around the first and/or second conducting elements (30, 31).
10. The coupling assembly (1) according to any one of the preceding claims, wherein the second coupling member (8) is equipped with a hydraulic jack (64) mechanically connected to the second conducting element (31) for translating the second conducting element (31) within the engaging element (13) and through the first and second through-openings to electrically couple to the first conducting element (30), when in the connected state of the coupling assembly.
11 . The coupling assembly (1) according to claim 10, wherein the second coupling member (8) is further equipped with an actuator electronically connected to an external control unit above sea level configured to power and actuate the hydraulic jack.
12. The coupling assembly (1) according to any one of the preceding claims, wherein at least one of the first coupling member (2) and the second coupling member (8) further comprises a supporting frame (4) for stabilizing onto the sea bed.
13. The coupling assembly (1) according to any one of the preceding claims, wherein the number of cable groups is either one or three.
14. The coupling assembly (1) according to any one of the preceding claims, wherein the number of cable groups is based on a number of phases of the power current running over the cables during operation.
15. A method (100) of electrically coupling submarine power cables to each other in a body of water while below the water level (50), the method comprising:
Providing (110) a coupling assembly (1) according to any one of claims 1-14 above water level;
Electrically coupling (120) an end of the first plurality submarine power cables (20) to the one or more first inlet portions (5) of the first coupling member (3) of the coupling assembly, and an end of the second plurality of submarine power cables (22) to the one or more second inlet portions (11) of the second coupling member of the coupling assembly;
Immersing (130) the first coupling member (2) in the body of water until it rests on the sea bed;
Immersing (140) the second coupling member (8) in the body of water until it floats near or at the sea bed;
Directing (150) the second coupling member (8) to approach the first coupling member (2) so that the engaging portion (13) is received on the receiving portion (7);
Rotating (160) at least part of the first and second gates (40, 45) until the first and second through-openings (43, 44, 48. 49) are aligned;
Sliding (170) the second conducting member (31) for each cable group through the aligned first and second through openings (43, 44, 48, 49) until the second conducting member (31) electrically contacts the first conducting member (30, 301) of the respective cable group.
16. The method according to claim 15, wherein sliding the second conducting member comprises that the second conducting member (31) is translated to and through the aligned first and second through openings by action of a hydraulic jack supporting the second conducting member (31).
17. The method according to any one of the preceding claims 15 and 16, where coupling is carried out at a depth up to about 3000 metres below sea level.
PCT/EP2025/060302 2024-04-19 2025-04-14 Subsea high voltage connector device Pending WO2025219355A1 (en)

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EP24171248.8 2024-04-19

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Citations (4)

* Cited by examiner, † Cited by third party
Publication number Priority date Publication date Assignee Title
US4142770A (en) 1977-12-27 1979-03-06 Exxon Production Research Company Subsea electrical connector
US5645438A (en) * 1995-01-20 1997-07-08 Ocean Design, Inc. Underwater-mateable connector for high pressure application
US20150378125A1 (en) * 2013-02-15 2015-12-31 Prysmian S.P.A. Wet mateable connection assembly for electrical and/or optical cables
CN116315944A (en) * 2023-02-10 2023-06-23 大连理工大学 Quick repair device and repair method based on cathodic protection of underwater plug-in electrical connector

Patent Citations (4)

* Cited by examiner, † Cited by third party
Publication number Priority date Publication date Assignee Title
US4142770A (en) 1977-12-27 1979-03-06 Exxon Production Research Company Subsea electrical connector
US5645438A (en) * 1995-01-20 1997-07-08 Ocean Design, Inc. Underwater-mateable connector for high pressure application
US20150378125A1 (en) * 2013-02-15 2015-12-31 Prysmian S.P.A. Wet mateable connection assembly for electrical and/or optical cables
CN116315944A (en) * 2023-02-10 2023-06-23 大连理工大学 Quick repair device and repair method based on cathodic protection of underwater plug-in electrical connector

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