Roxtec launches new tank boundary solution for the maritime sector

Leading cable and pipe seal manufacturer Roxtec is launching a new tank boundary sealing solution for the maritime sector, after it was used for the first time in the refit of a British naval vessel.

The unique Roxtec TB seal has been created for tank boundary divisions and other high-pressure applications, following extensive R&D work by its technical team. The innovative Roxtec TB seal is equipped with Multidiameter, the manufacturer’s invention for flexibility based on removable rubber layers. It has two halves with removable layers making it adaptable to cables and pipes of different sizes.

It has been used for the first time during the installation of an Ice Load Monitoring System onboard the Royal Navy’s only icebreaker, HMS Protector. It was the only sealing solution that was certified to meet the high requirements of Roxtec customer Kvasir Group when it came to both water-tightness and gas-tightness. The new Roxtec TB seal has been tested for high pressure through a method the company has developed with classification society DNV.

“We needed to pass single and multiple sensor cables through penetrations in tank boundary walls,” explains Jeff Clark, Operations Director at Kvasir Group, which carried out the modifications and upgrades on HMS Protector at UK Docks Teesside. Roxtec has a long-standing relationship with Kvasir Group and the companies worked closely together to meet that challenge.

“Roxtec helped us with seals and sleeves especially suited and certified for tank boundaries, and also by creating bespoke cores for the seals,” says Clark. A major reason why Kvasir chose the Roxtec TB solution is the fact it is certified for both application and sealing requirements. Roxtec representatives performed visual inspections after the cable seal installation work to ensure quality and safety, and supporting information was shared with classification society DNV.

“As this was an installation of new equipment and also a new technical requirement, Kvasir Group approached us to discuss the challenge they faced,” says Jordan McNelly, Roxtec Marine and Offshore Manager North. “We were able to respond quickly, and our technical and commercial support team was able to deliver a bespoke solution for them utilising the new seals we have developed.” He added: “When sealing around cables and pipes where traditional solutions are not certified for use, it is critical to be able to ensure verified protection against water pressure, gas, and fire.

“Our new Roxtec TB seals have been several years in development. The tests that have been carried out confirm that they ensure tightness up to 6.6 bar for water and 1.2 bar for gas in tank installations. In steel decks or bulkheads, the numbers reach 11 bar for catastrophic water pressure and 2 bar for gas pressure. The seals are fire rated to A-60 as well as dust-tight and vibration-proof. The new seals also enable users to secure protection with very few items and without any special tools. The seal can be installed around an existing cable or pipe, which is another plus point for customers. We believe they meet a growing need in the maritime sector.”

UK Docks Marine Services North, has been providing long-term support for the navy’s only icebreaker HMS Protector since April 2019. UK Docks appointed Kvasir to conduct modifications and upgrades with works being undertaken in UK Docks Teesside drydocks location.

The innovative Roxtec TB seal