Mooring lines
All different stabilizing systems are configured with a number of mooring lines. These lines can vary from chains, wire rope and synthetic fibre ropes with their upper ends attached to different points of the floating structure and lower ends anchored at the seabed. These different types of mooring lines are elaborated below.
chain
Chains are the most common used mooring lines and are available in different diameters and grades. The most commonly used type of chain mooring line is the studlink chain, which is used for moorings that have to be reset numerous times during their lifetime, for instance semi-submersibles. The other chain desing which is used frequently is a studless chain, which is often used for permanent moorings, like FPSO's, buoys etcetera.
wire rope
Wire ropes are common used in offshore mooring liens in two different designs, namely a six strand and spiral strand. Compared to a chain a wire rope a lower weight is needed for the same breaking load and a higher elasticity. To connect the wire rope to other components of the mooring system a socket is used. A downside of a wire rope is that it is generally more prone to damage and corrosion
synthetic fibre rope
Synthetic fibre rope has the advantage of the fact that the material is light weight and has a high elasticity. Typical materials that can be used are polyester and Dyneema, which is a high modulus polyethylene. To connect the synthetic fibre rope to other components of the mooring system the rope is terminated with a special spool and shackle.