MAX Vertical Tie-in System

MAX Vertical Tie-in system may be used for 1st and 2nd end Connection of flexible
flowlines, umbilicals, Jumper, spools, Rigid Spools and Inline Tees to Manifolds, Xmas
Trees, Sleds, PLETs and PLEMs. Vertical connections are installed directly onto the
receiving hub in one operation during connection.

MAX Vertical Tie-in System

Since the Vertical Connection System does not
require a pull-in capability, it simplifies the tool
functions, provides a time efficient connection
and reduce the length of Rigid Spools. These
systems have no interference with the seabed
during installation and connection, consequently
increasing the subsea visibility during
installation. Vertical Connection Systems may
connect lines of up to 14 OD (12 ID).
This connection system leaves no hydraulic
components subsea. The Vertical connection
system ( V-CAT ) is very compact, requires
minimal mobilization, and is
air transportable world-wide.

Max Mechanical Connector

The MAX mechanical Collet connector with
the V-CAT (Vertical Connector Actuation Tool)
is lifted directly onto the receiving hub.
The V-CAT incorporates a soft-landing device.
Make-up of the Collet Connector is performed
by the Vertical Connector Actuating Tool
( V-CAT ), operated by the ROV.
Hub inspection and cleaning prior to connection
is performed by ROV with dedicated tool
package.

Technical description of
MAX Connector Actuating
Tool (CAT)


CAT Light for pipesize up to 8

Big CAT for pipesize up to 14

All hydraulic components required

for Tie-in integrated in CAT
CAT performes soft landing and
hub alignment during installation
CAT with ROV assistance, performes
Gasket replacement prior to connection
CAT performes external Lock/Unlock and
secondary unlock of MAX connector
CAT hydraulic operations operated
from the ROV

Technical description of
the MAX Mechanical collet
Connector





Mechanical lock/unlock design leaving

no hydraulics subsea
Passive lock/unlock mechanism operated
by CAT
Posivite pre-tention on Locking mechanism
Primary Metal to Metal seal, secondary
non-metal seal
External seal test feature for subsea
verification of proper connection

FMC Technologies April 2008 - 3D illustrations by ID

Installation


The connector is deployed with the MC Gasket

installed



The CAT aligns the connector to the mating hub within

specified design criteria prior to gasket engagement



The specially designed profiles between the hub and

connector body ensure MC gasket protection and that
gasket will be properly situated for seal engagement



Hydraulic fluid dispensed to the CAT by an ROV

provides the power for the following functions: raise/
lower connector, lock/unlock connector, external seal
test on gasket



The locking segments are forced inward by the locking

mandrel to engage the mating hub profile, reloading
the interface and energizing the seal element



The external seal test is performed via the connectors

seal test port



The connector is unlocked by retracting the locking

mandrel using the CAT

www.fmctechnologies.com/subsea

FMC Technologies
1777 Gears Road
Houston TX 77067
USA
Phone: +1 281 591 4000

FMC Technologies
P.O. Box 1012
NO-3601 Kongsberg
Norway
Phone: +47 3228 6700