Development of an axial load bearing ring for use on double served strength member electromechanical marine cable

The introduction of high speed oceanographic towing systems has resulted in an increased use of faired cable. In addition, faired cables have produced a requirement for axial load bearing rings. The technology of these rings, generally known as antistacking rings, has been slow to develop due to the environment they must survive and the restrictions imposed upon them by double served strength member electromechanical marine cable on which they are employed. This paper will summarie nine year of study resulting in the production of a series of "anti-stacking" rings suitable for use on armored contrahelically wound electromechanical marine cable. The design and development of these anti-stacking rings will be discussed in detail with special emphasis placed on the analysis of hydrodynamic and mechanical forces as experienced during inhouse testing and recent sea trials.