Bridon Neptune Quay opens on River Tyne

UK manufacturer Bridon International opened a new state-of-the-art factory at Bridon Neptune Quay (BNQ) on the banks of the River Tyne earlier this month. The new facility will manufacture the world’s largest offshore ropes.

The facility will have the capacity to produce highly engineered ropes in package weights of 650 tonnes, boasting enhanced breaking loads, optimised bend fatigue performance, effective lubrication and minimal rotation under load.

The factory includes the largest rope-closing machine, constructed by German engineering company SKET. This machine will allow the company to produce far more complex ropes than had ever previously been possible with such weights.

“We have worked closely with customers to understand the challenges they face in reaching greater depths in some of the toughest conditions on earth; thanks to this collaborative approach, ropes constructed at Bridon Neptune Quay will not only be the most advanced in the world, but will also be uniquely tailored to tackle 21^st century offshore challenges,” said Jon Templeman, CEO, Bridon Group.

Now operational, Bridon Neptune Quay is already taking on orders from multinational operators. The factory’s portside location, along with its take up stand for lifting reels directly from dock to vessel, will help Bridon to significantly improve logistics.

UK business and enterprise minister Michael Fallon opened the new premises. Industry leaders from companies such as Heerema, NOV and Certex attended the opening ceremony.