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Document Number: 0072
Rev. 09
CONTROLLED COPY
8.1.4 Removal of Marine Growth and Calcareous Deposits
To remove calcite growth from Siemens Subsea connectors, a solution of 50% Citric Acid is
recommended. All Seawater exposed elastomeric materials in Siemens Subsea connectors have
been fully tested against 50% Citric Acid and are compatible for a duration of 1 hour. In addition, the
thermoplastic materials have good resistance to Citric Acid.
Other acid cleaners, such as 50% Acetic Acid, should not be used as they may cause deterioration of
the elastomeric materials.
Chiselling and abrasive methods are not recommended. Wiping with a soft, clean cloth is acceptable
providing care is taken inside the Receptacle shroud to avoid disturbing the earth continuity contact
(i.e., Multilam or Bal spring type), or to impart a bending load on the power pin/s. Use of water jetting
for the removal of sand/silt is acceptable given the following limitations:
•
All forms of water jet cleaning of connectors in air must be avoided. The likelihood of damage
to connectors is great, given the high localised impact velocities of the water jet.
•
Submerged water jet cleaning of connectors is acceptable, providing the critical areas identified
in Figure 10 are avoided. Particularly, the jet should not be directed at the Plug shuttle pins
as this could result in a risk of water being forced through the primary seals and/or front seal.
Remaining areas indicated below are suitable for submerged water jet cleaning.
*The water jet should not be directed into the mouth of the Receptacle shroud if the connector is fitted
with an earth continuity contact (i.e. Multilam or Bal spring) as this could be displaced.
Figure 10
– Connector power washing precautions
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Summary of Contents for SpecTRON 5
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