How the Bondura Hydraulic Multi Tool 200 Streamlines Pin Removal Offshore
Offshore operations, whether in oil and gas, wind energy, or heavy machinery maintenance, demand precision, safety, and efficiency. The constant battle against harsh marine environments, tight schedules, and complex equipment makes every task critical. One tool that’s been making waves in this high-stakes world is the Bondura Hydraulic Multi Tool 200.
Designed specifically for the removal of conical sleeves and pins ranging from 140 mm to 320 mm in diameter, this tool is a game-changer for offshore maintenance teams. Let’s dive into how it streamlines pin removal, saves time, and keeps operations running smoothly.
The Challenge of Pin Removal in Offshore Environments
If you’ve ever worked offshore, you know pin removal isn’t just about pulling out a piece of metal. Heavy-duty machinery like cranes, top drives, and pipe-handling systems rely on pivot pins to handle massive loads.
Over time, these pins especially those using advanced systems like Bondura’s conical sleeve technology can become seized due to corrosion, wear, or extreme pressure. Traditional methods, like hammers or makeshift pullers, often lead to damaged components, prolonged downtime, and even safety risks.
The offshore setting adds another layer of complexity. Limited space, exposure to saltwater, and the need to minimize downtime mean every tool and process must be efficient and reliable. The Bondura Hydraulic Multi Tool 200 steps in to address these challenges head-on, offering a specialized solution that’s both powerful and precise.
What Is the Bondura Hydraulic Multi Tool 200?
The Bondura Hydraulic Multi Tool 200 is a specialized piece of equipment engineered by Bondura Technology AS, a Norwegian company known for its innovative pin solutions. This tool is designed to remove conical sleeves and pins with diameters between 140 mm and 320 mm, though additional components can extend its range to 140 mm to 195 mm.
It’s a hydraulic-powered system that includes everything you need for disassembly: a hydraulic pump, hoses, manometer, adapter plates, and a robust pulling mechanism.
What sets it apart? It’s built to handle the unique demands of Bondura’s patented pin technology, which uses tapered sleeves to create tight, interference-free connections. These pins are common in offshore equipment like cranes, compensation systems, and drilling rigs. The Multi Tool 200 ensures these components are removed without damage, preserving the integrity of expensive machinery.
Key Features That Drive Efficiency
1. Precision Engineering for Safe Removal
The Bondura Multi Tool 200 is all about precision. Its hydraulic puller and jaws are designed to grip the conical sleeve’s flange securely, ensuring controlled force during removal. The tool uses a threaded rod (M48 or M30 with an adapter) to engage the pin’s center hole, allowing technicians to extract it smoothly. This precision minimizes the risk of damaging the pin or surrounding components, which is critical when replacement parts are costly and delays can cost thousands per hour.
2. Versatility Across Pin Sizes
One of the standout features is its adaptability. The standard package handles pins from 200 mm to 320 mm, but with additional adapter plates, it can manage pins as small as 140 mm. This versatility means one tool can serve multiple applications, reducing the need for multiple specialized kits. For offshore teams working with varied equipment, this is a huge win.
3. Hydraulic Power for Effortless Operation
The tool’s hydraulic system, powered by a pump connected to compressed air, delivers consistent force without requiring brute strength from technicians. The manometer ensures operators can monitor pressure, avoiding overexertion that could damage the equipment. This setup not only speeds up the process but also reduces physical strain, making it safer for workers.
4. Comprehensive Kit for Quick Setup
The Multi Tool 200 comes with everything needed for the job: hydraulic hoses, a lifting eye for easy positioning, adapter plates for non-standard pins, and a pulling plate for even force distribution. This all-in-one design eliminates the need to scramble for compatible parts in the middle of a high-pressure job, streamlining setup and execution.
Streamlining Offshore Pin Removal: How It Works
Let’s break down how the Bondura Hydraulic Multi Tool 200 makes pin removal faster and more efficient:
Step 1: Preparation and Offloading
Before removal begins, the equipment must be offloaded to reduce tension on the pin. This step is crucial to prevent binding and ensure smooth extraction. The tool’s user manual emphasizes this, noting that proper preparation is key to avoiding complications.
Step 2: Conical Sleeve Removal
The process starts with the conical sleeve, which secures the pin in place. Technicians remove any screws or plates holding the sleeve, then assemble the Multi Tool 200. The jaws are fixed behind the sleeve’s flange, and the hydraulic hose is connected to the outer coupling of the puller. Once the pump is activated, the sleeve is gently pulled out, thanks to the controlled hydraulic force.
Step 3: Pin Extraction
With the sleeve removed, the focus shifts to the pin itself. The M48 threaded rod (or M30 with an adapter) is screwed into the pin’s center hole. The hydraulic hose is connected to the inner coupling, and the pump applies force to extract the pin. The tool’s design ensures even pressure, preventing the pin from jamming or damaging the bore.
Step 4: Handling Non-Standard Pins
For pins without an M48 center hole, the Multi Tool 200 offers adapter plates that match the pin’s hole pattern. These plates are secured to the pin, and the threaded rod is attached to the adapter, allowing for seamless extraction. This adaptability is a lifesaver when dealing with custom or legacy equipment.
Benefits for Offshore Operations
Reduced Downtime
Time is money, especially offshore. The Bondura Multi Tool 200 cuts down on disassembly time by providing a streamlined, repeatable process. Unlike traditional methods that might take hours and risk damage, this tool gets the job done quickly and cleanly, keeping rigs and platforms operational.
Enhanced Safety
Safety is non-negotiable in offshore work. The Multi Tool 200’s hydraulic system eliminates the need for manual hammering or risky improvised tools. Its controlled operation reduces the chance of accidents, protecting both workers and equipment.
Cost Savings
By preventing damage to pins and bores, the tool extends the lifespan of critical components. Plus, its availability for both purchase and rental makes it accessible for companies of all sizes, reducing the need for costly custom solutions.
Environmental Durability
Built to withstand harsh offshore conditions, the Multi Tool 200 is robust and corrosion-resistant. It’s designed to perform reliably in salty, wet environments, ensuring it’s ready when you need it.
Real-World Applications
The Bondura Hydraulic Multi Tool 200 shines in industries like offshore oil and gas, wind energy, and heavy machinery maintenance. It’s commonly used for:
- Crane maintenance: Removing pins from section joints and booms.
- Drilling rigs: Servicing top drives and compensation systems.
- Pipe-handling equipment: Ensuring smooth operation of piperack cranes.
- Wind turbines: Maintaining pivot points in offshore wind installations.
For example, a North Sea oil platform recently used the Multi Tool 200 to service a seized pin in a compensation system. What could have been a multi-hour ordeal was completed in under an hour, with no damage to the equipment. Stories like this highlight why the tool is gaining traction among maintenance crews.
Why Choose the Bondura Multi Tool 200?
Compared to alternatives like Enerpac’s PPH-Series or generic hydraulic pullers, the Bondura Multi Tool 200 is tailored specifically for Bondura’s pin technology. While other tools are versatile, they lack the specialized components like adapter plates and conical sleeve jaws that make the Multi Tool 200 so effective for Bondura systems. Its all-in-one design also reduces setup time compared to piecing together a generic kit.
Plus, Bondura’s reputation for quality backs it up. With over 30 years of expertise and DNV GL type approval, their tools are trusted in some of the toughest environments on Earth. Whether you’re maintaining a crane in the North Sea or a wind turbine off the coast of Norway, this tool delivers.
Tips for Getting the Most Out of the Multi Tool 200
- Train Your Team: Only qualified personnel should operate the tool, as improper use can lead to damage or safety issues.
- Follow the Manual: The user manual provides clear steps for setup and operation, so keep it handy.
- Maintain the Tool: Regularly inspect hydraulic components and hoses to ensure they’re in top condition.
- Use the Right Adapters: Double-check pin sizes and hole patterns to select the correct adapter plates.
Final Thoughts
The Bondura Hydraulic Multi Tool 200 is more than just a tool it’s a solution to some of the toughest challenges in offshore maintenance. By combining precision, versatility, and ease of use, it streamlines pin removal, reduces downtime, and keeps safety first.
Whether you’re dealing with a seized pin in a crane or servicing a drilling rig, this tool is built to make your life easier. If you’re looking to boost efficiency and protect your equipment, it’s worth checking out Bondura’s offerings at their official site or through trusted distributors like HAWC Bearings.