Stretch Electro-Mechanical Cables for Mooring Systems

The National Oceanic and Atmospheric Administration (NOAA), specifically the Great Lakes Environmental Research Laboratory (GLERL) Observing Systems and Advanced Technology (OSAT) branch, requires the purchase of two 50-foot stretch electro-mechanical cables. These cables are crucial for maintaining the functionality of real-time observing buoys by providing a robust link for two-way power and Ethernet communications between the surface buoy and subsurface instruments. The specialized cables are designed to act as a mechanical isolator, stretching up to 1.5 times their original length while protecting internal electrical cores and maintaining necessary mooring tension. The cables must feature specific technical specifications, including a material of 6061-T6 Aluminum Termination Rubber Compound, 8x22 AWG copper conductor wires, and 4x24 AWG twisted pairs. Terminations must be MCIL8sw male connectors with locking sleeves on one end and DIL8sw female connectors with locking sleeves on the other. The design life is expected to be 5-7 years, with a working load of 900kg and a maximum elongation of 1.5 times standard length. They must support data rates up to 100 Mbps and operate within a voltage range of up to 480V. The flange bolt pattern is specified as 6x4.5" diameter with a 0.5" bolt pattern. Delivery is estimated to be 12 weeks after receipt of order, with the delivery location being NOAA/OAR/GLERL in Ann Arbor, MI.