Uddcomb in Karlskrona builds customized cable carousels for some of the world's largest submarine cable projects. These structures must handle thousands of tons of cable safely and precisely, requiring construction materials that perform exactly as promised.

High-voltage cables play a vital role in society's energy supply and infrastructure. Many of them run along the seabed, connecting countries, power grids, and energy systems. Before a submarine cable reaches the ocean, however, it must be manufactured, stored, and handled onshore, often in extremely long lengths and under stringent safety and precision requirements.

The finished cable is stored on large, purpose-built cable carousels at manufacturers' facilities. These steel structures resemble enormous turntables, where the cable is stored while awaiting the next stage of the process. Swedish company Uddcomb, based in Karlskrona, manufactures such cable carousels for customers around the world.

High Precision

When thousands of tons of submarine cable rest on a single structure, the margin for error is extremely small. The load must be distributed evenly across wheels and rails, and every component must meet exact dimensions to ensure the carousel functions as intended. This places high demands on materials, dimensional accuracy, and engineering calculations, as any interruption in cable production can be extremely costly.

“The cable itself is very expensive, and a production stoppage can cost several million Swedish kronor per day. That's why we need a product we can rely on. A failure would have major consequences,” says Nils Gustafson, Business Area Manager, New Build at Uddcomb.

Pre-Processing Saves Time

For many years, Uddcomb has sourced the prefabricated steel plates used in its cable carousels from Tibnor. More recently, the collaboration has expanded further. Tibnor now also supplies beams that have been pre-processed in its automated cutting and drilling line in Köping.

There, the beams are cut, angled, and drilled according to Uddcomb's drawings, ensuring they are ready for welding and blasting when they arrive at the production facility in Karlskrona.

“It is a major advantage that Tibnor can process and customize the beams for us. That saves us time and allows us to focus on what we do best, namely welding,” says Nils Gustafson.

A Strong Dialogue

When beams and plates must fit into large welded structures with high precision, cutting, drilling, and dimensions must be correct from the very beginning. This makes close communication with the supplier essential, both before production starts and if adjustments are needed along the way.

“We need suppliers we can trust, suppliers who can deliver what we ask for on time and with the right quality. I believe Tibnor does exactly that. We also have a good dialogue, where they listen to what is important to us and contribute their own ideas on how the process can be improved. We are very pleased with our collaboration with Tibnor,” says Nils Gustafson.

About Uddcomb

Uddcomb is an industrial company based in Karlskrona with extensive experience in advanced welding, engineering, and manufacturing for demanding industries. The company is particularly known for its proprietary Uddcomb Method, a welding technique used to repair, protect, and extend the service life of large pressure vessels and other critical components in industrial facilities.

Uddcomb serves industries including cable manufacturing, nuclear power, energy, and process industries. Its operations are divided into four business areas: New Builds, Lifetime Extensions, Nuclear, and Support & Services.

Within the New Builds business area, Uddcomb manufactures customized cable carousels for high-voltage and submarine cable applications, designed to handle exceptionally large cable loads.