Nexans and HTS Dynamics – Together for the world's digital backbone
Subsea fiber optic cables serve as the backbone of global communication, carrying 99 % of the world's data traffic. Behind this critical infrastructure stands Nexans, which has chosen HTS Dynamics as a supplier. This collaboration combines technological and mechanical expertise, ensuring reliable deliveries with high precision.
These underwater fiber optic cables enable the internet and telecommunications that connect nations, offshore installations, islands, and continents – entire societies.
Nexans has delivered tens of thousands of kilometers of subsea fiber optic cables for various global projects since 1995. Their customers include telecommunications providers, energy companies, and the public sector. Nexans is a global leader in cable systems and services, with 28,500 employees across 41 countries. In Norway, fiber cables are produced at the Rognan factory, and the company is also a leader in offshore control cables and high-voltage submarine cable systems.
A joint effort – built on innovation and trust
Nexans sought a local and reliable supplier capable of delivering precise components for their subsea fiber optic cables, specifically steel joints and branching components. They chose HTS Dynamics, an experienced company specializing in machining, welding, and assembly for the subsea industry.
The collaboration started modestly ten years ago with small deliveries and a more traditional customer-supplier relationship, where Nexans provided drawings that HTS Dynamics machined.
Over the past five years, the relationship has evolved into a closer collaboration characterized by open communication and joint development of drawings, along with many deliveries. Nexans knows that HTS Dynamics is just a phone call away, making communication easy both ways – a benefit for both parties.
"Today, Nexans contacts us at the beginning of the design process for the components they want us to manufacture, so we can discuss solutions. This allows Nexans to get faster and more cost-effective solutions while we ensure optimal machinability," says Ole-Jørgen Myhre, Project Manager at HTS Dynamics.
Together with his colleagues at the machining company located in Drammen, he values the opportunity to use years of accumulated expertise and experience for an exciting client like Nexans.
"HTS Dynamics has a solution-oriented approach and the ability to quickly adapt to changing needs. Their expertise in combining advanced machining with practical experience in underwater environments was one of the reasons we chose them as a supplier," says Atle Skaug.
Photo: Nexans
Solutions for extreme conditions
Fiber cables laid on the seabed must withstand extreme conditions such as high pressure, corrosion, thermal variations, and mechanical stress from installation and operation. The same requirements apply to the joint and branching solutions produced by HTS Dynamics.
For HTS Dynamics, working with Nexans is not their first encounter with manufacturing for harsh marine environments.
"We are accustomed to meeting the requirements set by NORSOK, the standard for the Norwegian continental shelf, as a supplier to the oil and gas industry. Subsea fiber cables are just as critical as the oil and gas industry. We ensure full traceability and certification for all materials we use and conduct our own tests on the steel we procure. Everything we manufacture is documented and delivered with a complete documentation package," says Ole-Jørgen Myhre.
"We are committed to delivering at the highest level. Cutting corners is never an option for us," he adds.
NORFEST is a fiber cable that stretches between Oslo and Stavanger, with branches to ten locations along the coast, including one to Sweden. HTS Dynamics delivered large-scale joint solutions for the project with high precision and adherence to tight deadlines. The development, ownership, and operation of the NORFEST cable are managed by Tampnet.
"We are satisfied with the quality of HTS Dynamics' deliveries. They provide precise and robust components that meet Nexans' strict specifications," says Skaug.
Skaug also highlights the advantages of Norwegian production:
“Manufacturing in Norway ensures shorter delivery times, high quality, and better collaboration through close communication and quick adaptation to changes.”
Efficient processes and close collaboration
A key advantage of the collaboration is the shared focus on design and production optimization. Early involvement helps avoid time-consuming adjustments later.
HTS Dynamics contributes by suggesting machining-friendly solutions, such as advising on surface treatment placement. These are relatively simple adjustments, but together they can significantly reduce production time and costs.
"We greatly appreciate that Nexans involves us early in the process. It allows us to optimize the design together and ensure more efficient production. The connection between the customer and production is very direct. We can quickly adapt processes and find solutions together with Nexans," says Ole-Jørgen Myhre.
Results that provide a competitive edge
"The collaboration with HTS Dynamics has increased efficiency and improved quality, strengthening Nexans' position in the market. A concrete example is the development of a new type of joint solution, where HTS was involved early in the design phase. This facilitated quicker clarifications and a more efficient production process," says Atle Skaug of Nexans.
A partnership for the future
Both HTS Dynamics and Nexans look forward to further developing their collaboration. With the increasing demand for complex cable systems in renewable energy and other sectors, the partnership will continue to focus on innovation, quality, and sustainability.
"We are proud to be a supplier to one of the world's most important infrastructures and look forward to contributing to future challenges with innovative solutions," says Myhre.
"We appreciate HTS Dynamics' solution-oriented approach and technical expertise. This enables us to deliver quality and reliability to our customers worldwide," says Skaug.
Subsea expertise paving the way for green energy
The expertise and experience HTS Dynamics has gained from years of work in the subsea and oil and gas industries are highly relevant for the transition to renewable energy. Their knowledge of materials, pressure resistance, and extreme environments is now being used to support the development of solutions for offshore wind power and other green energy projects.
"This allows HTS Dynamics to play a crucial role in building the sustainable energy infrastructure of the future," concludes Myhre.