Definition(s)
Bend stiffener
Device for providing a localized increase in bending stiffness, preserving the minimum bend radius of the umbilical under defined bending moment conditions. NOTE The stiffener is usually a moulded device, sometimes reinforced, depending on the required duty, applied over the umbilical. It is sometimes referred to as a bend strain reliever (BSR).
Source: API RP 17L2, Recommended Practice for Flexible Pipe Ancillary Equipment, First Edition, March 2013. Global Standards
Bend stiffener
Ancillary conical shaped component, which locally supports the pipe to limit bending stresses and curvature of the pipe to acceptance levels. NOTE Bend stiffeners can be either attached to an end fitting or a support structure where the flexible pipe passes through the bend stiffener.
Source: API SPEC 17J, Specification for Unbonded Flexible Pipe, Third Edition, July 2008. Global Standards