Gravity base of offshore production platform with ice-pentrating peripheral nose sections

Abstract

Abstract A gravity base offshore production platform structure and, more particularly, a production platform for use in an arctic environment, including an encircling structure having a predetermined configuration the protection of the offshore structure in iceberg-infested waters which are capable of resisting the destructive forces of an impact produced by a large iceberg. The gravity base offshore production platform structure consists of a monolithic, massive concrete structure of a configuration providing a plurality or horizontal array of upright, mostly cylindrical compartments, which is supported on a concrete or slab foundation nesting on the marine floor. Generally, although not necessarily, the compartmented structure rises above the marine surface and is covered by a concrete slab or similar covering structure to thereby form closed compartments within the monolithic structure. The circumference of the concrete structure incorporates a plurality of ice-deflecting nose portions which are integrally formed with the wall structure of the exteriorly located compartments of the array, and are reinforced to withstand large iceberg forces upon impact. These reinforced nose portions impart either a "scallop-like" configuration to the circumference of the structure, or when in the shape of substantially pointed wall sections, a "starpoint" form capable of resisting and absorbing extremely high energy of large, fast moving and strong icebergs by progressively crushing the leading edge of an impacting iceberg.

Inventors

• 👤 Ben C. Gerwick, Jr.
• 👤 Edward B. Price
• 👤 Thomas P. Taylor

Bibliographic Details