Inventors:
Edward W. Huang - Houston TX
Frank Shih-Fai Chou - Bellingham WA
Jun Zou - Houston TX
Assignee:
ABB Lummus Global, Inc. - Houston TX
International Classification:
B63B 3544
US Classification:
405209, 405205, 405206, 114226, 114264
Abstract:
An offshore well platform is towed in an upright condition to a well site by the use of a temporary flotation device. The flotation device mounts to a portion of the platform and is partially submerged, increasing the ability and buoyancy of the platform. At the site, the engagement of the flotation device shifts to a deploying position. In the deploying position, the ballast of the platform is increased to cause it to more deeply submerge. The flotation device remains at least partially surrounding the platform and floating while the platform moves downwardly relative to it. This provides lateral support if needed to prevent heeling while being submerged. The flotation device is disengageable from the platform when the platform is fully submerged.