Self-tensioning tendon for tension leg platform application

摘要

A self-tensioning tendon (10) for pulling a tension leg platform (TLP) (2) down to a desired draft position. The self-tensioning tendon (10) can be utilized with either a co-installation process or a pre-installation process and connects to an assembled tendon joint. The self-tensioning tendon (10) comprises a hydraulically controlled Length Adjustment Joint (LAJ) (17) that further comprises an integral cylinder (18) with external threads and a piston rod (20). The self-tensioning apparatus (10) has features that advantageously reduce the time required to ballast the hull of the TLP (2). A hydraulic source actuates the integral cylinder (18) to pull the TLP (2) down to the target draft position, significantly reducing the time needed to ballast the hull of the TLP (2) with millions of gallons of water. A Top Tendon Connector (TTC) (16) ratchets down along the cylinder (18) to lock the TLP (2) at the final draft position.