SYSTEMS AND METHODS FOR TETHERING SUBSEA BLOWOUT PREVENTERS TO ENHANCE THE STRENGTH AND FATIGUE RESISTANCE OF SUBSEA WELLHEADS AND PRIMARY CONDUCTORS

摘要

A system for tethering a subsea blowout preventer (BOP) includes a plurality of anchors disposed about the subsea BOP and secured to the sea floor. In addition, the system includes a plurality of tensioning systems, wherein each tensioning system is coupled to a frame of the BOP. Further, the system includes a plurality of flexible tension members, wherein each tension member is coupled to one of the anchors. Each tension member extends from a first end coupled to one of the tensioning systems to a second end coupled to an anchor. Each tensioning system is configured to apply a tensile preload to one of the tension members.