Inspection and repair of tubular bracing members of submerged marine structures

摘要

In a submerged marine structure 1 of the tubular trellis type for supporting an off-shore platform the bracing members, in the form of hollow bars 3 are provided at both ends with respective connectors 4 and 5 fitted with protective caps 7, one of the connectors 5 being provided with a non-return valve 8. To check the sealing-tightness of the bars 3, the connector 5 which is fitted with a non-return valve 8 is connected to a compressed air source and a watch maintained to note any release of air bubbles or any drop in pressure. In the event of damage, repair entails injecting cement through one of the connectors 5, the excess being drawn off through the second connector 4, so that the interior of the bar is filled. The injection of the cement makes it possible to restore the strength of the bar. The bar may be sealed externally during the injection of the cement by a two piece steel sleeve (9, fig 4 not shown) lined with a flexible material. IMAGE