Off-shore drilling platform constructed in sections and ballasted - to permit stable towing to drilling site

摘要

Construction of oil drilling or prodn. platform for installation on the sea bed comprises initially producing a floating system consisting of the base and the lowest part of the pillars. The system, which remains floating, is then provided with a girdle, the highest part of the pillars and the deck, the whole being immersed in the water as the construction progress in a sheltered location of sufficient depth. After the ballast is discharged, partic to raise the girdle round the system until it reaches the water level, the structure is stably towed to the drilling site where it is again submerged by supplying ballast. The various operations can be carried out at all times above the water level under ideal conditions. It is possible to maintain the distance between the girdle and base sufficiently great to ensure stability during towing.