A tension-leg platform (TLP) is a floating structure secured underwater with anchors and cables. They are commonly used for oil and gas production and have flexible yet sturdy cables to avoid breakage. The platform is secured by anchors and pylons and has accommodations, drilling equipment, and an on-deck power source. The structure is built on land and towed to its position at sea, with up to 16 stakes driven into the seabed to secure a platform leg. Upon arrival, the cables are adjusted while the structure is fixed to the underlying support structure.
A tension-leg platform (TLP) is a floating structure that is secured under water with anchors and cables of varying tension. The platform’s buoyancy on the water helps keep the cables taut, although how they’re threaded can also have an impact. These structures are most commonly used for oil and gas production, although they have also seen some use with offshore wind turbines. They are also known as extended tension leg platforms (ETLPs).
The cables in a tension-leg platform are designed to be flexible, yet sturdy. They allow for a small amount of horizontal movement, in order to avoid breakage and wear from continually battling sea pressure. The cables are taut just enough so that no vertical movement or wobbling is possible. This helps improve productivity and security on the platform.
A tension leg platform is kept floating by a hull on top and secured by anchors and pylons which are driven deep into the sea bed below. This security, combined with the flexibility of the cables, allows the wellheads for oil and gas production to be kept on the platform deck. Before straight-legged platforms came into use, this equipment was located on the ocean floor, which was more expensive, difficult and dangerous to operate.
The platforms are square in shape, with support legs at each corner which are filled with air. They typically have accommodations, drilling equipment, and an on-deck power source. Each platform also has an oil and gas production facility. If the platform is being used for a wind turbine, the deck will be less elaborate and will most likely consist primarily of a single tower.
All the pieces of a straight leg platform are built on land and then towed to its position at sea. Some portions of the structure, such as the pilings, are permanent once they are in place. Up to 16 stakes can be driven into the seabed to secure a platform leg. The upper part of the structure is more flexible and can still be moved once fixed.
While being towed for viewing, the cables for a tension leg platform are pulled back. The anchors for the workpiece are held near the underside of the platform during transport. Upon arrival at the shipyard, the cables are released, with the attached anchors dropping down to the sea bed. Then the cables are adjusted while the structure is fixed to the underlying support structure.
Protect your devices with Threat Protection by NordVPN
