Methods and apparatus for anchoring a submerged structure to a waterbed
US3987636A · kind A · utility
Assignee
Inventors
Key dates
| Filing date | Apr 30, 1975 |
| Grant date | Oct 26, 1976 |
| Priority date | — |
| Expiry date | Apr 30, 1995 |
Classification
- Technology area (CPC E)Fixed Constructions
- CPC primaryE02D5/40
- WIPO fieldCivil engineering
- WIPO sectorOther fields
Abstract
An offshore tower is anchored to a water bed by inserting piling elements into piling jackets located at the tower base and driving the piling elements into the water bed. Grouting material is poured between each jacket and piling element to bond these members together. Grouting material is also poured into the tubular piling elements and into a bell-shaped cavity located therebelow to form a bell footing which anchors the piling element to the water bed. A metallic reinforcement tube which is at least one-half the diameter of the piling element, is inserted into the piling element so as to extend between the piling element and the bell footing. The reinforcing tube presents considerable grouting-encased surface area extending between the piling element and the bell footing to maximize the connection therebetween. In addition, the reinforcing tube effectively reinforces the grouting material against tension, compression, and torsion. Spirally arranged weld beads are affixed to the piling jacket, the piling element, and the reinforcing tube. These weld beads become embedded within the hardened grouting material to firmly secure the tubular elements against longitudinal movement.
Source: USPTO / EPO open patent data. Objective bibliographic and citation counts.