Patent · US Expired

Self-standing marine riser

US4436451A · kind A · utility

17Cited by
19References
14Claims
0Family size

Inventor

Key dates

Filing dateMay 18, 1981
Grant dateMar 13, 1984
Priority date
Expiry dateMay 18, 2001

Classification

  • Technology area (CPC E)Fixed Constructions
  • CPC primaryE21B17/015
  • WIPO fieldTransport
  • WIPO sectorMechanical engineering

Abstract

A self standing marine riser is provided which comprises a base, a riser column, a flexible joint between the base and the riser column, and means for providing a loose coupling between the top of the riser column and a vessel, rig or platform on the surface above the location of the riser. The riser column comprises an upper column section which includes at least one buoyancy chamber, and a lower, relatively slender column section. The riser includes, or is adapted to support, at least one conduit for the conveyance of a fluid (e.g. oil or gas) or a control line. The buoyancy provided by the upper section of the riser column is preferably variable, and this facilitates the connection and use of the riser. The riser may be used for drilling operations or for production operations. By employing a riser in accordance with the invention, it is not necessary to use large riser tensions in order to maintain the position and structural integrity of the riser in deep water and rough weather.

Source: USPTO / EPO open patent data. Objective bibliographic and citation counts.