Forced refreezing method for the formation of high strength ice structures
US4634315A · kind A · utility
Assignee
Inventors
Key dates
| Filing date | Aug 22, 1985 |
| Grant date | Jan 6, 1987 |
| Priority date | — |
| Expiry date | Aug 22, 2005 |
Classification
- Technology area (CPC E)Fixed Constructions
- CPC primaryE02B17/028
- WIPO fieldCivil engineering
- WIPO sectorOther fields
Abstract
A method for accelerating construction of a load bearing ice island, formed by either sea water spraying or flooding techniques, of higher quality or in a shorter time or both than would otherwise be possible. The method involves forced refreezing of spray ice by application of a vertical stream of cold ambient air, as produced by a fan or other devices described, directly downward on the ice surface or by application of the downwardly directed air stream to an impounded mass of sea water. The specific application for the process is construction of improved load bearing structures as used in Arctic regions in support of offshore hydrocarbon exploration and production activities.
Source: USPTO / EPO open patent data. Objective bibliographic and citation counts.