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Floatover
Hardware:
Floatover
hardware is a generic term for the systems used in combination
to align and transfer a topsides:
These mechanical
systems are a detailed specialty that requires in depth discussion.
However, as a primer some initial information is provided on each
component. |
Hardware
Description:
Offshore
Kinematics and Dockwise provide services to cover the full range
of Floatover projects:
- Leg
Mating Units: LMU's are almost universally an
essential ingredient of any floatover hardware system. The LMU's
primary function is to compensate for relative motions during
the load transfer. However, it also provides for initialy docking,
may mitigate lateral loading through a load ring, and damps
relative motion between structures.
- Deck
Support Units: DSU's perform a variety of functions.
Primarily, they mitigate impact loading during separation, but
may also gimbal to allow relative roll between structure or
allow lateral sliding to relieve lateral loading into the substructure.
- Lowering
System:
A final lowering system is typically used to account for tolerances
on LMU deflection and prevent steel-to-steel impacts between
weld surfaces. However, with advances by OKI in minimizing tolerances
and understanding system damping, steel-to-steel impact is allowed
for many installations. Alternately, OKI has a proprietary melting
plastic alternative to high-maintenance sand lowering systems.
- Fendering:
Depending up seastates and gap between vessel and substructure,
the fendering may be as simple as rub strip or wood fenders
or as robust as dock cell fenders.
- Motion
Suppression: OKI is targeting motion suppression
as the future of floatover, as opposed to pure motion compensation
by LMU's. This will permit even greater application of floatover
and year round installation in many parts of the world. more...
For more
information, please contact an Offshore Kinematics representative.
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