EXPERIMENTAL VALIDATION OF A LARGE-DIAMETER TETHER CONNECTOR

A comprehensive experimental programme to validate the design of a new 1220 mm (48 in.) OD threaded tether connector has been completed. Structural and functional tests were performed and prototype connectors manufactured. The connector design is to be used in the Snorre TLP to be installed offshore Norway. Results from 21 fatigue tests (1/6- and 1/3-scale models) show that the in-air endurance of the connector under pulsating tension is significantly longer than that allowed by the B curve of the UK Department of Energy Guidance Notes. Results concerning the effect of seawater, bending loads, scale and machining tolerances on the fatigue life are also presented. Two 1/3 scale static pull tests demonstrated that the connector can sustain at least 2.4 times the yield load of the nominal pipe. Full-scale makeup and pressure tests proved that the new connector assembles easily and seals properly. Finally, no significant machining or dimensional-control problems were identified during the production of two full-size prototype connectors. See also Abstract No. 89051115.

• Supplemental Notes:
  • "OTC '89", 21st Annual Offshore Technology Conference held Houston May 1-4 1989, Vol. 1, p.555 [11 pp., 4 ref., 1 tab., 4 fig., 7 phot.]
• Authors:
  • Buitrago, J
  • Gunderson, R H
• Conference:
  • "OTC '89", 21st Annual Offshore Technology Conference
  • Location: Houston Texas, United States
  • Date: 1989-5-1 to 1989-5-4
• Publication Date: 1989

Language

• English

Subject/Index Terms

• TRT Terms: Forecasting; Performance
• Old TRIS Terms: Connectors; Mooring systems; Tension leg platforms
• Subject Areas: Marine Transportation; Planning and Forecasting;

Filing Info

• Accession Number: 00695586
• Record Type: Publication
• Source Agency: British Maritime Technology
• Files: TRIS
• Created Date: Aug 14 1995 12:00AM