Investigations on the Mechanical Behavior of an Innovative Subsurface Tension Leg Platform in Ultra-Deep Water (Part I); [超深水环境下新概念张力系泊式水中生产平台力学特性研究(第一部分)]

This paper focuses on an innovative technology of the Subsurface Tension Leg Platform (STLP), which is considered as a competitive alternative system to support lower-rated well completion equipment and rigid risers for large ultra-deep water oil field development. STLP is located below Mean Water Level (M.W.L) to minimize direct wave loading and mitigate the effect of strong surface currents. This paper investigates in detail the mechanical behavior of the STLP at a depth of 3 000 meters. Part I of this topic here addresses the mechanical behavior of the rigid riser. Firstly, the design philosophy of STLP is introduced. Then, the mathematical models and numerical modeling approach are presented. After that, the related design process and theory are presented. On this basis, the calculation results of rigid riser's strength, buckling as well as fatigue performance are presented and discussed to ensure the technical feasibility of the STLP. Finally, conclusions and discussions are made for the studied concept. The obtained conclusions also have wide ranging applicability in reference to the engineering design and design analysis aspects of deepwater free standing hybrid riser system. © 2018, Editorial Board of Journal of Ship Mechanics. All right reserved.