Composite Risers and Tethers: The Future for Deep Water TLPs

Abstract

The present paper describes the extension of well proven TLP technology to applications in ultra deep waters. It is concluded that the careful optimisation of the TLP hull and topside as well as the use of composite risers and tethers lead to economical and technically feasible TLP solutions at water depths as large as 3000 m.The paper addresses the following subjects: − TLP technology and hydrodynamic optimisation − Composite risers and tethers impact on overall TLP design − Composite riser and tether design and fabrication − Status on the composite tether and riser development program which is ongoing through the Conoco/Kvaerner Composite Alliance − Installation of composite tethers − A case study including cost estimates