Inventors:
Mark A. Childers - Spring TX
David Rowan - Houston TX
Alan Quintero - Cypress TX
Assignee:
Atwood Oceanics, Inc. - Houston TX
International Classification:
E02D 1100
E02D 1300
E02D 900
Abstract:
A bottom-founded offshore structure in relatively shallow waters is protected against sliding. It uses at least one pile and a suction pump inside the pile. The pile has a length-to-diameter ratio such as to achieve sufficient pile imbedment with the selected suction pump. A dedicated pile lowering and lifting device lowers and lifts the pile as needed. Guides allow the pile's vertical motion and limit its rotational motion during imbedment and extraction. A stop device limits the vertical motion of the pile's top rim during pile extraction. The pile is reusable, light weight, easy to install and to extract, self-contained, and economical in relationship to its high holding power when imbedded.