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EP0107999B1 - Simplified standard device for anchoring and loading or unloading tankers starting from an under water conduit for fluid supply or removal, and method of setting up the under water conduit and the simplified anchoring device - Google Patents

Simplified standard device for anchoring and loading or unloading tankers starting from an under water conduit for fluid supply or removal, and method of setting up the under water conduit and the simplified anchoring device Download PDF

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Publication number
EP0107999B1
EP0107999B1 EP83402015A EP83402015A EP0107999B1 EP 0107999 B1 EP0107999 B1 EP 0107999B1 EP 83402015 A EP83402015 A EP 83402015A EP 83402015 A EP83402015 A EP 83402015A EP 0107999 B1 EP0107999 B1 EP 0107999B1
Authority
EP
European Patent Office
Prior art keywords
end module
pipeline
hose
flexible hose
module
Prior art date
Legal status (The legal status is an assumption and is not a legal conclusion. Google has not performed a legal analysis and makes no representation as to the accuracy of the status listed.)
Expired
Application number
EP83402015A
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German (de)
French (fr)
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EP0107999A1 (en
Inventor
Michel Jean Eugène Pagezy
Current Assignee (The listed assignees may be inaccurate. Google has not performed a legal analysis and makes no representation or warranty as to the accuracy of the list.)
TRAMCO SA
Loire Rene Marie Alexis
Original Assignee
TRAMCO SA
Loire Rene Marie Alexis
Priority date (The priority date is an assumption and is not a legal conclusion. Google has not performed a legal analysis and makes no representation as to the accuracy of the date listed.)
Filing date
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Application filed by TRAMCO SA, Loire Rene Marie Alexis filed Critical TRAMCO SA
Publication of EP0107999A1 publication Critical patent/EP0107999A1/en
Application granted granted Critical
Publication of EP0107999B1 publication Critical patent/EP0107999B1/en
Expired legal-status Critical Current

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    • B—PERFORMING OPERATIONS; TRANSPORTING
    • B63—SHIPS OR OTHER WATERBORNE VESSELS; RELATED EQUIPMENT
    • B63B—SHIPS OR OTHER WATERBORNE VESSELS; EQUIPMENT FOR SHIPPING 
    • B63B22/00—Buoys
    • B63B22/02—Buoys specially adapted for mooring a vessel
    • B63B22/021—Buoys specially adapted for mooring a vessel and for transferring fluids, e.g. liquids

Definitions

  • the present invention essentially relates to a single simplified device for mooring and loading or unloading tankers from an underwater fluid supply or evacuation pipe according to the preamble of claim 1 as well as a method of installing the underwater pipe and the simplified mooring device according to the preamble of claim 16.
  • a device for mooring on multiple buoys is known, according to which the ship is in an approximately fixed position on six anchors.
  • One of its median manifolds is connected to the submarine supply or evacuation pipe by a flexible tube, resting on the bottom when not in use, and fished from the vessel at the start of each loading or unloading operation.
  • this device has the major drawback of only applying to sites where, once moored, the ship is permanently in the bed of the prevailing wind, the current and the strongest swell. If the direction of these elements varied, it could be subjected to transverse forces exceeding the capacity of its anchors.
  • the buoy is, on the other hand, connected to the end of the underwater pipe by one or more hoses also underwater as well as to a Pipe End Module, generally provided with remote-controlled valves from the surface.
  • Permanent mooring of the buoy is carried out by means of four to eight anchored chains, each of which must be able to withstand the full pull of the vessel.
  • the device comprises relatively complicated mechanical elements subject to wear and fatigue, such as the single- or multi-pass rotary joint and the rotating head for mooring the ship, which constitutes a major drawback.
  • the rotary joint connected to the vessel by a flexible pipe partially floating on the surface is located, not on the buoy, but on the base (see FIG. 10 of FR-A-2 376 022; and FIG. 7, 8, 19 of FR-A-2 155 190).
  • This rotary joint is therefore submarine, which constitutes a major defect in these devices. It should be noted that in FR-A-2155190 a plurality of underwater rotating joints is provided (see FIG. 8).
  • Another major drawback of this known buoy device consists in the fact that a collision of the ship with the buoy, whether due to a wrong maneuver or a reverse current can, not only damage the body of the buoy but also cause the breaking of the anchor chains, the submarine hoses or even cause the displacement of the Pipe End Module when it is not firmly anchored.
  • this comprises a fixed mooring tower which however has the disadvantage of being relatively expensive, this price increasing with the depth of the seabed and these towers must in any case also be provided appropriate defenses against drifting vessels.
  • the present invention therefore aims to provide a simple solution for the mooring and loading or unloading of tankers in order to lower the cost of supplies, reduce the cost of their installation, eliminate any underwater rotating joint. fast wear, also eliminate the anchor chains, whose durability at sea is unpredictable and always limited; and above all completely eliminate the risk of ships colliding with the mooring-loading point.
  • This solution consists, according to the present invention, in a single simplified device for mooring loading and unloading of tankers of the type comprising an underwater supply or evacuation fluid line to which is connected at least one flexible tube via a Pipe End Module resting on the seabed, said flexible tube having a first end and a second free end, the free end of said flexible tube being provided connectable to loading or unloading ducts or manifolds provided on said vessel, said Steering End Module comprising means for mooring the tanker and being provided with a mass sufficient to support the traction of the vessel, characterized in that the Pipe End Module comprises an orifice communicating with the underwater pipe, to which orifice is connected said first end of said flexible tube which is a flexible tube resistant to torsional forces; a Flexible End Module, comprising at least one rotating joint, is also provided, said Flexible End Module being at least temporarily connected with said loading or unloading conduits or manifolds, said free end of the flexible tube is at least temporarily connected to a part of said rotating joint so as to put said
  • the Hose End Module is fixed to the ship, preferably at its bow, the flexible tube comprising at its free end a simple shutter and the Hose End Module comprising a quick coupler associated with its rotating joint.
  • the Hose End Module is reduced to a rotating joint.
  • the Pipe End Module essentially consists of a closed hollow structure comprising internal watertight transverse partitions defining independent ballastable compartments.
  • the pipe end module can have substantially the shape of an "L” or a "T".
  • the Pipe End Module can comprise a rear part fixed to the underwater pipe and comprising a orifice for communication with the underwater pipe and for connection with the flexible tube, and a front part articulated to the rear part to be pivotable relative to said rear part, either in a vertical plane passing through the axis of the underwater pipe, or in a vertical plane perpendicular to the axis of the underwater pipe , or both.
  • the present invention also relates to a method of installing the underwater pipe and the aforementioned simplified mooring device according to the invention, characterized in that the Pipe End Module is mounted on the ground. '' non-ballasted state of at least some of the aforementioned compartments, on the underwater pipe, the Driving End Module thus having its raised front part underwater, the whole underwater pipe-Module d is hauled '' End of Driving by the rear part of the End of Driving Module comprising an at least temporary hauling means, and arrived on the site ballast quickly or instantly the non-ballasted compartments of the End of Driving Module to cause an anchoring automatic end-of-pipe module, favored by the pivoting of the end-of-pipe module caused by ballasting, still preferably thanks to the presence of teeth or anchoring spades.
  • the Pipe End Module is also equipped on the ground with its flexible tube and the aforementioned Flexible End Module.
  • a first embodiment of a device according to the single simplified invention for mooring and loading or unloading of a tanker is of the type comprising an underwater pipe 1 of supply or discharge of fluid to which is connected at least one flexible tube 2 resistant to torsional forces by means of a Pipe End Module 4 resting on the seabed 5, comprising an orifice 6 for connection to the Flexible Tube 2; the free end 8 of the flexible tube 2 being provided connectable to conduits or manifoidsIO, 12 for loading or unloading provided on the tanker 14.
  • this device is characterized in that the Pipe End Module 4 comprises means 16 for mooring the tanker 14 and the Pipe End Module 4 is provided with a sufficient pass for supporting the traction of the ship 14.
  • the flexible tube 2 is connected at least temporarily to the ducts or manifolds 10, 12 for loading or unloading provided on the ship 14 by means of an End Module of Flexible 18 comprising at least one rotary joint 20 put into rotation during pivoting or drifts of the ship 14 under the effect of external elements, such as prevailing wind, current and swell, thanks to the quasi-deformation in torsion of the flexible tube 2.
  • the flexible tube 2 is partially submarine and comprises in its submerged part floats 22 designed to give it an apparent weight almost zero in water, while for its emerged part the flexible tube 2 comprises floats 24 certainly positive buoyancy.
  • This flexible tube 2 must naturally be of length and have sufficient bending properties to allow deformation in harmonious curves and of radius compatible with the torsional stiffness of the flexible or flexible tube 2 which is therefore generally made of reinforced rubber. This deformation without wrinkling or crushing is further facilitated by the state close to weightlessness in which the submerged part of the hose 2 is located.
  • the Flexible End Module 18 is shown moored laterally to the ship 14 using hawsers 26, 28 and therefore the End Module of Flexible 18 includes means 30, 32 for mooring hawsers 26, 28, such as rings.
  • the hose end module 18 has the rotary joint 20 which is incorporated in its mass.
  • the free end 8 of the flexible tube 2 is connected to a part of the rotary joint 20 while the flexible end module 18 is connected to the other part of the rotary joint 20 or forms an integral part of this other part, that is to say that in fact the flexible tube 2 is rotatably mounted relative to the hose end module 18.
  • the hose end module 18 is essentially constituted by a hollow structure which can be metallic and closed at its free end 18a opposite the side where the rotary joint 20 is located.
  • the hose end module 18 can include compartments forming integrated floats to ensure positive buoyancy.
  • the hose end module can serve as a manifold and be equipped with one or more shut-off valves 34, 36 from which a flexible tributary tube associated 38 , 40 which generally has a smaller diameter than the main flexible tube 2 and individually leading to the conduits 10, 12 of the ship 14.
  • the hose end module 18 it is advantageous in this case for the hose end module 18 to have flexible fenders 42, 44 avoiding deterioration during contact with the ship 14.
  • the hose end module may be reduced to a rotating joint 20 which it is then possible to lift out water to connect it directly to one of the pipes 10, 12 of the ship 14.
  • connection orifice 6 of the pipe end module 4 with the flexible tube 2 is not necessarily located in the extension of the subsea pipe 1 and can be located at the rear of the module pipe end 4 being located in a vertical plane, as shown at 50, and then the flexible tube 2 has the position indicated in phantom lines 2 '.
  • connection orifice 6 of the pipe end module 4 with the flexible tube 2 is not necessarily located in the extension of the subsea pipe 1 and can be located at the rear of the module pipe end 4 being located in a vertical plane, as shown at 50, and then the flexible tube 2 has the position indicated in phantom lines 2 '.
  • a hawser 52 has one of its ends permanently fixed to the mooring means 16 and is provided so as to have its free positive flotation end which can end in a marking float facilitating fishing of the hawser 52 as for the hose end module 18.
  • the pipe end module 4 can also serve as a manifold and include one or more valves such as 54.
  • the Flexible End Module 18 can be in an advantageous embodiment fixed on the vessel 14 and preferably at its bow, as shown in Figures 3 and 4.
  • the flexible tube 2 comprises at its free end a simple shutter and the Flexible End Module 18 includes a quick coupler associated with its rotary joint 20.
  • the hawser 52 and the flexible tube 2 both terminate at the bow of the ship 14 at neighboring points but with the Flexible End Module 18 slightly away from the 'axis XX of the ship 14 which is necessarily reserved for the fixing of the hawser 52.
  • This arrangement is particularly advantageous in the case of rough seas, on an underwater oil field served by ships which would be specially affected.
  • the flexible tube is advantageously shorter than in the more frequent case of a connection to the standard median manifold of the ship, as shown in FIGS. 1 and 2.
  • hawsers 52 which are generally made of nylon or polypropylene, are subject to fatigue caused by variations in tension and end up breaking if they are not replaced in time.
  • a hawser 52 which leads directly to the End of Driving Module 4 requires to be connected to the mooring means 16 or to be disconnected from it, by plunger.
  • This drawback can be eliminated by modifying the Pipe End Module as shown in FIGS. 5 to 7, so that it comprises a rod 60 articulated at 62 at its base on the body 63 of the Pipe End Module 4 resting on the seabed.
  • This rod 60 is advantageously provided with a float 65 so as to have its free end, when a ship is not moored to the End of Driving Module 4 flush with or exceeding the surface of the water so as to be easily locatable and accessible, said free end comprising the aforementioned mooring means 16 of the hawser 52 which is advantageously provided floating and with a locating buoy to facilitate fishing.
  • FIG. 6 an embodiment of the articulation 62 between the rod 60 and the Pipe End Module 4 is shown. This articulation is here produced by two interlaced rings 66, 68.
  • a preferred embodiment is that shown in FIG. 7 according to which the rod 60 is articulated to the Flexible End Module 4 by an articulation forming a mechanical joint with the universal joint which is advantageous because of low clearance.
  • FIG. 8 to 11 there is shown one of the currently preferred embodiments of the Driving End Module according to the invention which here has substantially the shape of a "T with preferably the leg of the" T located in the extension of the underwater pipe 1.
  • the Pipe End module either in a "T" shape or not, consists essentially of a closed hollow structure comprising transverse partitions such as 70, 71, 72 internal watertightings defining independent compartments such as 73, 74, 75, 76 ballastable.
  • the Pipe End Module 4 comprises a rear part 80 fixed to the underwater pipe 1 and comprising an orifice 82 for communication with the underwater pipe 1 and for connection with the flexible tube 2 and a second front part 84 articulated by an articulation 86 to the rear part 80 to be pivotable relative to the rear part 80 either in a vertical plane passing through the axis of the underwater pipe 1, or in a vertical plane perpendicular to the axis of the underwater pipe 1, or both.
  • this articulation is formed by a shaft 88 which can be seen clearly in FIG. 9 perpendicular to the axis of the underwater pipe 1 and crossing the rear part 80 on the ends of which is fixed a fork 90 secured to the leg 91 of the "T".
  • This arrangement allows pivoting in a vertical plane passing through the axis of the underwater pipe 1, of the front part 84 relative to the rear part 80 of the Pipe End Module 4.
  • the horizontal bar 92 of the "T" comprising, on either side, teeth or spades 94 for anchoring the Pipe End Module 4 to the seabed, said teeth or spades 94, are preferably constituted by flat panels or tubes open at their lower end.
  • Pipe End Module is the “L” shape shown in FIGS. 12 to 15.
  • the “L” Pipe End Module also includes compartments 100, 101, 102, 103 ballastable that is ballasted quickly or instantaneously on the site, as shown in FIG. 15 and in this case the bar 104 of the "L forming the End of Driving Module 4 has at its free end teeth 105 or spades as in the case of the T-End Driving Module of Figures 8 to 11 to ensure dynamic self-anchoring of the Driving End Module in accordance with the method of the present invention.
  • the Driving End Module comprises hauling means 106 such as a ring in the extension of the bar of the "L" coaxial with the underwater pipe 1.
  • the branch 104 of the “L” during the ballasting of the non-ballasted compartments located in the branch 104 causes pivoting around the pipe 1.
  • the flexible tube is preferably connected to a connection orifice 112 situated at the rear of the Pipe End Module in a vertical plane as can be seen in FIG. 12.
  • the present invention therefore makes it possible to obtain a dynamic self-anchoring in a particularly simple manner while facilitating the operation of installing the underwater pipe 1 and the simplified mooring device according to the invention.
  • the End Pipe Module can also be provided on land with all the accessories necessary to make the unique complete device according to the invention for mooring and loading or unloading of fluid.
  • Figures 16 and 17 show this preferred feature of the process for implementation.
  • FIG. 16 shows the pulling cable 118 connected to a winch 120 of a draft barge 122, an auxiliary winch 124 being provided for pulling an auxiliary cable 126 for drawing the hose end module 18.
  • Figure 17 shows the plan view of this assembly.
  • the floating hawser 52 can be provided with an hawser touline 130 with floating marker 132 and likewise the floating hose end module 18 can be provided with a hawser 134 also comprising floating markers 136 facilitating fishing for example by a grapple 138 from the tanker 14 or tanker.
  • the flexible pipes and the hawsers tend to s '' wrap around the buoy due to changes in the direction of the current or wind, which causes them damage by friction and requires the presence of a service speedboat at the terminal, in order to untangle these lines before use. This often requires in known devices to anchor them in a fixed direction by means of dead bodies that the service speedboat must go up to the surface when a ship presents itself and then the speedboat directs the hawser and the floating pipe in the direction of the ship .
  • the device according to the invention has the considerable advantage of not using an underwater rotating joint which is inaccessible from the surface for monitoring and maintenance and / or directly or indirectly subjected to mooring pulls.
  • the flexible pipe goes directly and quite naturally from the underwater pipe 1 to the ship without having to pass through a buoy.
  • the single simplified device for mooring and loading or unloading of fluid according to the invention makes it possible to significantly reduce the installation cost and its cost increases significantly less with the depth of the water than in the case of anterior buoy devices.
  • the pipe end module 4 can have other shapes and in particular a "1" shape.

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  • Chemical & Material Sciences (AREA)
  • Engineering & Computer Science (AREA)
  • Combustion & Propulsion (AREA)
  • Mechanical Engineering (AREA)
  • Ocean & Marine Engineering (AREA)
  • Laying Of Electric Cables Or Lines Outside (AREA)
  • Forklifts And Lifting Vehicles (AREA)
  • Ship Loading And Unloading (AREA)

Description

La présente invention concerne essentiellement un dispositif simplifié unique d'amarrage et de chargement ou de déchargement de navires- citernes à partir d'une conduite sous-marine d'alimentation ou d'évacuation en fluide selon le préambule de la revendication 1 ainsi qu'un procédé de mise en place de la conduite sous-marine et du dispositif simplifié d'amarrage selon le préambule de la revendication 16.The present invention essentially relates to a single simplified device for mooring and loading or unloading tankers from an underwater fluid supply or evacuation pipe according to the preamble of claim 1 as well as a method of installing the underwater pipe and the simplified mooring device according to the preamble of claim 16.

Jusqu'à présent, on connaît divers systèmes d'amarrage et de chargement ou de déchargement non accostables (voir la revue Offshore Sept 1977, p. 88-98).Until now, various mooring and loading or unloading systems are known which cannot be accosted (see the journal Offshore Sept 1977, p. 88-98).

Par exemple, on connaît un dispositif d'amarrage sur bouées multiples selon lequel le navire est en position à peu près fixe sur six ancres. L'un de ses manifolds médians est raccordé à la conduite sous-marine d'alimentation, ou d'évacuation, par un tube flexible, reposant sur le fond lorsqu'il n'est pas utilisé, et pêché du navire au début de chaque opération de chargement ou de déchargement.For example, a device for mooring on multiple buoys is known, according to which the ship is in an approximately fixed position on six anchors. One of its median manifolds is connected to the submarine supply or evacuation pipe by a flexible tube, resting on the bottom when not in use, and fished from the vessel at the start of each loading or unloading operation.

Ce dispositif présente cependant l'inconvénient majeur de ne s'appliquer qu'à des sites où une fois amarré, le navire se trouve en permanence dans le lit du vent dominant, du courant et de la plus forte houle. Si la direction de ces éléments variait, il pourrait se trouver soumis à des efforts traversiers excédant la capacité de ses ancrages.However, this device has the major drawback of only applying to sites where, once moored, the ship is permanently in the bed of the prevailing wind, the current and the strongest swell. If the direction of these elements varied, it could be subjected to transverse forces exceeding the capacity of its anchors.

On connaît par ailleurs, un autre dispositif d'amarrage sur bouée unique multi-ancrages. Dans ce cas, le navire pivote spontanément autour de la bouée pour se mettre dans le lit des éléments et réduire ainsi leur action au minimum.We also know of another mooring device on a single multi-anchor buoy. In this case, the vessel spontaneously pivots around the buoy to get into the bed of the elements and thus reduce their action to a minimum.

Il oriente simultanément un joint tournant situé au sommet de la bouée et qui est raccordé à une conduite flexible flottante, ou plusieurs, venant aboutir à l'un des manifolds.It simultaneously directs a rotary joint located at the top of the buoy and which is connected to a flexible floating pipe, or more, coming to one of the manifolds.

La bouée est, d'autre part, raccordée à l'extrémité de la conduite sous-marine par un ou plusieurs flexibles également sous-marins ainsi qu'à un Module d'Extrémité de Conduite, généralement muni de vannes télécommandées de la surface.The buoy is, on the other hand, connected to the end of the underwater pipe by one or more hoses also underwater as well as to a Pipe End Module, generally provided with remote-controlled valves from the surface.

L'amarrage permanent de la bouée s'effectue au moyen de quatre à huit chaînes ancrées, dont chacune doit pouvoir résister à la pleine traction du navire.Permanent mooring of the buoy is carried out by means of four to eight anchored chains, each of which must be able to withstand the full pull of the vessel.

Le dispositif comporte des éléments mécaniques relativement compliqués et sujets à usure et fatigue, tels le joint tournant mono- ou multi-passages et la tête tournante d'amarrage du navire, ce qui en constitue un inconvénient majeur.The device comprises relatively complicated mechanical elements subject to wear and fatigue, such as the single- or multi-pass rotary joint and the rotating head for mooring the ship, which constitutes a major drawback.

D'autre part, aux conduites flottantes en surface, s'ajoutent des flexibles sous-marins suspendus à la bouée, qui se trouvent torturés par les mouvements de celle-ci dans la houle et soumettent le Module d'Extrémité de Conduite à des tractions parfois importantes et du même ordre de grandeur que celles exercées par l'amarre du navire frappée sur la bouée.On the other hand, to the floating pipes on the surface, there are submarine hoses suspended from the buoy, which are tortured by the movements of the latter in the swell and subject the End of the Driving Module to pulls sometimes important and of the same order of magnitude as those exerted by the mooring of the ship struck on the buoy.

On connaît encore d'autres dispositifs d'amarrage sur bouée unique non ancrée qui comprend une seule chaîne verticale et tendue qui assure l'ancrage multidirectionnel de la bouée à une embase gravitaire, ou fondée sur pieux. Les documents FR-A-2 376 022 et FR-A-2155190 décrivent un ancrage direct sur l'embase.There are also known other mooring devices on a single non-anchored buoy which comprises a single vertical and taut chain which ensures the multidirectional anchoring of the buoy to a gravity base, or based on piles. The documents FR-A-2 376 022 and FR-A-2155190 describe a direct anchoring on the base.

Dans ce cas, le joint tournant relié au navire par une conduite souple partiellement flottante en surface est situé, non sur la bouée, mais sur l'embase (voir figure 10 de FR-A-2 376 022 ; et figure 7, 8, 19 de FR-A-2 155 190). Ce joint tournant est donc sous-marin ce qui constitue un défaut majeur de ces dispositifs. Il est à noter que dans FR-A-2155190 on prévoit une pluralité de joints tournants sous-marins (voir figure 8).In this case, the rotary joint connected to the vessel by a flexible pipe partially floating on the surface is located, not on the buoy, but on the base (see FIG. 10 of FR-A-2 376 022; and FIG. 7, 8, 19 of FR-A-2 155 190). This rotary joint is therefore submarine, which constitutes a major defect in these devices. It should be noted that in FR-A-2155190 a plurality of underwater rotating joints is provided (see FIG. 8).

En effet, de tels joints tournants à roulement n'étant pas réellement conçus et construits pour fonctionner sous l'eau, n'y ont qu'une vie limitée, et leur rupture, dont le moment ne peut être prévu, se traduira par une pollution des abords, sans parler d'une mise hors service du terminal qui pourra être longue parce qu'il faudra attendre le beau temps pour effectuer la réparation.Indeed, such rotating bearing joints are not really designed and constructed to operate underwater, have only a limited life, and their rupture, the moment of which cannot be foreseen, will result in a pollution of the surroundings, not to mention a terminal decommissioning which may be long because it will be necessary to wait for good weather to carry out the repair.

Un autre inconvénient majeur de ce dispositif connu à bouée consiste dans le fait qu'une collision du navire avec la bouée, qu'elle soit due à une fausse manoeuvre ou à une renverse du courant peut, non seulement endommager le corps de la bouée mais aussi entraîner la rupture des chaînes d'ancrage, des flexibles sous-marins voire, causer le déplacement du Module d'Extrémité de Conduite lorsque celui-ci n'est pas solidement ancré.Another major drawback of this known buoy device consists in the fact that a collision of the ship with the buoy, whether due to a wrong maneuver or a reverse current can, not only damage the body of the buoy but also cause the breaking of the anchor chains, the submarine hoses or even cause the displacement of the Pipe End Module when it is not firmly anchored.

Enfin, selon encore un autre dispositif connu, celui-ci comprend une tour d'amarrage fixe qui présente cependant l'inconvénient d'être relativement coûteuse, ce prix augmentant avec la profondeur du fond marin et ces tours de toute façon doivent également être munies de défenses appropriées contre les navires dérivants.Finally, according to yet another known device, this comprises a fixed mooring tower which however has the disadvantage of being relatively expensive, this price increasing with the depth of the seabed and these towers must in any case also be provided appropriate defenses against drifting vessels.

La présente invention a donc pour but de fournir une solution simple pour l'amarrage et le chargement ou le déchargement de navires-citernes en vue d'abaisser le coût des fournitures, réduire le coût de leur installation, éliminer tout joint tournant sous-marin à usure rapide, éliminer aussi les chaînes d'ancrage, dont la longévité à la mer est imprévisible et toujours limitée ; et avant tout éliminer totalement les risques de collisions de navires avec le point d'amarrage-chargement.The present invention therefore aims to provide a simple solution for the mooring and loading or unloading of tankers in order to lower the cost of supplies, reduce the cost of their installation, eliminate any underwater rotating joint. fast wear, also eliminate the anchor chains, whose durability at sea is unpredictable and always limited; and above all completely eliminate the risk of ships colliding with the mooring-loading point.

Cette solution consiste, selon la présente invention, en un dispositif simplifié unique d'amarrage de chargement et de déchargement de navires- citernes du type comprenant une conduite sous-marine d'alimentation ou d'évacuation de fluide à laquelle est raccordé au moins un tube flexible par l'intermédiaire d'un Module d'Extrémité de Conduite reposant sur le fond marin, ledit tube flexible comportant une première extrémité et une deuxième extrémité libre, l'extrémité libre dudit tube flexible étant prévue connectable à des conduits ou manifolds de chargement ou de déchargement prévus sur ledit navire, ledit Module d'Extrémité de Conduite comprenant des moyens pour l'amarrage du navire-citerne et étant prévu d'une masse suffisante pour soutenir la traction du navire, caractérisé en ce que le Module d'Extrémité de Conduite comporte un orifice communiquant avec la conduite sous-marine, sur lequel orifice est raccordé ladite première extrémité dudit tube flexible qui est un tube flexible résistant aux efforts de torsion ; un Module d'Extrémité de Flexible, comportant au moins un joint tournant, est également prévu, ledit Module d'Extrémité de Flexible étant au moins temporairement connecté avec lesdits conduits ou manifolds de chargement ou déchargement, ladite extrémité libre du tube flexible est au moins temporairement connectée à une partie dudit joint tournant de manière à mettre en communication ledit tube flexible au moins temporairement avec les conduits de chargement ou de déchargement prévus sur le navire, de sorte que les pivotements ou dérives du navire sous l'effet des éléments extérieurs tels que vent dominant, courant et houle aboutissent à la mise en rotation du joint tournant à cause de la fixation de la première extrémité du tube flexible sur le Module d'Extrémité de Conduite reposant sur le fond marin, ainsi que de la résistance à la torsion du tube flexible.This solution consists, according to the present invention, in a single simplified device for mooring loading and unloading of tankers of the type comprising an underwater supply or evacuation fluid line to which is connected at least one flexible tube via a Pipe End Module resting on the seabed, said flexible tube having a first end and a second free end, the free end of said flexible tube being provided connectable to loading or unloading ducts or manifolds provided on said vessel, said Steering End Module comprising means for mooring the tanker and being provided with a mass sufficient to support the traction of the vessel, characterized in that the Pipe End Module comprises an orifice communicating with the underwater pipe, to which orifice is connected said first end of said flexible tube which is a flexible tube resistant to torsional forces; a Flexible End Module, comprising at least one rotating joint, is also provided, said Flexible End Module being at least temporarily connected with said loading or unloading conduits or manifolds, said free end of the flexible tube is at least temporarily connected to a part of said rotating joint so as to put said flexible tube into communication at least temporarily with the loading or unloading conduits provided on the ship, so that the pivotings or drifts of the ship under the effect of external elements such that prevailing wind, current and swell lead to the rotation of the rotating joint because of the fixing of the first end of the flexible tube on the Pipe End Module resting on the seabed, as well as the resistance to torsion flexible tube.

Selon un mode de réalisation particulièrement avantageux de ce dispositif, le Module d'Extrémité de Flexible est fixé sur le navire, de préférence à sa proue, le tube flexible comportant à son extrémité libre un simple obturateur et le Module d'Extrémité de Flexible comportant un coupleur rapide associé à son joint tournant.According to a particularly advantageous embodiment of this device, the Hose End Module is fixed to the ship, preferably at its bow, the flexible tube comprising at its free end a simple shutter and the Hose End Module comprising a quick coupler associated with its rotating joint.

Selon un mode de réalisation particulier, le Module d'Extrémité de Flexible est réduit à un joint tournant.According to a particular embodiment, the Hose End Module is reduced to a rotating joint.

Selon un autre mode de réalisation particulièrement avantageux, le Module d'Extrémité de Conduite est constitué essentiellement par une structure creuse fermée comportant des cloisons transversales étanches internes définissant des compartiments indépendants ballastables.According to another particularly advantageous embodiment, the Pipe End Module essentially consists of a closed hollow structure comprising internal watertight transverse partitions defining independent ballastable compartments.

Selon divers modes de réalisation actuellement préférés, le Module d'Extrémité de Conduite peut avoir sensiblement la forme d'un « L• ou d'un « T » .According to various currently preferred embodiments, the pipe end module can have substantially the shape of an "L" or a "T".

D'autre part, selon une caractéristique particulière, le Module d'Extrémité de Conduite peut comprendre une partie arrière fixée à la conduite sous-marine et comportant un orifice de communication avec la conduite sous-marine et de raccordement avec le tube flexible, et une partie avant articulée à la partie arrière pour être pivotante relativement à ladite partie arrière, soit dans un plan vertical passant par l'axe de la conduite sous-marine, soit dans un plan vertical perpendiculaire à l'axe de la conduite sous-marine, soit les deux.On the other hand, according to a particular characteristic, the Pipe End Module can comprise a rear part fixed to the underwater pipe and comprising a orifice for communication with the underwater pipe and for connection with the flexible tube, and a front part articulated to the rear part to be pivotable relative to said rear part, either in a vertical plane passing through the axis of the underwater pipe, or in a vertical plane perpendicular to the axis of the underwater pipe , or both.

Par ailleurs, la présente invention concerne également un procédé de mise en place de la conduite sous-marine et du dispositif simplifié d'amarrage précité selon l'invention caractérisé en ce qu'on monte à terre le Module d'Extrémité de Conduite à l'état non ballasté d'au moins certains des compartiments précités, sur la conduite sous-marine, le Module d'Extrémité de Conduite ayant ainsi sous l'eau sa partie avant relevée, on hale l'ensemble conduite sous-marine-Module d'Extrémité de Conduite par la partie arrière du Module d'Extrémité de Conduite comportant un moyen de halage au moins provisoire, et arrivé sur le site on ballaste rapidement ou instantanément les compartiments non-ballastés du Module d'Extrémité de Conduite pour provoquer un ancrage automatique du Module d'Extrémité de Conduite, favorisé par le pivotement du Module d'Extrémité de Conduite causé par le ballastage, encore de préférence grace à la présence de dents ou bêches d'ancrage.Furthermore, the present invention also relates to a method of installing the underwater pipe and the aforementioned simplified mooring device according to the invention, characterized in that the Pipe End Module is mounted on the ground. '' non-ballasted state of at least some of the aforementioned compartments, on the underwater pipe, the Driving End Module thus having its raised front part underwater, the whole underwater pipe-Module d is hauled '' End of Driving by the rear part of the End of Driving Module comprising an at least temporary hauling means, and arrived on the site ballast quickly or instantly the non-ballasted compartments of the End of Driving Module to cause an anchoring automatic end-of-pipe module, favored by the pivoting of the end-of-pipe module caused by ballasting, still preferably thanks to the presence of teeth or anchoring spades.

D'autre part, selon une caractéristique avantageuse de ce procédé, le Module d'Extrémité de Conduite est aussi équipé à terre avec son tube flexible et le Module d'Extrémité de Flexible précité.On the other hand, according to an advantageous characteristic of this process, the Pipe End Module is also equipped on the ground with its flexible tube and the aforementioned Flexible End Module.

D'autres buts, caractéristiques et avantages de la présente invention apparaîtront clairement à la lumière de la description explicative qui va suivre faite en références aux dessins annexés dans lesquels :

  • La figure 1 est une vue schématique d'ensemble d'un mode de réalisation actuellement préféré du dispositif simplifié unique d'ancrage et de chargement ou de déchargement de navires- citernes, selon la présente invention.
  • La figure 2 est une vue de détail agrandie du Module d'Extrémité de Flexible représenté à la figure 1.
  • La figure 3 est une vue en élévation d'un mode de réalisation particulier dans lequel le Module d'Extrémité de Flexible est fixé sur le navire.
  • La figure 4 représente une vue selon la flèche IV de la figure 3.
  • La figure 5 représente un autre mode de réalisation du dispositif selon la présente invention permettant un amarrage aisé du navire.
  • Les figures 6 et 7 représentent des variantes de réalisation dé l'articulation de la tige d'amarrage au Module d'Extrémité de Conduite.
  • La figure 8 représente une vue en plan d'un mode de réalisation particulier du dispositif d'Extrémité de Conduite selon l'invention.
  • La figure 9 représente une vue latérale du Module d'Extrémité de Conduite de la figure 8.
  • La figure 10 représente schématiquement la position du Module d'Extrémité de Conduite de la figure 8 lors de la mise en place de la conduite sous-marine.
  • La figure 11 représente la mise en place par auto-ancrage dynamique du Module d'Extrémité de Conduite des figures 8 à 10 selon le procédé de la présente invention.
  • La figure 12 représente un autre mode de réalisation du Module d'Extrémité de Conduite faisant l'objet de la présente invention, en plan.
  • La figure 13 représente une vue latérale du Module d'Extrémité de Conduite de la figure 12.
  • La figure 14 représente une vue partielle schématique de la position du Module d'Extrémité de Conduite des figures 12 et 13 lors de la mise en place de la conduite sous-marine.
  • La figure 15 représente schématiquement l'auto-ancrage du Module d'Extrémité de Conduite des figures 12 à 14 sur le site selon le procédé de la présente invention.
  • Les figures 16 et 17 représentent respectivement en élévation et en plan la disposition des divers éléments du dispositif simplifié d'amarrage selon la présente invention lors de sa mise en place avec la conduite sous-marine.
  • La figure 18 représente une vue schématique de la prise de poste d'un navire-citerne sur le site.
Other objects, characteristics and advantages of the present invention will become clear in the light of the explanatory description which follows, given with reference to the appended drawings in which:
  • Figure 1 is a schematic overview of a currently preferred embodiment of the single simplified device for anchoring and loading or unloading tankers, according to the present invention.
  • Figure 2 is an enlarged detail view of the Hose End Module shown in Figure 1.
  • Figure 3 is an elevational view of a particular embodiment in which the Hose End Module is attached to the vessel.
  • FIG. 4 represents a view according to arrow IV of FIG. 3.
  • FIG. 5 shows another embodiment of the device according to the present invention allowing easy mooring of the ship.
  • Figures 6 and 7 show alternative embodiments of the articulation of the mooring rod to the Pipe End Module.
  • FIG. 8 represents a plan view of a particular embodiment of the pipe end device according to the invention.
  • Figure 9 shows a side view of the Pipe End Module of Figure 8.
  • FIG. 10 schematically represents the position of the Pipe End Module of FIG. 8 when the underwater pipe is put in place.
  • FIG. 11 represents the positioning by dynamic self-anchoring of the Driving End Module of FIGS. 8 to 10 according to the method of the present invention.
  • FIG. 12 represents another embodiment of the End Pipe Module forming the subject of the present invention, in plan.
  • Figure 13 shows a side view of the Pipe End Module of Figure 12.
  • FIG. 14 represents a partial schematic view of the position of the Pipe End Module of FIGS. 12 and 13 during the installation of the underwater pipe.
  • FIG. 15 schematically represents the self-anchoring of the pipe end module of FIGS. 12 to 14 on the site according to the method of the present invention.
  • Figures 16 and 17 show respectively in elevation and in plan the arrangement of the various elements of the simplified mooring device according to the present invention during its installation with the underwater pipe.
  • Figure 18 shows a schematic view of the taking up of a tanker on site.

En référence aux figures 1 et 2, un premier mode de réalisation d'un dispositif selon l'invention simplifié unique d'amarrage et de chargement ou de déchargement d'un navire-citerne est du type comprenant une conduite sous-marine 1 d'alimentation ou d'évacuation de fluide à laquelle est raccordé au moins un tube flexible 2 résistant aux efforts de torsion par l'intermédiaire d'un Module d'Extrémité de Conduite 4 reposant sur le fond marin 5, comportant un orifice 6 de raccordement au Tube Flexible 2 ; l'extrémité libre 8 du tube flexible 2 étant prévue connectable à des conduits ou manifoidsIO, 12 de chargement ou de déchargement prévus sur le navire-citerne 14.Referring to Figures 1 and 2, a first embodiment of a device according to the single simplified invention for mooring and loading or unloading of a tanker is of the type comprising an underwater pipe 1 of supply or discharge of fluid to which is connected at least one flexible tube 2 resistant to torsional forces by means of a Pipe End Module 4 resting on the seabed 5, comprising an orifice 6 for connection to the Flexible Tube 2; the free end 8 of the flexible tube 2 being provided connectable to conduits or manifoidsIO, 12 for loading or unloading provided on the tanker 14.

Selon l'invention, ce dispositif est caractérisé en ce que le Module d'Extrémité de Conduite 4 comprend des moyens 16 pour l'amarrage du navire-citerne 14 et le Module d'Extrémité de Conduite 4 est prévu d'une passe suffisante pour soutenir la traction du navire 14. D'autre part, le tube flexible 2 est relié au moins temporairement aux conduits ou manifolds 10, 12 de chargement ou de déchargement prévus sur le navire 14 par l'intermédiaire d'un Module d'Extrémité de Flexible 18 comportant au moins un joint tournant 20 mis en rotation lors des pivotements ou dérives du navire 14 sous l'effet des éléments extérieurs, tels que vent dominant, courant et houle, grâce à la quasi indéformation en torsion du tube flexible 2.According to the invention, this device is characterized in that the Pipe End Module 4 comprises means 16 for mooring the tanker 14 and the Pipe End Module 4 is provided with a sufficient pass for supporting the traction of the ship 14. On the other hand, the flexible tube 2 is connected at least temporarily to the ducts or manifolds 10, 12 for loading or unloading provided on the ship 14 by means of an End Module of Flexible 18 comprising at least one rotary joint 20 put into rotation during pivoting or drifts of the ship 14 under the effect of external elements, such as prevailing wind, current and swell, thanks to the quasi-deformation in torsion of the flexible tube 2.

On notera que le tube flexible 2 est partiellement sous-marin et comprend dans sa partie immergée des flotteurs 22 prévus pour lui conférer un poids apparent à peu près nul dans l'eau, tandis que pour sa partie émergée le tube flexible 2 comprend des flotteurs 24 de flottabilité franchement positive. Ce tube flexible 2 doit naturellement être de longueur et présenter des propriétés de flexion suffisantes pour permettre une déformation en courbes harmonieuses et de rayon compatible avec la raideur en torsion du tube flexible ou souple 2 qui est donc généralement réalisé en caoutchouc armé. Cette déformation sans pli ni écrasement est facilitée par ailleurs par l'état proche de l'apesanteur dans lequel se trouve la partie immergée du flexible 2.It will be noted that the flexible tube 2 is partially submarine and comprises in its submerged part floats 22 designed to give it an apparent weight almost zero in water, while for its emerged part the flexible tube 2 comprises floats 24 frankly positive buoyancy. This flexible tube 2 must naturally be of length and have sufficient bending properties to allow deformation in harmonious curves and of radius compatible with the torsional stiffness of the flexible or flexible tube 2 which is therefore generally made of reinforced rubber. This deformation without wrinkling or crushing is further facilitated by the state close to weightlessness in which the submerged part of the hose 2 is located.

On observera que selon le mode de réalisation présenté aux figures 1 et 2, le Module d'Extrémité de Flexible 18 est représenté amarré latéralement au navire 14 à l'aide d'aussières 26, 28 et de ce fait le Module d'Extrémité de Flexible 18 comporte des moyens 30, 32 d'amarrage des aussières 26, 28, tels que des anneaux.It will be observed that according to the embodiment presented in FIGS. 1 and 2, the Flexible End Module 18 is shown moored laterally to the ship 14 using hawsers 26, 28 and therefore the End Module of Flexible 18 includes means 30, 32 for mooring hawsers 26, 28, such as rings.

On observera d'autre part, comme clairement visible à la figure 2, que le Module d'extrémité de flexible 18 a le joint tournant 20 qui est incorporé dans sa masse. Ainsi, l'extrémité libre 8 du tube flexible 2 est reliée à une partie du joint tournant 20 tandis que le module d'extrémité de flexible 18 est relié à l'autre partie du joint tournant 20 ou forme partie intégrante de cette autre partie, c'est-à-dire qu'en fait le tube flexible 2 est monté rotatif relativement au module d'extrémité de flexible 18. Dans ce mode de réalisation représenté à la figure 2, le module d'extrémité de flexible 18 est essentiellement constitué par une structure creuse qui peut être métallique et fermée à son extrémité libre 18a opposée au côté où se trouve le joint tournant 20. Le module d'extrémité de flexible 18 peut comporter des compartiments formant flotteurs intégrés pour en assurer une flottabilité positive.It will also be observed, as clearly visible in FIG. 2, that the hose end module 18 has the rotary joint 20 which is incorporated in its mass. Thus, the free end 8 of the flexible tube 2 is connected to a part of the rotary joint 20 while the flexible end module 18 is connected to the other part of the rotary joint 20 or forms an integral part of this other part, that is to say that in fact the flexible tube 2 is rotatably mounted relative to the hose end module 18. In this embodiment shown in FIG. 2, the hose end module 18 is essentially constituted by a hollow structure which can be metallic and closed at its free end 18a opposite the side where the rotary joint 20 is located. The hose end module 18 can include compartments forming integrated floats to ensure positive buoyancy.

D'autre part, selon l'exemple représenté à la figure 2, le module d'extrémité de flexible peut servir de manifold et être équipé d'une ou plusieurs vannes d'arrêt 34, 36 de laquelle part un tube flexible affluent associé 38, 40 qui a en général un diamètre plus faible que le tube flexible 2 principal et aboutissant individuellement aux conduits 10, 12 du navire 14.On the other hand, according to the example shown in Figure 2, the hose end module can serve as a manifold and be equipped with one or more shut-off valves 34, 36 from which a flexible tributary tube associated 38 , 40 which generally has a smaller diameter than the main flexible tube 2 and individually leading to the conduits 10, 12 of the ship 14.

D'autre part, il est avantageux dans ce cas que le module d'extrémité de flexible 18 comporte des défenses souples 42, 44 évitant une détérioration lors des contacts avec le navire 14.On the other hand, it is advantageous in this case for the hose end module 18 to have flexible fenders 42, 44 avoiding deterioration during contact with the ship 14.

On observera que dans certains cas simples, en particulier lorsqu'il n'est pas nécessaire de subdiviser le tube flexible 2 principal le module d'extrémité de flexible peut se trouver réduit à un joint tournant 20 qu'il est alors possible de soulever hors de l'eau pour le raccorder directement à l'une des conduites 10, 12 du navire 14.It will be observed that in certain simple cases, in particular when it is not necessary to subdivide the main flexible tube 2, the hose end module may be reduced to a rotating joint 20 which it is then possible to lift out water to connect it directly to one of the pipes 10, 12 of the ship 14.

D'autre part, lorsque plusieurs produits liquides doivent être chargés ou déchargés, il peut y avoir plus d'une conduite sous-marine 1. Et de même, on peut avoir utilisé plus d'un raccordement 6, plus d'un tube flexible 2, et, par conséquent, plus d'un joint tournant 20 ou bien un joint tournant coaxial multi-passages.On the other hand, when several liquid products have to be loaded or unloaded, there can be more than one underwater pipe 1. And likewise, we can have used more than one connection 6, more than one flexible tube 2, and therefore more than one rotary joint 20 or a multi-pass coaxial rotary joint.

D'autre part, l'orifice de raccordement 6 du module d'extrémité de conduite 4 avec le tube flexible 2 n'est pas obligatoirement situé dans le prolongement de la conduite sous-marine 1 et peut être situé à l'arrière du module d'extrémité de conduite 4 en étant situé dans un plan vertical, comme représenté en 50, et alors le tube flexible 2 a la position indiquée en traits fantômes 2'. Il peut également naturellement y avoir une combinaison de ces deux orifices avec deux flexibles séparés au départ puis devenant communs.On the other hand, the connection orifice 6 of the pipe end module 4 with the flexible tube 2 is not necessarily located in the extension of the subsea pipe 1 and can be located at the rear of the module pipe end 4 being located in a vertical plane, as shown at 50, and then the flexible tube 2 has the position indicated in phantom lines 2 '. There can also naturally be a combination of these two orifices with two flexible hoses separated at the start and then becoming common.

Afin d'éviter d'avoir à amarrer le navire 14 sur les moyens d'amarrage 16 situés sur le fond marin, une aussière 52 a une de ses extrémités en permanence fixée au moyen d'amarrage 16 et est prévue de manière à avoir son extrémité libre de flottaison positive pouvant se terminer par un flotteur de marquage facilitant le pêchage de l'aussière 52 comme pour le module d'extrémité de flexible 18.In order to avoid having to moor the ship 14 on the mooring means 16 located on the seabed, a hawser 52 has one of its ends permanently fixed to the mooring means 16 and is provided so as to have its free positive flotation end which can end in a marking float facilitating fishing of the hawser 52 as for the hose end module 18.

Naturellement, le module d'extrémité de conduite 4 peut servir aussi de manifold et comprendre une ou plusieurs vannes telles que 54.Naturally, the pipe end module 4 can also serve as a manifold and include one or more valves such as 54.

D'autre part, le Module d'Extrémité de Flexible 18 peut être dans un mode de réalisation avantageux fixé sur le navire 14 et de préférence à sa proue, comme représenté aux figures 3 et 4. Dans ce cas, le tube flexible 2 comporte à son extrémité libre un simple obturateur et le Module d'Extrémité de Flexible 18 comprend un coupleur rapide associé à son joint tournant 20.On the other hand, the Flexible End Module 18 can be in an advantageous embodiment fixed on the vessel 14 and preferably at its bow, as shown in Figures 3 and 4. In this case, the flexible tube 2 comprises at its free end a simple shutter and the Flexible End Module 18 includes a quick coupler associated with its rotary joint 20.

On observera que dans ce cas, il est préféré que l'aussière 52 et le tube flexible 2 aboutissent tous deux à la proue du navire 14 en des points voisins mais avec le Module d'Extrémité de Flexible 18 légèrement à l'écart de l'axe X-X du navire 14 qui est obligatoirement réservé à la fixation de l'aussière 52. Cette disposition est particulièrement avantageuse dans le cas d'une haute mer agitée, sur un champs pétrolier sous-marin desservi par des navires qui seraient spécialement affectés.It will be observed that in this case, it is preferred that the hawser 52 and the flexible tube 2 both terminate at the bow of the ship 14 at neighboring points but with the Flexible End Module 18 slightly away from the 'axis XX of the ship 14 which is necessarily reserved for the fixing of the hawser 52. This arrangement is particularly advantageous in the case of rough seas, on an underwater oil field served by ships which would be specially affected.

Par ces dispositions, par ailleurs, le tube flexible est avantageusement plus court que dans le cas plus fréquent d'un branchement sur le manifold médian standard du navire, comme représenté aux figures 1 et 2.By these provisions, moreover, the flexible tube is advantageously shorter than in the more frequent case of a connection to the standard median manifold of the ship, as shown in FIGS. 1 and 2.

D'autre part, les aussières 52, qui sont généralement réalisées en nylon ou en polypropylène, sont sujettes à la fatigue causée par les variations de tension et finissent par casser si elles ne sont pas remplacées à temps. Ainsi, une aussière 52 qui aboutit directement au Module d'Extrémité de Conduite 4 exige d'être connectée au moyen d'amarrage 16 ou d'en être déconnectée, par plongeur.On the other hand, the hawsers 52, which are generally made of nylon or polypropylene, are subject to fatigue caused by variations in tension and end up breaking if they are not replaced in time. Thus, a hawser 52 which leads directly to the End of Driving Module 4 requires to be connected to the mooring means 16 or to be disconnected from it, by plunger.

On peut éliminer cet inconvénient en modifiant le Module d'Extrémité de Conduite comme représenté aux figures 5 à 7, de sorte qu'il comprenne une tige 60 articulée en 62 à sa base sur le corps 63 du Module d'Extrémité de Conduite 4 reposant sur le fond marin. Cette tige 60 est avantageusement pourvue d'un flotteur 65 de manière à avoir son extrémité libre, lorsqu'un navire n'est pas amarré au Module d'Extrémité de Conduite 4 affleurant ou dépassant la surface de l'eau de manière à être facilement repérable et accessible, ladite extrémité libre comportant les moyens d'amarrage précités 16 de l'aussière 52 qui est avantageusement prévue flottante et avec une bouée de repérage pour en faciliter le pêchage.This drawback can be eliminated by modifying the Pipe End Module as shown in FIGS. 5 to 7, so that it comprises a rod 60 articulated at 62 at its base on the body 63 of the Pipe End Module 4 resting on the seabed. This rod 60 is advantageously provided with a float 65 so as to have its free end, when a ship is not moored to the End of Driving Module 4 flush with or exceeding the surface of the water so as to be easily locatable and accessible, said free end comprising the aforementioned mooring means 16 of the hawser 52 which is advantageously provided floating and with a locating buoy to facilitate fishing.

A la figure 6, on a représenté un mode de réalisation de l'articulation 62 entre la tige 60 et le Module d'Extrémité de Conduite 4. Cette articulation est ici réalisée par deux anneaux entrelacés 66, 68.In FIG. 6, an embodiment of the articulation 62 between the rod 60 and the Pipe End Module 4 is shown. This articulation is here produced by two interlaced rings 66, 68.

Un mode de réalisation préféré est celui représenté à la figure 7 selon lequel la tige 60 est articulée au Module d'Extrémité de Flexible 4 par une articulation formant joint mécanique à la cardan avantageuse car à faible jeu.A preferred embodiment is that shown in FIG. 7 according to which the rod 60 is articulated to the Flexible End Module 4 by an articulation forming a mechanical joint with the universal joint which is advantageous because of low clearance.

En référence aux figures 8 à 11, on a représenté l'un des modes de réalisation actuellement préféré du Module d'Extrémité de Conduite selon l'invention qui a ici sensiblement la forme d'un « T avec de préférence la jambe du « T située dans le prolongement de la conduite sous-marine 1.Referring to Figures 8 to 11, there is shown one of the currently preferred embodiments of the Driving End Module according to the invention which here has substantially the shape of a "T with preferably the leg of the" T located in the extension of the underwater pipe 1.

Généralement, le module d'Extrémité de Conduite, soit en « T ou non, est constitué essentiellement par une structure creuse fermée comportant des cloisons transversales telles que 70, 71, 72 étanches internes définissant des compartiments indépendants tels que 73, 74, 75, 76 ballastables.Generally, the Pipe End module, either in a "T" shape or not, consists essentially of a closed hollow structure comprising transverse partitions such as 70, 71, 72 internal watertightings defining independent compartments such as 73, 74, 75, 76 ballastable.

Selon ce mode de réalisation représenté, le Module d'Extrémité de Conduite 4 comprend une partie arrière 80 fixée à la conduite sous-marine 1 et comportant un orifice 82 de communication avec la conduite sous-marine 1 et de raccordement avec le tube flexible 2 et une deuxième partie avant 84 articulée par une articulation 86 à la partie arrière 80 pour être pivotante relativement à la partie arrière 80 soit dans un plan vertical passant par l'axe de la conduite 1 sous-marine, soit dans un plan vertical perpendiculaire à l'axe de la conduite sous-marine 1, soit les deux.According to this embodiment shown, the Pipe End Module 4 comprises a rear part 80 fixed to the underwater pipe 1 and comprising an orifice 82 for communication with the underwater pipe 1 and for connection with the flexible tube 2 and a second front part 84 articulated by an articulation 86 to the rear part 80 to be pivotable relative to the rear part 80 either in a vertical plane passing through the axis of the underwater pipe 1, or in a vertical plane perpendicular to the axis of the underwater pipe 1, or both.

Dans l'exemple représenté, on observera que cette articulation est formée par un arbre 88 que l'on voit bien à la figure 9 perpendiculaire à l'axe de la conduite sous-marine 1 et traversant la partie arrière 80 sur les extrémités duquel est fixée une fourche 90 solidaire de la jambe 91 du « T ».In the example shown, it will be observed that this articulation is formed by a shaft 88 which can be seen clearly in FIG. 9 perpendicular to the axis of the underwater pipe 1 and crossing the rear part 80 on the ends of which is fixed a fork 90 secured to the leg 91 of the "T".

Cette disposition permet un pivotement dans un plan vertical passant par l'axe de la conduite sous-marine 1, de la partie avant 84 relativement à la partie arrière 80 du Module d'Extrémité de Conduite 4.This arrangement allows pivoting in a vertical plane passing through the axis of the underwater pipe 1, of the front part 84 relative to the rear part 80 of the Pipe End Module 4.

Selon ce mode de réalisation, de manière avantageuse, on prévoit la barre horizontale 92 du « T » comportant de part et d'autre des dents ou bêches 94 d'ancrage du Module d'Extrémité de Conduite 4 sur le fond marin, lesdites dents ou bêches 94, sont de préférence constituées par des panneaux plans ou tubes ouverts à leur extrémité inférieure.According to this embodiment, advantageously, provision is made for the horizontal bar 92 of the "T" comprising, on either side, teeth or spades 94 for anchoring the Pipe End Module 4 to the seabed, said teeth or spades 94, are preferably constituted by flat panels or tubes open at their lower end.

On comprend ainsi aisément que cette structure du Module d'Extrémité de Conduite 4 permet, lorsqu'elle est non ballastée, de réaliser le procédé précité de l'invention pour la mise en place de l'ensemble conduite sous-marine 1-dispositif selon l'invention, comme cela est représenté aux figures 10 et 11.It is thus easy to understand that this structure of the Pipe End Module 4 allows, when it is not ballasted, to carry out the aforementioned process of the invention for the installation of the underwater pipe assembly 1-device according to the invention, as shown in Figures 10 and 11.

On observera que, dans ce cas, lorsque la partie avant du Module d'Extrémité de Conduite 4 est non-ballastée, celle-ci est normalement flottante et se retrouve donc relevée, comme représenté à la figure 10. On peut ainsi tirer la conduite sous-marine 1 par la présence au moins temporaire de moyens de halage 96 à la partie arrière 80 du Module d'Extrémité de Conduite 4.It will be observed that, in this case, when the front part of the Pipe End Module 4 is non-ballasted, it is normally floating and therefore finds itself raised, as shown in FIG. 10. It is thus possible to pull the pipe submarine 1 by the at least temporary presence of hauling means 96 at the rear part 80 of the Driving End Module 4.

Lorsque l'on est arrivé sur le site, il suffit de réaliser un ballastage rapide ou instantané de la partie avant en « T du Module d'Extrémité de Conduite pour obtenir un auto-ancrage dynamique du Module d'Extrémité de Conduite grâce à la présence des dents ou bêches 94 sur la barre du « T » et comme cela se conçoit très clairement à partir de la représentation de la figure 11 par la présence des flèches et de la position ancrée représentée en traits fantômes.When we arrived on the site, just perform rapid or instant ballasting of the front “T” part of the Driving End Module to obtain dynamic self-anchoring of the Driving End Module thanks to the presence of teeth or spades 94 on the “T” bar and as can be seen very clearly from the representation of FIG. 11 by the presence of the arrows and of the anchored position represented in phantom lines.

Une autre variante de réalisation du Module d'Extrémité de Conduite est la forme en « L » représentée aux figures 12 à 15.Another alternative embodiment of the Pipe End Module is the “L” shape shown in FIGS. 12 to 15.

Ce mode de réalisation permet une mise en place analogue à celle du mode de réalisation en « T des figures 8 à 11. Ainsi, le Module d'Extrémité de Conduite en « L » comporte aussi des compartiments 100, 101, 102, 103 ballastables que l'on ballaste de manière rapide ou instantanée sur le site, comme représenté à la figure 15 et dans ce cas la barre 104 du « L formant le Module d'Extrémité de Conduite 4 comporte à son extrémité libre des dents 105 ou bêches comme dans le cas du Module d'Extrémité de Conduite en « T des figures 8 à 11 pour assurer l'auto-ancrage dynamique du Module d'Extrémité de Conduite conformément au procédé de la présente invention.This embodiment allows installation similar to that of the “T” embodiment of FIGS. 8 to 11. Thus, the “L” Pipe End Module also includes compartments 100, 101, 102, 103 ballastable that is ballasted quickly or instantaneously on the site, as shown in FIG. 15 and in this case the bar 104 of the "L forming the End of Driving Module 4 has at its free end teeth 105 or spades as in the case of the T-End Driving Module of Figures 8 to 11 to ensure dynamic self-anchoring of the Driving End Module in accordance with the method of the present invention.

On observera cependant que dans ce cas, le Module d'Extrémité de Conduite comporte des moyens de halage 106 tels qu'un anneau dans le prolongement de la barre du « L » coaxiale à la conduite sous-marine 1.It will be observed, however, that in this case, the Driving End Module comprises hauling means 106 such as a ring in the extension of the bar of the "L" coaxial with the underwater pipe 1.

Que le Module d'Extrémité soit en forme de « L ou de « T », le ballastage rapide ou instantané peut être obtenu par la présence de vannes pyrotechniques représentées par les signes de référence 108, 110 à la figure 14 commandées par fils ou ultra-sons. Une autre manière de provoquer ce ballastage rapide ou instantané serait par démolition d'une cloison en contact avec la mer, ou de plusieurs, ce qui assurerait l'envahissement instantané des compartiments à ballaster.Whether the End Module is in the form of an “L or a“ T ”, rapid or instant ballasting can be obtained by the presence of pyrotechnic valves represented by the reference signs 108, 110 in FIG. 14 controlled by wires or ultra -sons. Another way of causing this rapid or instant ballasting would be by demolition of a partition in contact with the sea, or of several, which would ensure the instant invasion of the ballaster compartments.

On observera que parmi les compartiments du Module d'Extrémité de Conduite, certains peuvent être remplis d'un ballast permanent en béton ou autre matériau lourd contribuant à la stabilité en service du Module d'Extrémité de Conduite lorsqu'il est soumis aux efforts d'amarrage tandis que d'autres compartiments peuvent être ballastables à l'eau ou à la boue lourde. Ce sont ces derniers compartiments qui sont maintenus vides lors du tirage de la conduite sous-marine 1 et font flotter une partie du Module d'Extrémité de Conduite dans un plan plus ou moins vertical comme la branche 104 du « L ou la partie avant 84 du « T » en contribuant ainsi à l'allègement du Module d'Extrémité de Conduite dans sa fonction de tête de tirage de la conduite sous-marine 1.It will be observed that among the compartments of the End Pipe Module, some can be filled with a permanent ballast of concrete or other heavy material contributing to the operating stability of the End Pipe Module when it is subjected to the forces of mooring while other compartments can be ballasted with water or heavy mud. It is these latter compartments which are kept empty during the drawing of the submarine pipe 1 and float part of the Driving End Module in a more or less vertical plane like the branch 104 of the "L or the front part 84 of the "T" thus contributing to the reduction of the End of Driving Module in its function of head of draft of the underwater pipe 1.

Dans le cas du mode de réalisation du Module d'Extrémité de Conduite en « L », la branche 104 du « L » lors du ballastage des compartiments non ballastés situés dans la branche 104 provoque un pivotement autour de la conduite 1.In the case of the embodiment of the “L” end pipe module, the branch 104 of the “L” during the ballasting of the non-ballasted compartments located in the branch 104 causes pivoting around the pipe 1.

Dans ce cas, le tube flexible est de préférence raccordé à un orifice de raccordement 112 situé à l'arrière du Module d'Extrémité de Conduite dans un plan vertical comme cela se voit bien à la figure 12.In this case, the flexible tube is preferably connected to a connection orifice 112 situated at the rear of the Pipe End Module in a vertical plane as can be seen in FIG. 12.

La présente invention permet donc d'obtenir un auto-ancrage dynamique de manière particulièrement simple tout en facilitant l'opération de mise en place de la conduite sous-marine 1 et du dispositif simplifié d'amarrage selon l'invention.The present invention therefore makes it possible to obtain a dynamic self-anchoring in a particularly simple manner while facilitating the operation of installing the underwater pipe 1 and the simplified mooring device according to the invention.

Selon une caractéristique avantageuse de ce procédé, comme mentionnée précédemment, le Module d'Extrémité de Conduite peut également être pourvu à terre de tous les accessoires nécessaires pour réaliser le dispositif complet unique selon l'invention d'amarrage et de chargement ou de déchargement de fluide. Les figures 16 et 17 représentent cette caractéristique préférée du procédé pour la mise en place.According to an advantageous characteristic of this process, as mentioned above, the End Pipe Module can also be provided on land with all the accessories necessary to make the unique complete device according to the invention for mooring and loading or unloading of fluid. Figures 16 and 17 show this preferred feature of the process for implementation.

On observera ainsi en référence aux figures 16 et 17 que la conduite 1 a été pourvue à terre d'un Module d'Extrémité de Conduite (représenté par exemple en « T ») 4, lui-même pourvu à terre du tube flexible 2 et du Module d'Extrémité de Flexible 18 à joint tournant 20, le Module d'Extrémité de Conduite 4 comportant l'aussière 52 fixée au moyen d'amarrage 16. On a représenté à la figure 16 le câble de tirage 118 relié à un treuil 120 d'une barge de tirage 122, un treuil auxiliaire 124 étant prévu pour tirer un câble auxiliaire 126 de tirage du Module d'Extrémité de flexible 18.It will thus be observed with reference to FIGS. 16 and 17 that the pipe 1 has been provided on the ground with a Pipe End Module (represented for example in "T") 4, itself provided on the ground with the flexible tube 2 and of the Flexible End Module 18 with rotating joint 20, the End Pipe Module 4 comprising the hawser 52 fixed to the mooring means 16. FIG. 16 shows the pulling cable 118 connected to a winch 120 of a draft barge 122, an auxiliary winch 124 being provided for pulling an auxiliary cable 126 for drawing the hose end module 18.

La figure 17 montre la vue en plan de cet ensemble.Figure 17 shows the plan view of this assembly.

En référence à la figure 18, on a représenté schématiquement la procédure de prise de poste sur le site.Referring to Figure 18, there is shown schematically the procedure for taking up a job on site.

Ainsi, on voit que sur le site, l'aussière flottante 52 peut être pourvue d'une touline d'aussière 130 avec marqueur flottant 132 et de même le module d'extrémité de flexible 18 flottant peut être pourvu d'une touline d'aussière 134 comportant aussi des marqueurs flottants 136 facilitant le pêchage par exemple par un grapin 138 depuis le navire-citerne 14 ou tanker. On observera ainsi que la prise de poste est particulièrement simple puisqu'il n'y a plus de bouée d'amarrage que le navire 14 risque de heurter, tandis qu'avec des dispositifs à bouées conventionnelles les conduites flexibles et les aussières tendent à s'enrouler autour de la bouée par suite des changements de sens du courant ou du vent, ce qui leur cause des dommages par frottement et nécessite la présence d'une vedette de service au terminal, afin de démêler ces lignes avant utilisation. Ceci nécessite souvent dans les dispositifs connus de les ancrer dans une direction fixe au moyen de corps morts que la vedette de service doit remonter en surface quand un navire se présente et ensuite la vedette oriente l'aussière et la conduite flottante dans la direction du navire.Thus, it can be seen that on the site, the floating hawser 52 can be provided with an hawser touline 130 with floating marker 132 and likewise the floating hose end module 18 can be provided with a hawser 134 also comprising floating markers 136 facilitating fishing for example by a grapple 138 from the tanker 14 or tanker. It will thus be observed that taking up the position is particularly simple since there is no longer a mooring buoy that the ship 14 risks striking, while with conventional buoy devices the flexible pipes and the hawsers tend to s '' wrap around the buoy due to changes in the direction of the current or wind, which causes them damage by friction and requires the presence of a service speedboat at the terminal, in order to untangle these lines before use. This often requires in known devices to anchor them in a fixed direction by means of dead bodies that the service speedboat must go up to the surface when a ship presents itself and then the speedboat directs the hawser and the floating pipe in the direction of the ship .

Avec le dispositif selon la présente invention, cette précaution d'ancrage temporaire des lignes flottantes est inutile puisqu'il n'y a plus de bouée flottante ancrée et les manoeuvres de prise de poste sont donc très simplifiées et celles-ci s'en trouvent facilitées par la présence des flotteurs de marquage et de touline d'aussière, comme représenté à la figure 18 bien que ces dernières caractéristiques ne soient pas absolument nécessaires. De même, le dispositif selon l'invention évite la présence d'une vedette de service car il est aisé de pêcher depuis le navire au grapin les flotteurs marqueurs qui garnissent les toulines menant à l'aussière et au flexible flottant comme cela se conçoit bien à partir de la figure 18.With the device according to the present invention, this precautionary measure of temporary anchoring of the floating lines is useless since there is no longer an anchored floating buoy and the maneuvers of taking up positions are therefore very simplified and these are found therein. facilitated by the presence of floats hawser marking and brooding, as shown in Figure 18 although these latter features are not absolutely necessary. Similarly, the device according to the invention avoids the presence of a service speedboat because it is easy to fish from the ship to the grapevine marker floats which line the toulines leading to the hawser and the floating hose as is well conceived from figure 18.

D'autre part, le dispositif selon l'invention présente l'avantage considérable de ne pas utiliser de joint tournant sous-marin qui soit inaccessible de la surface pour surveillance et entretien et/ou directement ou indirectement soumis aux tractions d'amarre. De même, la conduite flexible va directement et tout naturellement de la conduite sous-marine 1 au navire sans passage obligé par une bouée. On comprendra également que le dispositif simplifié unique d'amarrage et de chargement ou de déchargement de fluide selon l'invention permet de réduire sensiblement le coût d'installation et son coût augmente nettement moins avec la profondeur de l'eau que dans le cas des dispositifs antérieurs à bouée.On the other hand, the device according to the invention has the considerable advantage of not using an underwater rotating joint which is inaccessible from the surface for monitoring and maintenance and / or directly or indirectly subjected to mooring pulls. Likewise, the flexible pipe goes directly and quite naturally from the underwater pipe 1 to the ship without having to pass through a buoy. It will also be understood that the single simplified device for mooring and loading or unloading of fluid according to the invention makes it possible to significantly reduce the installation cost and its cost increases significantly less with the depth of the water than in the case of anterior buoy devices.

D'autre part, le module d'extrémité de conduite 4 peut présenter d'autres formes et en particulier une forme en « 1".On the other hand, the pipe end module 4 can have other shapes and in particular a "1" shape.

Claims (18)

1. Simplified single device for mooring and loading or unloading tankers (14), of the kind comprising a fluid feeding or discharging underwater pipeline (1) to which is connected at least one flexible hose (2) through the medium of a Pipeline End Module (4) resting on the sea bottom (5), the said flexible hose (2) comprising a first end and a free second end (8), the free end (8) of the said flexible hose (2) being provided connectable with loading or unloading ducts or manifolds (10, 12) provided on the said ship (14), the said Pipeline End Module (4) comprising means (16) for mooring the tanker (14) and being provided with a sufficient mass for sustaining the traction of the ship (14), characterized in that the Pipeline End Module comprises an opening (6) communicating with the underwater pipeline (2), onto which opening (6) is connected the said first end of the said flexible hose (4) which is a flexible hose (4) withstanding the twist efforts ; a Hose End Module (18) comprising at least a rotary joint (20) being also provided, the said Hose End Module (18) being at least temporarily connected with the said loading or unloading ducts or manifolds (10, 12), the said free end (8) of the flexible hose is at least temporarily connected to one part of said rotary joint so as to put the said flexible hose (2) at least temporarily in communication with the loading and unloading ducts (10, 12) provided on the ship (14), so that the swinging and clubbing of the ship (14) under the action of the outer elements such as a prevailing wind, current and swell, result in causing the rotary joint (20) to rotate in view of the fastening of the first end of the flexible hose (2) onto the Pipeline End Module (4) resting onto the sea bottom (5) as well of the resistance to twist of the flexible hose (2).
2. Device according to claim 1, characterized in that the aforesaid rotary joint (20) is incorporated into the body of the Hose End Module (18), the free end (8) of the flexible hose (2) is connected to one part of the rotary joint (20) whereas the Hose End Module (18) is connected to the other part of the rotary joint (20) or forms an integral portion of this other part, so that the flexible hose (2) is mounted in rotating relation to the Hose End Module (18).
3. Device according to claim 1 or 2, characterized in that the Hose End Module (18) comprises compartments forming integrated floats.
4. Device according to claim 1 or 2, characterized in that the Hose End Module (18) is reduced to a rotary joint (20).
5. Device according to any one of claims 1 to 3, characterized in that the Hose End Module (18) serves as a manifold and comprises at least one stop valve (34, 36) from which extends a tributory flexible hose (38, 40, respectively).
6. Device according to any one of the foregoing claims, characterized in that the Hose End Module (18) comprises mooring means (30, 32) and preferably also flexible fenders (42, 44).
7. Device according to any one of the foregoing claims, characterized in that the Hose End Module (18) is secured onto the ship (14), preferably to her bow, the flexible hose (2) comprising at its free end (8) a mere shutter and the Hose End Module (18) comprising a quick coupler associated with its rotary joint (20).
8. Device according to claim 7, characterized in that it comprises a hawser (52) of which one of its ends is permanently fastened to the aforesaid mooring means (16) located on the sea bottom and the other one of its ends is provided to be free to positively float ; the said hawser (52) and the flexible hose (2) are provided to lead both of them to the stem of the ship (14) at neighbouring points but the Hose End Module (18) slightly spaced apart from the axis X-X of the ship (14) which is reserved to the fastening of the hawser (52).
9. Device according to any one of claims 1 to 8, characterized in that the Pipeline End Module (4) consists essentially of a closed hollow structure comprising inner tight transverse partitions (such as 70, 71, 72) defining independent ballast- able compartments (such as 74, 75, 76).
10. Device according to any one of the foregoing claims, characterized in that the Pipeline End Module (4) has substantially the shape of an « L ".
11. Device according to any one of claims 1 to 9, characterized in that the Pipeline End Module (4) has substantially the shape of a « T" with preferably the leg of the « T" positioned in extension of the underwater pipeline (1).
12. Device according to any one of claims 1 to 11, characterized in that the Pipeline End Module (14) comprises a rear portion (80) secured to the underwater pipeline (1) and comprising a port in communication with the underwater pipeline (1) and for connection with the flexible hose (2) ; and a forward portion (84) pivotally connected (at 86) to the rear portion (80) to be pivoting in relation to the said rear portion (80) either in a vertical plane passing through the axis of the underwater pipeline (1) or in a vertical plane perpendicular to the axis of the underwater pipeline (1), or both.
13. Device according to claim 10 or 12, characterized in that the bar of the « L which is not aligned with the underwater pipeline (1) comprises at its free end teeth or spades (105) for anchoring the Pipeline End Module onto the sea bottom, the said teeth or spades (105) consisting preferably of flat panels or tubes open at their lower ends.
14. Device according to claim 11 or 12, characterized in that the horizontal bar of the « T comprises on either side teeth or spades (94) for anchoring the Pipeline End Module onto the sea bottom, the said teeth or spades consisting preferably of flat panels or tubes open at their lower ends.
15. Device according to any one of the foregoing claims, characterized in that the Pipeline End Module (4) comprises a rod (60) pivotally connected at its base (at 62) onto the body (63) of the Pipeline End Module (4) resting onto the sea bottom and provided with a float (64) so as to have its free end when the ship is not moored to the Pipeline End Module (4), flush with or projecting from the water surface, the said free end comprising the aforesaid mooring means (16) and possibly comprising a hawser (52) provided to be floating advantageously together with a marking buoy.
16. Process for positioning an underwater pipeline (1) of a simplified mooring device such as defined according to any one of claims 1 to 15 and in particular to claims 9, 13 or 14, characterized in that one mounts on shore the Pipeline End Module (4) in the non ballasted condition of at least some of the aforesaid compartments, onto the underwater pipeline (1), the Pipeline End Module (4) thus having its raised forward portion (84) under water (Figure 10), one hauls the underwater pipeline (1) -Pipeline End Module (4) assembly comprising an at least provisional hauling means (96) and when it is arrived on the site, one quicky or instantaneously ballasts the non ballasted compartments of the Pipeline End Module (4) for causing an automatic anchoring of the Pipeline End Module promoted by the slewing of the Pipeline End Module caused by the ballasting still preferably owing to the presence of the aforesaid anchoring teeth or spades (94 ; 105).
17. Process according to claim 16, characterized in that the Pipeline End Module (4) is also fitted on shore with its flexible hose (2) and the Hose End Module (10) (Figures 16 and 17).
EP83402015A 1982-10-18 1983-10-17 Simplified standard device for anchoring and loading or unloading tankers starting from an under water conduit for fluid supply or removal, and method of setting up the under water conduit and the simplified anchoring device Expired EP0107999B1 (en)

Applications Claiming Priority (2)

Application Number Priority Date Filing Date Title
FR8217400A FR2534545A1 (en) 1982-10-18 1982-10-18 SIMPLIFIED SIMPLIFYING DEVICE FOR MOORING AND LOADING OR UNLOADING TANK VESSELS FROM AN UNDERWATER SUPPLY OR FLUID EXHAUST DUCT AND METHOD FOR ESTABLISHING UNDERWATER DRIVING AND UNDERWATER DRIVING SIMPLIFIED MOORING DEVICE
FR8217400 1982-10-18

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EP0107999A1 EP0107999A1 (en) 1984-05-09
EP0107999B1 true EP0107999B1 (en) 1986-12-30

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EP83402015A Expired EP0107999B1 (en) 1982-10-18 1983-10-17 Simplified standard device for anchoring and loading or unloading tankers starting from an under water conduit for fluid supply or removal, and method of setting up the under water conduit and the simplified anchoring device

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US (1) US4587919A (en)
EP (1) EP0107999B1 (en)
JP (1) JPS5992291A (en)
DE (1) DE3368570D1 (en)
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JP6378954B2 (en) * 2014-07-10 2018-08-22 新日鉄住金エンジニアリング株式会社 Floating body mooring device

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FR2534545B1 (en) 1985-01-11
JPS5992291A (en) 1984-05-28
FR2534545A1 (en) 1984-04-20
DE3368570D1 (en) 1987-02-05
US4587919A (en) 1986-05-13
EP0107999A1 (en) 1984-05-09

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