Exxon Production Research Company

Peter J Guile

Richard H Gunderson

Terry N Gardner

A coupling 10 for connecting an elongate first member 12 to a second member 14. The first member 12 is provided with external radial fins 16. The second member 14 defines a recess provided with a number of internal radial fins 20. The first and second members 12,14 and their fins 16,20 are sized such that the first member 12 can be positioned within the recess of the second member 14 with each fin of each member extending between two corresponding fins of the other member. At least one wedge 24 is positioned in the space intermediate each set of opposing fins 16,20. The fins 16,20 and wedge 24 are configured such that biasing the first member 12 in a first axial direction relative to the second member 14 causes the wedge 24 to lock the fins 16,20 together, preventing movement of the first member 12 in the first axial direction. The present coupling 10 can be used to support the members 12,14 under either a tensile or compressive axial loading. The coupling 10 is especially well suited for adjustably connecting a tension leg offshore platform to the tethers securing it to the seafloor.

System for connecting two members together

A buoyancy system for a tension leg platform tether 10 or other element extending a significant vertical distance through a body of water. A series of bulkheads 25 divide the interior of the tether 10 into individual buoyancy cells 31. A central access tube 32 extends along the central axis of the tether 10, passing through a sealed penetration in each bulkhead 25. A series of cascade conduits 42 are provided the lower portion of each buoyancy cell 31 in fluid communication with the buoyancy cell 31 immediately above. A tool 82 is provided for injecting air into a selected buoyancy cell 31. As air is injected, water exists through the central access tube 32 until the buoyancy cell 32 is emptied of water, at which point air passes through the cascade conduit 42 into the adjacent upper buoyancy cell. The tool 82 can also be used to selectively flood individual buoyancy cells 31.

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Berkshire, United Kingdom

Peter J Guile