Design of Guyed Tower for 1,000 ft of Water

Abstract

The guyed tower is a new structural system that is technically feasible and economically competitive in the development of deepwater petroleum reserves. The installation of Exxon's Lena guyed tower in 1,000 ft (305 m) of water has culminated 12 yr of guyed tower technology development. The platform is the second deepest in the world, and the installation of the three‐level drilling and production deck and two drilling rigs makes it the tallest, at a total height of 1,305 ft (398 m). The platform design is reviewed with emphasis on features unique to a guyed tower. Structural design, buoyancy tank design, guyed system design, pile foundation design, transportation and launch design, and pipeline riser design are covered. Severe storm analysis and fatigue analysis for the tower are also covered.