Ocean industry 

Abstract: Concept du mini reservoir a toit flottant (Minifloater), developpe par la SIPM (Shell International Petroleum Maatschappij) et la MSC (Marine Structure Consultants) pour l'exploitation des champs marginaux en eau profonde (a partir de 150 m/500 ft). L'article passe en revue les principales caracteristiques de conception, les avantages operationnels et le cout estime de trois scenarios d'application

Abstract: A compliant tower is a slender tubular steel structure of relatively constant cross section over its height. Unlike a rigid jacket or gravity structure it is designed such that its fundamental natural period is greater than that of the ocean waves, so that much of the wave loading on the tower is resisted by its inertia rather than being imposed on other structural elements. A study undertaken by Exxon Production Research Co. has shown that for water depths of 1,000 to 3,000 ft and functional and environmental conditions typical of the Gulf of Mexico a new Compliant Piled Tower design is considerably less expensive than five alternative compliant tower designs considered. This design comprises a fabricated steel tower with a uniform square cross section; long piles are installed around the periphery of each corner leg and extend upward along the legs to an attachment point considerably above the mudline. For deepwater designs these piles are attached near the structure's midpoint, while for shallower applications they are extended to the surface inside sleeves that have the effect of increasing their length. No expensive guylines or large buoyancy tanks are required. The results for each of the six different designs compared in the study are summarised.

Abstract: Use of chelating agents with improved borate crosslinker provides means to produce high-quality fracturing fluid from seawater base without costly equipment or complicated procedures. Seawater-mixed borate-crosslinked fracturing fluids (SMBCF) using chelates are high-quality fluids that should be used when seawater is abundant. The chelates offer an economical means to treat seawater, and in turn provide the fluid with thermal stability, optimum proppant transport and placement, high retained fracture conductivity, scale inhibition properties, additional pH buffering capacity, good fluid loss control, adjustable crosslink delay time, ease of preparation and environmental safety.

Abstract: Textes de 5 articles consacres au developpement par Conoco de la plateforme flottante a jambes de tension installee le 12 juillet 1984 sur le champ petrolier Hutton a 90 milles au Nord-Ouest des Shetlands