Strongback Traveling Clamp

Abstract

A modified strongback for laying pipeline offshore that utilizes a movable clamp. One end of the strongback is modified to include a travel mechanism. A pipe clamp is mounted on the travel mechanism to allow movement of the clamp as necessary to accommodate different pipe joint lengths. A mechanism for locking the clamp in the desired position is provided on the strongback.

Description

FIELD AND BACKGROUND OF INVENTION[0001]The invention is related to offshore pipe laying equipment and more particularly to equipment for handling long lengths of pipe.[0002]Near vertical laying of pipeline offshore utilizes specialized equipment for handling lengths of pipe (pipe joints). U.S. Pat. Nos. 5,421,675 and 5,464,307 are directed to equipment for near vertical laying of pipeline offshore and provide descriptions of the handling steps required for pipeline lay operations. Near vertical laying of pipeline requires equipment capable of picking up a pipe joint from the horizontal position and moving it into a near vertical position for adding it to the pipeline being installed. This equipment positions the pipe joint in alignment with the pipeline so that the pipe joint can be welded to the pipeline. Existing arrangements utilize a strongback, typically a triangular frame with clamps for gripping the pipe joint and moving it into a tower for welding to the pipeline. Depending ...

AI Technical Summary

Benefits of technology

[0008]The various features of novelty which characterize the invention are pointed out with particularity in the claims annexed to and forming part of this disclosure. For a better understanding of the present invention, and the operating advantages attained by its use, reference is made to the accompanying drawings and descriptive matter, forming a part of this disclosure, in which a preferred embodiment of the invention is illustrated.

Problems solved by technology

The result is that the prior standard clamp spacing in the strongback is no longer able to clamp one end of the pipe joint and provide the required support over the full length of the pipe joint.

However the applicants are not aware of any strongback modifications that address the need for accommodating different pipe joint lengths that allow the use of a single strongback on a vessel no matter what the current variation in pipe joint length may be.

Thus, the strongback and associated equipment for handling the pipe is large, heavy, expensive and should be capable of multiple duties to provide the most cost efficient pipe laying vessels and equipment.

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