METHOD AND APPARATUS FOR LAYING OFFSHORE PIPELINE FROM A VESSEL

摘要

The present invention relates to a method and apparatus for laying offshore pipeline from a reel lay vessel. The invention involves providing a pipeline laying tower with a travelling clamp, which can be used to suspend the pipeline from the vessel, and a tensioner apparatus on the same tower, for providing a clamping force which can be used to suspend the pipeline from the vessel. The travelling clamp and tensioner apparatus may either be used separately or in conjunction with one another during the laying operation. The invention allows pipeline to be laid in very deep water.