Ice breaking device e.g. for offshore platforms - has pairs of revolving worms to bend and break ice layer

摘要

Floating elements, e.g. semisubmerged offshore platform or ships, are equipped with ice breaking devices for use in arctic regions. These devices are designed as large-diameter worms which grip the surface of an ice layer and exert a downward force on it. This requires much less power than ice disintegrating devices. Free floating elements can now stay at their site, free from laterial ice forces. Stationary elements need not be designed strong enought to withstand the ice thrust. A ship can be moved through an ice field by the pulling force of the worms.