Abstract: This invention provides a method for fabricating a broad-based submersible structure useful for deep water installations. In this method the lower portion of said structure is fabricated in two half-sections. The first half-section of said braod-based submersible structure is fabricated in a substantially horizontal position, and then raised from the ground to a height sufficient to enable a second half-section (also fabricated in a substantially horizontal position) to be moved therebeneath. The second half-section is aligned with said raised first half-section and said aligned half-sections are joined to provide the lower portion of the structure. The lower portion of the structure may be then joined to the upper portion of said structure to provide said broad-based submersible structure in a horizontal position, and the structure rotated from a substantially horizontal position to a vertical position.

Abstract: A method for protecting a stationary rigid pile extending through a layer of mud susceptible to movement and imbedded in an underlying competent bottom from the forces which the mud can exert against the pile. Fluid is ejected outwardly from the interior of the pile through a plurality of orifices into the mud adjacent to the pile. The ejected fluid increases the fluid content of the adjacent mud and thereby reduces the forces which the mud can exert on the pile.