Abstract: A temporary rig of the jack-up type for oil and gas exploration. The rig is towed to a selected site where the legs are lowered to the ocean floor and the deck is raised out of the water. Piles are then pushed into the ocean floor by a series of extensions of hydraulic jacks to anchor the legs. The piles can be pulled up by contracting the jacks in a similar manner so that the rig can be moved to a new location. The jacking mechanisms move within pile guides that form parts of the legs.

Abstract: Members, such as piles for off-shore oil and gas well platforms, are driven into the ground by the extension of a hydraulic jacking cylinder. The cylinder is held in position within a working tower in which the uppermost pile section is contained. Electro-osmosis may be used to reduce soil friction. Successive pile sections are brought into position by securing them to a horizontal loading door of the working tower and then raising the door pivotally. The section is then suspended within the working tower and aligned with the prececing section by an internal alignment tool prior to welding.