Abstract: The invention relates to a plastic jacket that is used for repairing underwater piles that have been corroded by the wave action at the waterline or by a tidal zone. The jacket consists of a cylindrical wall having annular corrugations on its exterior surface. The cylindrical wall has a longitudinal cut along its length to exhibit two opposing edges. A seal is placed between the opposing edges. Opposite from the longitudinal cut there is a V-shaped cut through the corrugations to the cylindrical wall to create a living hinge in the plastic material of the wall. Banding is provided to pull the opposing edges into a tight relationship and trapping the seal there between. The V-shaped cuts enable the jacket to be opened and placed around a damaged pile in spite of the corrugations which would prevent such an opening.

Abstract: An apparatus for rapid venting of the compressed air and deballasting of a buoyant air tank in a positively buoyant riser system in the event of a premature drive off or a riser section parting is shown. The rapid venting of the compressed air ensures that the riser section cannot rapidly ascend to the surface and damage the drilling rig positioned above. In a first embodiment, the buoyancy tank or housing includes a circumferentially shaped channel positioned on its upper end. An annularly shaped ring is placed over the circumferentially shaped channel and sealed in place by a frangible weld. A tether line attaches to the annularly shaped ring and extends to an anchor point on the BOP stack below. In the event of a catastrophic parting of the riser, as the riser sections and attached buoyancy tank or housings begin ascending, the tether line is drawn tight.

Abstract: An energy-absorbing bumper system features a variably controllable valve which is responsive to impact conditions. The initially closed valve opens upon maximization of the pressure reading upon the bumper, and maintains the same open setting (in other words, the same valve area) during such period of pressure maximization. During the succeeding period of pressure declination from maximum, the valve undergoes ongoing adjustment of its open setting (in other words, ongoing adjustment of its valve area) so that the reaction force of the bumper remains constant. The valve closes (in other words, the valve area becomes zero) when the pressure falls abruptly toward zero (an occurrence which correlates with a similar plummet in reaction force, as well as with near or approximate motionlessness of the impacting body), thereby avoiding or curtailing an unwanted rebound effect.

Abstract: A rotating brush assembly for cleaning shellfish predator screens is provided.

Abstract: A buoyancy device to be clamped around least one longitudinal element. The buoyancy device comprises an assembled clamping device which is to be fastened around the element, and at least one buoyancy member connected to the clamping device. The buoyancy member is divided longitudinally in at least two sections and is arranged around the element together with the clamping device. The buoyancy member is divided in at least two separate or jointly pivoted buoyancy segments which may be folded around the elements(s) and loosely enclose a part of this (these). The clamping device is divided in at least two separate, or hinged together, clamping segments, adapted to be folded around the element(s), preferably in a firm and prestressed manner.

Abstract: A drilling unit comprises a floating drilling rig, a subsea wellhead, and a riser connecting the subsea drilling rig with the subsea wellhead. A floatation collar encircles the riser so as to reduce deck load on the floating drilling rig. The floatation collar comprises a hollow fabric body filled with gas. The floatation collar has a longitudinal axis and is formed from a sidewall body having a longitudinally extending slit extending through the sidewall body. The slit enables the floatation collar to be transversely mounted onto the marine riser.

Abstract: A floating offshore drilling/producing structure. The structure is formed from a plurality of closely spaced vertically oriented buoyant columns on which one or more modules or decks may be placed to support process equipment, a drilling rig, utilities, and accommodations for personnel. The columns are held in the spaced relationship by a plurality of horizontal plates spaced along the length of the columns and vertical plates located near the bottom of the columns and near the top of the columns. Drilling and/or producing is accomplished through risers located approximately in the center of the structure. The structure includes fixed ballast, an oil storage area, and voids and variable ballast for offsetting the lighter weight of the stored oil. The columns have a smaller water plane area than the horizontal plates.

Abstract: An ultrashort fairing is disclosed for suppressing vortex-induced vibration in substantially cylindrical marine elements. The ultrashort falling has a leading edge substantially defined by the circular profile of the marine element for a distance following at least about 270 degrees thereabout and a pair of shaped sides departing from the circular profile of the marine riser and converging at a trailing edge. The ultrashort fairing has dimensions of thickness and chord length such that the chord to thickness ratio is between about 1.20 and 1.10.

Abstract: An apparatus for rapid venting of the compressed air and deballasting of a buoyant air tank in a positively buoyant riser system in the event of a premature drive off or a riser section parting is shown. The rapid venting of the compressed air ensures that the riser section cannot rapidly ascend to the surface and damage the drilling rig positioned above. In a first embodiment, the buoyancy tank or housing includes a vertical channel positioned on its exterior. A cover plate is placed over the vertical channel and sealed in place by a frangible weld. A tether line attaches to the cover plate and extends to an anchor point on the BOP stack below. In the event of a catastrophic parting of the riser, as the riser sections and attached buoyancy tank or housings begin ascending, the tether line is drawn tight. Further ascension of the buoyancy tank or housings, causes the frangible weld joints to break and peel back the cover plate, exposing the vertical channels.

Abstract: A staggered fairing system is disclosed for suppressing vortex-induced vibration of a substantially cylindrical marine element in a plurality of fixed fairings are deployed. Each fairing has a leading edge substantially defined by the circular profile of the marine element and a pair of shaped sides departing from the circular profile of the marine riser and converging at a trailing edge. The connections between the marine element and the fairings through which the fairings are secured to the marine element in a non-rotative manner hold the fairings in an array of different orientations along the axis of the marine element. A method for protecting a substantially cylindrical marine element from vortex-induced vibration is also disclosed in which a plurality of fairings are installed about the marine element in a non-rotative manner so as establish an array of fairing orientations along the axis of the marine element.

Abstract: A caisson wellhead system having a weak point wherein the wellhead system may be installed in a well as a single unit. The caisson wellhead system of the invention includes a lower tubular member having an upper rim. A lower rim of an upper tubular member is placed on the upper end of the lower tubular member. A removable connector is installed inside of and between the lower tubular member and upper tubular member for temporarily connecting the upper tubular member and the lower tubular member. A weak point is formed at the interface between the lower tubular member and the upper tubular member when the removable connector is removed. Therefore, the caisson wellhead system will break at a controlled location if any external components of the well equipment are struck by a foreign object such as an iceberg.

Abstract: The impact absorption system uniquely features arrangement of composite structures which include fiber-reinforced high strain-to-failure viscoelastic matrix material. According to many embodiments, a gravitationally or buoyantly suspended hollow fiber-reinforced urethane reaction bumper is closely and anteriorly situated with respect to fiber-reinforced urethane tension tubes which are secured at the ends and disposed in an approximately vertical plane. In operation, an incoming marine vessel impacts the bumper which in turn impacts the tubes. The invention takes advantage of the great deformability, high energy absorbency and other beneficial properties of fiber-reinforced high strain-to-failure viscoelastic matrix material. Moreover, applicability/adaptability of individual bumper systems to varieties of marine vessels is made possible through analysis and arrangement/rearrangement/exchange/interchange of structural components.

Abstract: The present invention is a method for deploying a drilling riser VIV suppression system in which a first retaining ring is installed on a syntactic foam buoyancy module encircling the drilling riser with a spring loaded connection. The spring loaded connection is capable of adjusting the diameter of the retaining ring automatically to compensate for compression of the syntactic foam under the influence of water pressure. VIV suppression provisions is then installed about the drilling riser using the first retaining ring as a load shoulder.

Abstract: Method for suppressing borer attack and accompanying erosion in a marine structure such as a pier or dock, and a borer-immune structure resulting from application of the method. The method features steps for encasing the exposed surfaces of a wooden marine structure with a plurality of rigid plates sized to the surfaces to be encased. Steps are provided for supplying a water-resistant sealant at predetermined regions on the plates such that the sealant may be spread over predetermined portions of the structure surface and the plates by clamping the plates and sealant to the marine structure with a corrosive resistant fastener. The method also preferably includes steps for providing the encasing plates with sealant-locating furrows at the plate faces that mate with the marine structure to be encased, the locating furrows being provided for receiving the sealant at a prescribed location relative to plate borders and for pre-measuring the amount of sealant to be applied.

Abstract: A fairing system is disclosed for installation about a drilling riser deployed in a deepwater application. In another aspect of the invention, a method for deploying a drilling riser fairing system is disclosed in which a first retaining ring is installed on a buoyancy can encircling the drilling riser and a drilling riser fairings is installed above the first retaining ring. Drilling riser fairing installation folds a pair of fairing sides of a fairing shroud about an axially disposed hinge to surround the buoyancy can above the first retaining ring. A tail connection system secures the tail ends of the fairing sides together and a pair of struts are installed to further secure the fairing sides together. A plurality of interior bearing pads are provided on the internal circumference of the fairing shroud and axial bearing pads are provided on flanges at the upper and lower edges of the fairing shroud.

Abstract: An assembly having a flexible enclosure, filled with a suitable pressure wave attenuating medium material having a lower acoustic impedance than water so as to reflect shock wave energy. This basic configuration can be mounted in the form of panels and attached to the structure it is intended to protect, in which case it will form a flexible barrier of low acoustic impedance and be orientated between the structure and the water or ground in contact with the structure. The pressure absorbing and attenuating medium that will reflect shock waves may be a gas, compressed air, a closed cell foam or expanded foam. The flexible enclosure may be made of rubber or plastic or elastomer. For certain types of foaming agents, the outer skin will harden into a suitable enclosure so that no discrete shell or enclosure is necessary.

Abstract: A fairing system is disclosed for protecting multiple, parallel, bundled but separate cylindrical elements deployed in offshore applications. The fairing system deploys a plurality of elongated fairing surface elements foldable about an axis with a connection system joining the elongated edges of the fairing surface elements in a folded manner about the axis. A plurality of thrust bearings are orthogonally connected across the fairing surface elements at each axial end and an axially extending circular rotational surface is defined by the interior of each of the folded fairing surface elements and a transverse edge of the thrust bearings connected thereto. This rotational surface has a diameter which circumscribes the multiple bundled cylindrical elements. A plurality of clamps interconnect the bundled, cylindrical elements and a bearing collar on the axial ends of the clamps is provided to receive the thrust bearings of the axial ends of the fairing elements.

Abstract: A tension leg platform in deep water over an underwater wellhead system supports an upstanding pig riser. The riser ID is smaller than the shoreline ID delivering produced oil to shore. The shoreline is pigged by a tapered nose pig inserted into the bell nipple at the top, open end to enable pig passage down the riser compressing the pig body. The body is formed of N discs and N foam donut spacers to clean the shoreline ID.

Abstract: A first aspect of the present invention is an energy dissipating dolphin including a plurality of elongate piles in a body of water extending substantially vertically from a bed underlying the body of water. Each pile has a proximal end driven sufficiently deep into the bed to be substantially fixed against horizontal movement and pivoting at the proximal end about a lengthwise axis upon application of a horizontal load. A plate has a hole corresponding to each distal end of a pile, the hole having a diameter sufficient to actually receive a corresponding distal end of a pile while allowing for rotation and translation of the distal end of the pile relative to the plate. A connector connects the plate and the piles.

Abstract: A system for removing deposits from an underwater structure comprises a series of interconnected dog members which can be formed into a ring and adjusted angularly relative to one another to conform to the underwater structure. The series of dog members is supported by floats, which allow a preassembled line of dog members to be moved into position and wrapped around an underwater structure. The free ends of the line of dog members are connected together by a pin having a latching spring which can be operated easily underwater. Multiple rings can be used, one above another. An annular net, secured to concentric rings and suspended underneath one or more deposit removal rings, catches dropped deposits. The inner one of the concentric rings can also be used as a deposit removal ring. The dogs can also be disposed in a vertical ring for removal of deposits from a horizontal underwater structure, and a suspended basket is used to catch dropped deposits.

Abstract: A wall surface of a structure to be rendered antifouling is covered with antifouling panels caused to firmly adhere thereto and fixed. Not only can this work be conducted easily and quickly but also part of the antifouling panels can be easily replaced. The disclosed antifouling wall structure and method of constructing the antifouling wall are characterized in that antifouling panels each comprising a base material layer and, formed thereon, an antifouling paint layer are arranged on a wall surface of structure to be rendered antifouling so that the antifouling panels have their side of antifouling paint layer brought into contact with water and detachably fixed by means of fastening members.

Abstract: A fender system for protecting a high curvature surface includes a top layer of UHMWP, a middle resilient layer of elastomeric material and a base layer. The base layer and resilient layer have notches provided therein to facilitate bending the fender system in accordance with the curved surface.

Abstract: A method and apparatus to determine whether or not wrapping of submerged timber or wood piling is efficacious in preventing infestation of the submerged timber or wood which includes a self-contained test kit which permits the testing of the wrapping of the submerged timber or wood pilings to determine whether or not infestation from marine microorganisms or marine borers is continuing despite the wrapping. A sample of the alleged stagnate water between the wrapping and the piling is taken for testing for oxygen content, temperature, and ph, without denigrating the integrity of the wrapping.

Abstract: A means (20) for protecting a device (2) which a installed on the sea bed (11) and projects up therefrom. The means comprises a central section (21) which is arranged to be attached to the upper section (9) of the device (2), and legs (22) which are linked to the central section (21) and arranged to extend away from it and slantingly down to the sea bed (11). The legs (22) can be pivoted into a position, wherein their longitudinal direction is substantially coincident.

Abstract: An apparatus for the removal or inhibition of underwater growth on an elongate submerged body. It includes at least one collar adapted to extend loosely around the elongate submerged body (28). The collar includes a breaker device to apply impact force on the underwater growth to break it up. The breaker device includes a voluminous body (16) into which ambient water flows in and out. The device can advantageously include rollers (12). The apparatus on a smaller scale can act to inhibit the settlement of new underwater growth.

Abstract: A quay side device for engaging a chain for a marine fender attached to a fitting face of a quaywall or another berthing installation comprises a pair of rigid plates separated in parallel to each other, a round hole formed in a protruding portion of the rigid plate from the quaywall, a support rod detachably inserted into the round holes between the protruding portions of the rigid plates, and a fixing member arranged in end portions of the rigid plates embedded in the quaywall.

Abstract: An apparatus powered by waves, currents, or tides for eliminating or preventing marine growth on a structure. The apparatus includes (a) at least one ring adapted to surround a submerged support member of the structure, the at least one ring being substantially continuous; (b) at least one pair of rollers rotatable against a surface of the support member for cleaning the surface of the support member; and (c) a linking member for linking the roller means to the ring without interrupting continuity of the substantially continuous ring and for allowing rotation of the rollers against the surface of the support member in response to forces generated by the waves, currents or tides.

Abstract: A system for alleviating scouring damage at the base of a structure anchored in the bed of a body of liquid flowing at a velocity relative to the structure, such as a bridge pier in a river bed, comprises a plurality of hollow vehicle tires surrounding the structure in a matrix of plural stacks of tires connected together with their toroidal axes substantially aligned. Each stack comprises a predetermined number of tires so that the top surface of the matrix forms a predetermined angle relative to horizontal.

Abstract: The present invention relates to an improved apparatus and method for minimizing vortex induced vibrations and hydrodynamic drag of a drilling riser. Vortex induced vibrations and hydrodynamic drag are minimized by installing on a drilling riser streamlined faring sections. The fairing sections are installed on and removed from a riser through the use of one or more door panels on a rounded front portion that have a latch mechanism which can be easily opened and closed. The fairing sections are configured so they can nest one inside the other for easy storage. A tapered back or tail section of each fairing section has an attachment receptacle for engagement by a handling mechanism with a telescoping arm for grasping the fairing section. The handling mechanism is designed to move the fairing sections between a rack, where they are stored, and a position adjacent to the riser.

Abstract: A marine riser system having a fairing rotatably mounted thereon. The fairing is comprised of two substantially identical components which when assembled around the riser form a wing-like structure which weathervanes about the riser. Each fairing component is configured so that it will nest within the others thereby saving valuable storage space. Each fairing is mounted on the riser by a pair of bearing collars which are spaced at a distance substantially equal to the width of the fairing. Each bearing collar is made in two parts for easy assembly and each has two spaced bearing surfaces thereon. One end of one fairing is mounted onto one of the collar's bearing surfaces while one end of an adjacent fairing is mounted on the other bearing surface.

Abstract: A method of retrofitting an offshore platform fendering system includes the steps of installing a jib crane on a platform leg above the existing fendering system, detaching the upper and lower load cells from the leg, and removing the existing fendering system using the jib crane in concert with a support vessel crane. The upper load cell of the existing fendering system is detached to leave a protruding cylindrical stub. Using the jib crane and vessel crane, a new unitary fendering system is then positioned next to the leg. The upper load cell is coupled to the stub and the lower load cell is clamped to the leg. The new fendering system is installed as a unitary piece, that is, an elongated bumper with the upper and lower load cells already attached.

Abstract: A passive fire protection system for the protection of conduits, cable trays, support rods, and structural steel against flame and heat in a severe total environment type fire such as a hydrocarbon fire which includes a multi-layered (laminated), flexible material containing a plurality of layers of intumescent materials. This multi-layered material is configured such that it provides a containment system for the carbonaceous foam resulting from the expansion of the intumescent materials.

Abstract: The protective fender includes a cushion body that has the shape of an elongated longitudinally cut half cylinder with an inner and an outer surface. The two edges of the inner surfaces include each a slap member that extends therefrom and embraces the dock posts. The slaps can be tailored to avoid the deck when embracing the posts so that a sufficiently large area above and below the deck can be protected to account for tide changes. Different embodiments for the fastening assemblies used can be implemented with laces, Velcro pads or snap buttons, all intended to keep the cushion body along the post at a position between the post and the approaching boat. The fender can be readily removed, when required.

Abstract: Vortex-induced vibrations of unsupported segments of subsea pipelines are reduced by providing a shroud that can be lowered onto the subsea pipeline wherein the shroud creates turbulence that interferes with vortex shedding and thereby reduces the amplitude of vibrations are reduced. The preferred shroud comprises a plurality of rods supported in vertical planes along the sides of the pipeline. Installation can be performed without the use of divers.

Abstract: A modular scour monitoring device which employs magnets located within a weighted descending collar is designed for placement about bridge piers, abutments and the like, such that the occurrence of scour causes descent of the collar. This descent is carefully monitored against the initial reference point using one of two systems: a magnetic detecting probe unit or a magnetic switch array. The probe unit utilizes a graduated cable with a magnet detector mounted at one end and a signalling device at the other. The switch array system employs electrical components which are selectively activated with the descent of the collar, permitting periodic readings of the arrays various electrical properties to reveal the new depth. A wide variety of accessory systems may be used in conjunction with the present invention to permit remote monitoring, visual, audible or other warning signals, and data storage and control.

Abstract: A protective bumper assembly (20) for a dock post (14) includes an elastomeric pad (24) that is wrapped about the post (14). Tie straps (34) have one end (36) adhered to the pad (24) and a distal end (38) that is long enough to wrap about the post (14) and overlie the adhered end (36). The straps (34) mount two complementary fasteners (37) and (39) to secure the distal end to the adhered end and retain the pad (24) about the post. A hook (50) is secured onto one of the straps. The hook is sized to storably receive an unused tie line (22) for a boat.

Abstract: A device for protectively encasing wooden piles to reduce marine borer attack, abrasion and other structural damage, comprising: a sheet of flexible plastic wrapped around a pile in a substantially circumferential configuration, where the longitudinal edges of the sheet are placed in an overlapping position; compressible seals attached to both of the horizontal edges of the sheet and to one of the longitudinal edges of the sheet; strap members encompassing the compressible seals of the horizontal edges; a reinforcement member positioned adjacent to the outside longitudinal edge of the sheet; and a plurality of fastening means securing the reinforcement member and the overlapping longitudinal edges to the piling.

Abstract: A method of providing a cathodic protection to an installed pile is disclosed in which a plurality of anodes are provided on a tendon foundation guide assembly which is attached to a lowering unit and lowered to the pile. The tendon foundation guide assembly is attached to the installed pile and at least one of the anodes is electrically connected to the pile. The tendon foundation guide assembly is then separated from the lowering unit. In another aspect of the invention, a tendon foundation guide assembly is disclosed for deployment upon the top of an installed pile for cathodically protecting the pile and a tendon receptacle inside the pile.

Abstract: Synergistic microbicidal compositions are disclosed, comprising 4,5-dichloro-2-n-octyl-3-isothiazolone and one or more known microbicides for more effective, and broader control of microorganisms in various systems.

Abstract: An anti-fouling apparatus and method for retarding the formation of marine plants and animals on marine surfaces submerged in water is disclosed. Telescopically extendable support arm members in the form of pneumatic struts are pivotally mounted on a mounting bracket for selective movement between a first raised position, at which the distal end is raised out of the water, and a second lowered position, at which the distal end is submerged in the water. A selectively energizable water propulsion means, which includes an electrically powered motor and a propeller, is operatively mounted on the support arm member adjacent to the distal end so as to be submerged in the water when the support arm is in the second lowered position.

Abstract: A pile wrapper is in the form of a flexible sheet (1,2) which, when encircling a pile, has two contiguous edges. These have abutments (8) which are urged together by a power tool (13) and fastened, conveniently by nuts (19) and bolts (18). The hoop tension induced in the wrapper resists wave suction forces. The wrapper can have an inner layer (2) containing a water resistant sealant which is forced into intimate contact with the pile as the tension is applied. The wrapper may also be given anti-fouling and cathodic protection properties.

Abstract: A floating breakwater structure that can be positioned adjacent to a boat dock or other area to be shielded from the effect of waves, the structure having a framework supported by floating members to maintain the framework above the water's surface and a plurality of adjacently positioned weighted rectangular concrete slabs pendulously supported into the water from the framework at least along one side of the structure, the concrete slabs being from about 8 to 12 feet in length, from 3 to 6 feet wide and 3 to 8 inches thick.

Abstract: The invention provides an antifouling structure that excels in antifouling performance and durability, dispenses with maintenance work, poses no toxicity problem, and is easily handled. The antifouling structure is in a flexible thin sheet, and comprises a copper alloy and an insulating material layer. The copper alloy has a Be content of 0.2 to 2.8% by weight. The insulating layer material, for instance, is made of at least one of methyl methacrylate-modified natural rubber, nitrile rubber and chlorinated rubber. This rubber is dissolved in a suitable solvent for primer or other treatment, coated on the required surface area of the copper alloy layer, and dried to obtain an insulating material layer having a given thickness.

Abstract: A method to reduce vortex-induced vibrations in subsea risers is provided wherein a flexible fairing is provided surrounding the riser. The flexible fairing will reduce displacements caused by vortex induced vibrations regardless of the direction of the current and will be tolerant of marine life growth.

Abstract: A wall assembly suitable for use on ships and offshore drilling platforms and in similar applications requiring fire resistance, low weight, and strength. The wall assembly includes a light weight principal panel having first and second fiber reinforced polymer skin layers joined to a core, and a metal frame adhered to the skin layers without any through fasteners. The frame preferably includes a first metal plate adhered to the first skin layer and a second metal plate adhered to the second skin layer and welded to the first metal plate. The frame is preferably welded to a metal support structure. The wall assembly may be used as a deck, floor, roof, vertical wall, gate or door.

Abstract: A method for killing zebra mussels from a bottom surface of a waterway and from the surfaces of watercraft, docks, pilings and similar facilities located within a waterway. The surfaces to be treated are isolated in a batch of water enclosed within a chamber. The isolated batch of water is thereafter heated to a temperature lethal to the zebra mussels and held at that temperature for a sufficient time to kill the zebra mussels. The isolated batch of water and the treated surface are thereafter released from the chamber and the isolated state.

Abstract: A system of corrosion protection and a method of applying the protection on items to be used or being used in marine environments and otherwise susceptible to the deleterious effects of erosion and/or corrosion. The protection is comprised of a coating formed of a polyamine converter and an epoxy resin that can be applied either to virgin metal or to pre-existing metallic items immersed below sea level and a rigid cladding such as fiberglass reinforced pipe encapsulating the coating. Where on site restoration of an item is to be performed, some or all of the coating and cladding application can be conducted underwater by preceding the applications with an abrasive blasting of the surface to be protected.

Abstract: A method and material for the manufacturing or retrofitting of fluid transport systems. The material chosen for the lining, or the pipe itself, will be selected based on physical properties such as a high impact strength and a low coefficient of friction. The low coefficient of friction will be essential to prevent the initial adhesion of foreign substances to the inner surface of pipes. In particular, an improved pipe composite will be useful in the lining or construction of water intake pipes where there is a well-recognized problem of the buildup of foreign substances including algae and other marine microorganisms. Therefore, by preventing buildup, the present invention will provide a more economical and efficient method to maintain the overall piping system.

Abstract: System for loading at sea comprising a submersible conveying structure and anchoring device for the conveying structure. The loading system includes a bottom or base structure disposed on a sea bed and a maneuvering arrangement for bringing the conveying structure into a receptacle provided in the bottom or base structure.

Abstract: A floating production and storage facility (FPS) or "floating atoll" comprises a very large tension leg platform (TLP) having a regular or irregular polygonal horizontal cross-section (including a circle) and having a centralized opening (moonpool) therethrough. The floater has wave transparent attributes, stanchions sited interior of the moonpool adapted to receive risers and maintain the risers within a limited horizontal zone with reference to the vessel while allowing vertical freedom of motion with reference to the vessel. It also has risers sited in the stanchions and connected to the bottom of the body of water upon which the TLP floats. The risers have sufficient buoyancy means below but near the surface of the water to tension the risers into vertical position, and can have additional buoyancy means distributed over much of their length. The floater can have large oil storage means, and can be moored by lateral mooring as well as the TLP tendons.