The DEEP DRILLER is being towed at a 20 foot...

The DEEP DRILLER is being towed at a 20 foot...

Question 1 of 2707066636ee728f7522a1c51792b

The DEEP DRILLER is being towed at a 20 foot draft. Vessel motions are within acceptable limits, but the waves begin to hit the horizontal braces. You should __________.

Question 1 of 27070

Q

The DEEP DRILLER is being towed at a 20 foot draft. Vessel motions are within acceptable limits, but the waves begin to hit the horizontal braces. You should __________.

🔍 Key Concepts

• stability and sea-keeping of towed offshore rigs • effect of draft vs. wave zone on structural loading • operational methods to reduce wave impact without creating new risks

💭 Think About

• Think about where the horizontal braces are located relative to the waterline and the typical wave zone. What happens if you increase draft significantly? • Which option changes the relative motion between the tow and the sea state without greatly altering the rig’s stability or creating new structural stresses? • Which actions could actually worsen the rig’s motions or loading on the tow gear, even if they sound like they might ‘smooth the ride’?

✅ Before You Answer

• Identify whether ballasting deeper will likely move the braces into or out of the main wave impact zone. • Consider if shortening the tow wire generally increases or decreases dynamic loads on the tow and towing vessel. • Ask which option is the least drastic change that directly addresses the problem of waves hitting the braces.