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The AAPG/Datapages Combined Publications Database

AAPG Bulletin

Abstract


Volume: 66 (1982)

Issue: 5. (May)

First Page: 630

Last Page: 630

Title: Evolution of Floating Drilling Systems: ABSTRACT

Author(s): William H. Silcox

Article Type: Meeting abstract

Abstract:

Offshore exploration over the past 30 years has progressed from mud flats to almost 5,000 ft (1,500 m) of water. Exploratory systems for obtaining geologic information have progressed from scuba divers and small ships outfitted for grabbing rock and soil samples from the ocean floor to drill ships over 600 ft (180 m) long capable of maintaining station without anchors. Specialized subsea equipment has been developed from elementary drilling bases with wire rope guidelines to blowout preventer systems weighing over 400,000 lb (181,000 kg) and standing 40 ft (12 m) high which utilize acoustic and television reentry methods. Motion compensation systems are now available which make drilling from a floating vessel as similar to land drilling as is possible from a continuously oving platform. Engineers and the supplier industry continue to develop drilling systems to meet ever-changing environmental conditions.

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Copyright 1997 American Association of Petroleum Geologists