Cuttings Storage Tank Design&Optimization For Ultra-deep-water Semi-submersible Platform

In the design of semi-submersible drilling platform,wet cuttings treatment system is a new method for drilling cuttings treatment which can help improve the drilling efficiency,the operating cost and the competitiveness of semi-submersible drilling platforms in the international market.As core equipment in this system,the cuttings storage tanks can be used to store the cuttings produced in drilling process for a long time,and get rid of the worries about service ship's absence due to bad sea condition,enhance the self-survival and continuous working ability of the platform,and also release the hoisting load of deck crane.Large capacity and number of cuttings storage tanks can make it possible to implement as well as transfer the wet treatment of cuttings in tanks,which therefore improve the utilization rate of storage tanks.Cuttings storage tanks have also the function of storage and disposal of sewage in drilling areas which effectively contribute to platform self-survival and continuous working ability.As a consequence,the cuttings storage tanks are considered playing an important part in the whole system.Focusing on the design and economical evaluation of the cuttings storage tanks,this paper completed following works.Determination of the configuration,size,structural layout,pressure and support of the cuttings storage tank.FEM analysis for strength and modal of the cuttings storage tank to discover the maximum stress and natural frequency of cuttings storage tank.The results shown that there are quite room for upcoming structural optimization.On the basis of minimum strength requirement,the structure is optimized with an objective of lightest weight.The results showed a significant reduction of the order of 13.15%of total structure weight.Suggestion of installation method and procedure for cuttings storage tank.Detailed the testing method,process,files and alternative materials.Based on the analysis of feasibility and economy of the cuttings storage tank,a stripping and unpacking scheme of design and manufacture process is given which expected to bring a significant profit.