METHOD AND SYSTEM FOR UNDERWATER PIPELINE TUNNEL ASSEMBLING Russian patent published in 2005 - IPC

FIELD: hydraulic structures, particularly for laying underwater pipelines.

SUBSTANCE: method involves transporting pipeline tunnel sections by water to pipeline laying site; submerging thereof; placing pipeline tunnel sections on underwater piers with the use of flexible ties; sealing pipeline tunnel sections. Tunnel sections have nearly zero floatability. Pipeline tunnel sections are submerged and put on piers by flexible ties. Then pipeline tunnel sections are pushed in docking unit of previous submerged section with the use of submarine and sealed from inside and outside along with connection of inner service lines. After finishing pipeline tunnel sections assemblage entry and exit tunnels are secured to pipeline tunnel. System for underwater pipeline tunnel sections assembling includes underwater pipeline tunnel mounted on underwater piers and formed of separate sections having design lengths. Pipeline tunnel sections are divided into two chambers by horizontal partition. Transport path is arranged in upper chamber. Lower section is divided into several cavities by air-tight partitions for laying inner pipelines. Underwater pipeline tunnel sections are formed of two thick-walled shells of steel plates or titanium alloy. Longitudinal partitions are mounted between shells and secured along perimeter thereof. Longitudinal partitions serve as pipelines and stiffening ribs. Pipeline tunnel sections are laid on underwater permanent and temporary piers. Upper pier parts have bases of semicircular or parabolic shape. Pier part dimensions exceed that of pipeline tunnel sections.

EFFECT: increased efficiency of pipeline laying and maintenance during multi-purpose usage thereof.

5 cl, 6 dwg