Synthetic-Fiber Mooring Lines for Deepwater Floating Production Facilities

The objective was to assess the feasibility of using synthetic-fiber mooring lines for deepwater floating production facilities. The project was a Joint Industry Project (JIP). The research consisted of a laboratory testing program to look at the engineering characteristics of synthetic-fiber mooring lines and the durability and fatigue resistance of their connections. The project conducted a long-term field program to determine environmental effects. A full-scale synthetic-fiber mooring line was installed as part of the mooring system for the Placid's deepwater floating production facility and inspection periodically. At the end of the testing program, the line was removed and subjected to strength and fatigue tests.