A new design for tension leg platforms ( TLPs ) can address water depth limitations in offshore industries . TLPs are known for their ability to support steel catenary risers in relatively shallow water , but their feasibility beyond 1,600 metres to 1,800 metres has never been established because of challenges in deep drilling . However , a study conducted at the Deep Offshore Technology International Conference in Houston , Texas concluded that a TLP 's limit is not just defined by water depth , but is also a function of climate and environmental factors .
A new design for tension leg platforms (TLPs) may address water depth limitations in offshore industries. TLPs are favoured for their ability to support steel catenary risers in relatively shallow water, but their feasibility beyond 1,600 metres to 1,800 metres has never been established because of challenges in deep water. However, a study presented at the Deep Offshore Technology International Conference in Houston, Texas showed that a TLP's limit is not just defined by water depth, but is also a function of displacement and environmental conditions.