Patent ID: 7588393
Filing Date: 2009-09-15
Classification: B63B,E21B

Abstract:
1. A method for supporting top tension drilling and production risers on a floating vessel using a tensioner assembly above the water line of the floating vessel, comprising: a. attaching at least one hydraulic cylinder on a first end to a first position on a floating vessel and on a second end to a tension frame below the first position; b. forming a fluid connection between the at least one hydraulic cylinder and at least one primary accumulator; c. securing a conductor disposed between a wellhead and a piece of well access equipment to the tension frame; d. centralizing the conductor in an upper conductor guide, the upper conductor guide having an upper guide retaining ring and upper conductor guide wear pad, and a lower conductor guide, the lower conductor guide having an lower guide retaining ring and lower conductor guide wear pad, wherein the conductor is in slidable engagement with the upper connector guide and engagement with the lower connector guide, wherein the upper conductor guide and the lower conductor guide are secured to the floating vessel; e. applying tension to a riser within the conductor using the at least one hydraulic cylinder by applying tension to the riser through the conductor and the tension frame with the hydraulic cylinder, wherein the tension frame is mounted with the conductor and the riser is secured within the conductor such that the conductor pulls the riser when tension is applied to the conductor; and f. wherein the conductor slidably supports top tension drilling and production risers.