Evaluation of Structural Steel Castings for the Hutton Tension Leg Platform

The use of steel castings as major structural elements of the Hutton tension leg platform represents a relatively novel concept. In order to ensure that these castings would provide adequate service, an extensive testing program was undertaken to assess variations in chemical composition and mechanical properties of prototype castings. In addition, a rigorous acceptance procedure for production castings was developed. The results of these programs showed that steel castings possessed adequate strength and toughness. Also, a welding procedure was developed which consistently produced sound weld repair and satisfactory joints between cast and plate steel.