A REVIEW OF THE OFFSHORE ENVIRONMENT--25 YEARS OF PROGRESS

Since the first offshore drilling platform was erected in 1947, new technology in the design and development of offshore platforms has come about, with the result that larger platforms operating in much deeper water have been able to be constructed with the confidence that these structures will be capable of withstanding severe ocean storm forces. This paper traces the growth of knowledge for both the ocean environment, and, to a greater extent, of the technology developed for the construction of fixed platforms. In achieving this objective, the paper includes discussions of technological advancements in the fields of: wave heights and factors limiting their height; wave loads on structures, including theoretical development, experimental measurements, and calculation method advancements; foundation design with respect to piling capacity and soil strength properties; and environmental programs.