Design Criteria for Single-Point Mooring Terminals

Single-point moorings (SPMs) have come to be accepted as a logical choice for offshore berths for large tankers. The type most commonly used is that in which a single-buoy mooring (SBM) is anchored to the seabed with long catenaries of chain. Site selection for SPMs is governed above all by safety of operation of the tanker in maneuvering and mooring. Site conditions and marine environment play a major part in judging this safety. Detailed information is required on bottom conditions, sea levels, currents, winds, waves, and visibility. In the design of a specific SBM system, the main parameter is the mooring load. Determination of this load requires model tests, since reliable design formulas are not yet available. SBM can be operated without causing pollution to the surrounding coastline and without detrimental effect on the local marine environment.