All-Weather Tanker Terminal For Cook Inlet, Alaska

This paper describes the design and construction of a 30,000 DWT to 60,000 DWT capacity tanker loading facility constructed in Cook Inlet, Alaska for year-round operations. Particular emphasis is placed on the environmental conditions and resulting design criteria which led to the conception of the unique structure. Large diameter steel tubes, supported by underwater bracing, were used as the main structural members which extended through the ice zone. A movable fender system was designed to remain a few feet above the water level and thus provide a uniform fendering capability at all tidal levels without exposure to ice damage. The dock components were prefabricated in large units to reduce on-site work to a minimum.