The  selection of the type of SUPPORT is very much governed by the Water Depth. This Diagram shows the spectrum of Supports and how the design changes as the depth of water increases. In shallower water fixed structures can be used.  As the water Deepens, these become uneconomic and other non fixed  types are used. These often make use of buoyancy to compensate for the loads from mooring configurations and conductor casings/tubes which hang below. The last SUPPORT shown is an FPSO whcich is shown at the deepest but can also be used at most depths particularly if storage is arequirement. The last SUPPORT to reference is a NON support where the development is sub sea and merely needs surface contact
SUPPORTS Offshore
                                                                           Supports Offshore deals with Module Support in an Offshore location and cover various types both Floating and Fixed.  The Diagram below illustrates the extent of these.

The outlines in the section are given as generalities. To look for a source of detail go to the "Offshore" Magazine   http://www.offshore-mag.com/index.html  series of wall charts which display detail references to FPSO.s FSU,s, Jackets, Towers AHT,s etc. from these it is possible to go to the various companies referenced (Owners, Operators, Engineering Companies, Contractors etc for further detail of modules, supports, field developments etc)
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a general understanding of Modules 
MODULEitus
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General
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Index, Section  2 Supports,
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support swivels button
Supports Hulls Button
Supports Fixed Towers Button
supports Bows button
Supports other Floating Button
2a  Supports Floating, FPSO,s. Deals with existing refurbished tankers and new build.
2b  Supports Swivels, a major subject impacting FPSO Design
2c  Supports Bow, Ideal Hull , a major subject impacting FPSO Design
2d  Supports, Other Designs that have  buoyancy or assistance
2e  Supports  other Fixed Designs
Supports All FPSOs Floaters etc
The Buttons in Level 3 above and yellow below deal with Sections summarized above in the Diagram SUPPORTS Offshore. Supports as a subject also deals with the Restaints they need to comply with.
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Level 2
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