Riser protection nets-design considerations

Riser protection nets (RPN) for offshore oil production platforms present some very interesting design considerations. These nets are stretched between the columns of the platform to arrest encroaching supply vessels or other floating objects and to prevent them from striking the risers. Of particular interest is the application of relatively new types of synthetic fiber rope that is the main component of the net. This paper focuses on the role played in the design by these ropes but also includes other design considerations.