Centrifuge Testing of Offshore Filters

This paper presents original centrifuge tests performed to study the interaction between clay soils and various filter types proposed for use in the under-base pumping system on the Yolla A Platform foundations. The experimental device described allows a "suction" to be applied behind the face of the filter, and to study potential for (a) penetration of clay through the filter, and (b) blockage of the filter. Results have shown that tapered wire mesh filters may (at least partially) block during penetration into the clay, but that these could be unblocked by application of moderate pressures inside the filter.