The loss of a jack-up under tow

The events leading up to the capsize and total loss of a jack-up under tow are briefly summarised. The investigation of the causes of this are described in some detail. It involved model tests, finite element analysis, stability calculations, a determination of motions by analysis of newsreel videos taken at the time and close examination of an underwater film taken of the wreckage.

The likely sequence of structural failures leading up to the capsize is established. These are summarised and the lessons learnt from the enquiry highlighted.