Definition(s)
Stab-in and hinge-over method
This method (see Figure A.26) involves vertically lowering the flowline or umbilical end to the seabed and locking it to a subsea structure. The lay vessel then moves off location, laying the line to its installed configuration. As the vessel moves away the line will hinge over and be stroked into its final position, prior to the connection being made using a mechanical or hydraulic connector.
If installing rigid pipe, the lay vessel may need to be equipped with motion (heave) compensation devices to reduce the chances for buckling or overtensioning the pipe once it is locked to the subsea structure.
Source: API RP 17A, Design and Operation of Subsea Production Systems—General Requirements and Recommendations, Fourth Edition, Reaffirmed 2011. Global Standards