Method and means for laying an underwater pipeline

Apparatus for laying pipe underwater comprising

• pipe support means including a longitudinal portion for positioning above a pipe section and a plurality of fastening means for fastening a section of pipe to said longitudinal portion, said pipe support means further including seat portions at each end of said longitudinal portion, and
• support frame means for positioning underwater generally about the location for a section of pipe, said support frame means including first and second transverse members each having a saddle means for receiving a seat portion of said pipe support means, a plurality of extendable vertical legs for engaging the underwater terrain, means for moving said extendable vertical legs vertically, means for axially moving said pipe support means on said support frame means, and means for moving said saddle means on said transverse members.

A method of laying sections of pipe underwater comprising the steps of

• providing a support frame on underwater terrain and generally about a location for a section of pipe,
• fastening a section of pipe to a longitudinal pipe support, and
• lowering said longitudinal pipe support and section of pipe into fully supported engagement with said support frame.