Gravity base structure

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A gravity base structure (GBS) is a support structure held in place by gravity. A common application is for offshore oil drilling rigs. GBSs for offshore drilling rigs are often constructed in Norwegian fjords. A protected area with sufficient depth is preferred for construction. GBSs intended for offshore oil platforms are constructed of steel bar reinforced concrete, often with tanks or cells which can be used to control the buoyancy of the finished GBS. When completed, GBSs are towed to their intended location and sunk. The platform structure which a GBS supports is called the topsides.