Posters
Come meet the poster presenters to ask them questions and discuss their work
We would like to invite you to come and see the posters at our upcoming conference. The posters will showcase a diverse range of research topics, and will give delegates an opportunity to engage with the authors and learn more about their work. Whether you are a seasoned researcher or simply curious about the latest developments in your field, we believe that the posters will offer something of interest to everyone. So please join us at the conference and take advantage of this opportunity to learn and engage with your peers in industry and the academic community.
PO210: Embedded tether systems in vertically drilled anchors for floating wind.
Rachael Smith, Design and Development Engineer, Reflex Marine
Abstract
Tethered anchor systems for floating offshore wind (FLOW) that are able to safely accommodate high-angle mooring loads provide scope for limiting seabed footprint and environmental impact. This paper presents findings from the development and laboratory testing of an embedded tether system designed to redirect lateral loads into a vertically installed anchor. Through a series of scaled static and cyclic load tests and numerical simulations, we evaluate how the tether profile—specifically its frictional interaction with soil and geometry of embedment—impacts system behaviour. Inverse catenary profiles were analysed to predict transfer of lateral to vertical load as well as load attenuation along the tether body under taut and semi-taut mooring configurations. Test data confirms that tether friction contributes to load dissipation prior to transmission to the anchor, reducing peak loads transferred to the anchor head and enabling reductions in required anchor resistance. This architecture supports smaller, more efficient anchor designs and has potential implications for fatigue performance and long-term reliability of mooring systems. By allowing vertical installation from a floating vessel and enabling efficient load path management, the proposed system enhances installation flexibility in variable geologies, whilst also simplifying mooring integration by limiting the need for large seabed footprints or drag embedment. This work offers a novel approach to tether-anchor integration for FLOW and supports further refinement of design guidelines for embedded mooring systems in challenging seabed conditions.
No recording available for this poster.
