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.
PO494: Comparative assessment of seabed disturbance from subsea cable installation: dynamic positioning versus anchor-assisted operations in a nature sensitive area
Theofano Koutrouveli, Senior Engineer, Business Development Manager, IMDC
Abstract
Subsea power cable installation is essential for offshore wind farm development, but the associated operations can disturb the seabed and trigger environmental concerns, particularly in shallow and sensitive areas. This study presents a comparative assessment of seabed disturbance for two installation strategies: (i) a cable-laying vessel operating on dynamic positioning (DP), and (ii) anchor-assisted installation, in which the main vessel is moored by anchors while two tugboats operate in DP for maneuvering and anchor handling. The analysis combined empirical methods and advanced numerical modelling. Initially, the PIANC guidelines were applied to estimate propeller jet velocities, scour depths, and eroded volumes. However, while these formulas can provide fast estimates, they cannot represent the complexity of vessel–seabed interaction or the combined effect of multiple thrusters. To overcome these limitations, additional three-dimensional computational fluid dynamics (CFD) simulations were performed to capture velocity fields and bed shear stresses generated by vessel thrusters in shallow water. These outputs were linked with empirical scour prediction formulas to evaluate seabed erosion under both sand and mud conditions. Anchor disturbance was estimated using geotechnical soil data and penetration models. Results indicate that DP thrusters of the cable-laying vessel under specific weather conditions generate intense but highly localised scour, while anchor-assisted operations with tug support result in a broader footprint of seabed disturbance. The two tugboat thrusters operating in DP contribute significantly to the overall impact, whereas anchors cause penetration and drag effects that extend disturbance along the route. This combined methodology provides a reliable comparison of strategies, demonstrates how CFD complements existing guidelines, offering practical insights for developers, contractors, and regulators. It offers a robust framework for selecting cable installation strategies that balance operational feasibility with environmental responsibility, ensuring offshore wind projects minimise seabed disturbance while meeting technical requirements..
No recording available for this poster.
