Novel technology "Anchor Trials" for renewable energy

Project Description

The work will include geotechnical site characterization studies, such as seabed sampling (e.g. vibrocore) and testing (preferably using CPT tests), and trials of the novel "Flying Wing" anchor proposed as an innovative and sustainable foundation solution for offshore wind developments. The Flying Wing Anchor is designed so as to optimize the efficiency and significantly reduce costs for an offshore foundation in deep water (>40m). FlyingAnchor is a steel plate shaped like a flying wing aircraft, maximizing its aerodynamic efficiency. It is installed by dropping it from above the sea floor with its nose facing down, like a torpedo pile. The anchor will be monitored during free-fall through the water column and subsequent penetration into the underlying soft seabed sediments. The anchor will then key into the ground and will be pulled out using a winch assembly while the load and displacement is monitored. During this process the project team is primarily hoping to: 1) Demonstrate the practical application of the flying wing concept offshore, 2) Explore the soil-structure interaction behaviour of a Flying Wing Anchor during free-fall installation, mooring line loading and recovery, 3) Develop a detailed understanding of the anchor behaviour in various soil types and develop design procedures to facilitate the anchor in becoming a useful foundation concept for offshore wind energy sites with a variety of substrate conditions.