Assessment of Helical Anchor Capacity in Marine Clays for Aquaculture Applications

Abstract

The objective of this preliminary study is to demonstrate the anticipated geotechnical and structural demand on helical anchors from inclined mooring line loads from aquaculture installations. For onshore applications, helical anchors are typically designed to withstand axial loads; however, lateral demand contributes to the required structural and geotechnical capacity of helical anchors for aquaculture applications. The results of 3D finite element analyses illustrating the capacity of helical anchors in an estuarine environment for aquaculture applications are presented. The behavior of Maine’s Presumpscot marine clay, characterized from high-quality samples, is used to calibrate soil parameters in the 3D finite-element model. Preliminary recommendations regarding suitability of helical anchors to aquaculture are made based on computed results, as well as recommendations for future work.