Mooring and
Anchoring
Background
Mooring and anchoring systems are critical components in a floating offshore wind farm which ensure station keeping and stability of the platforms. The ability for project developers to design, procure, own, operate and maintain these systems cost effectively and reliably will be vital to reducing the cost of floating offshore wind both directly (reduced CAPEX) and indirectly (reduced OPEX, insurance etc).
Photo of the WindFloat Atlantic project courtesy of Principle Power/Ocean Winds
Technical Challenges and Opportunities
Mooring systems are usually in remote locations with high wind speeds, varying bathymetry and water depths which creates a harsh marine environment. They are subject to complex static and dynamic mechanical loading. Site conditions for FOW in the UK also present some particular challenges for these systems. The relatively shallower water of many UK FOW sites (60-120m) means loading is increased, and keeping platform excursions to an acceptable level is challenging due to the limited space between the substructure and the seabed.
Whilst the general principles of the design and specification of these systems are well understood, the specifics of the system design process, representative testing and qualification approaches are complex and a number of knowledge gaps exist.
UK Supply Chain Opportunity
Existing supply chain capacity in certain areas is limited with respect to the scale of supply required for the FOW industry from 2030. There is a requirement for the industry to work together to develop improved design, testing and qualification approaches (including associated infrastructure), address specific knowledge gaps and in turn support the development and qualification of a range of suitable technologies from a capable and competitive supply chain.
Photo courtesy of Steisdahl Offshore.
What are we doing to help?
The FOW CoE has done extensive previous work on Mooring and Anchoring Systems, including examining state of the art technology, potential design requirements, market projections, and potential qualification frameworks.
OUR PRIORITIES ARE TO:
- Support qualification of key components and technology development
- Increase supply chain capability, capacity and competitiveness in key technology areas
- Close knowledge gaps through research
Technology Development & Qualification:
This strand of work is intended to accelerate the development and qualification of critical floating offshore wind technologies, and in turn reduce the cost and risk associated with deploying these technologies as part of the first large scale floating offshore wind projects. See below for any live opportunities to apply for support.
Current Activities
We are currently working with Bexco Ropes towards the qualification of their Nylon Manta-Line product. Together, we are following the technology qualification framework within the Bureau Veritas (BV) guidelines, culminating in a BV-approved technology qualification plan (TQP) available in early 2024.
Public reports
At the FOW CoE we believe there is a need to share certain information with the wider supply chain in order to support the collective success of the industry. As such we publish public reports wherever possible. Such reports from our previously delivered portfolio of work on Moorings & Anchors include the below:
There aren’t currently any open application windows for opportunities associated with this Strategic Programme. Please check back in again soon.
Photo of the Kincardine Offshore Wind Farm project courtesy of Principle Power
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