Numerical Study on Torpedo Anchor

TLDR: In this article, the effect of loading direction (0° −90°), diameter ratio (1.02, 1.07 and 1.13), and fin ratio (0, 25, 50 and 75%) on the performance of a torpedo anchor was evaluated.

Abstract: Anchor is used from the olden times to support the vessels either on/near the shore or deep in the oceans. These anchors are not only capable of mooring normal vessels but also the floating offshore structures. Earlier using Plaxis 3D, the effect of the remolded zone, amount of ballast, tilt angle and fin configuration are studied numerically and compared to established theoretical and field studies. In this paper, the parameter study was extended by considering the effect of loading direction (0°–90°), diameter ratio (1.02, 1.07 and 1.13) and fin ratio (0, 25, 50 and 75%) of torpedo anchor. All the above-mentioned parameters are evaluated for the varying ballast and fin configurations. From this study, it was concluded from the effect of loading direction that torpedo anchor is well suited for catenary mooring system. Since they are good enough to hold the horizontal load while offering minimal vertical resistances enables poor performance in taut mooring systems. If semi-taut mooring lines are used, then mooring lines angles at the mud line should not be more than 60°.