Extreme and operational response of an innovative aquaculture system

Introduction

Mariculture Systems commissioned blueOASIS to develop a numerical model capable of evaluating the hydrodynamic response of their aquaculture system under various combinations of environmental loads. The system consists of a moored floating platform coupled with a Cage System Assembly (CSA), where aquaculture operations take place. This CSA system can be submerged under storm conditions for increased structural and fish survivability. A dedicated model was implemented in ORCAFLEX for both modes (CSA up and CSA down) to assess global motions, accelerations, clearances, and loads on the main connectors. This multidisciplinary workflow supports the development of an optimized Front-End Engineering Design (FEED) tailored to a specific site, with the objective of reducing costs while enhancing overall system reliability.

Results

• Refined mooring design of the platform for the local conditions, including the mooring arrangement and shock absorber models.
• Improved clearances between the different elements.