Jetted helical anchors in sand: a torque reducing technique




Jetted helical anchors in sand: a torque reducing technique


Jetting is a proven technique for reducing installation force during pile installation, although it can lead to reduced axial and lateral capacity due to soil disturbance. This paper explores the innovative application of jetting to helical anchors, which are a promising, efficient and environmentally friendly foundation solution for anchoring floating renewable energy devices. A pilot campaign of centrifuge tests in sand was conducted to assess how varying jetting flow rates impact the installation torque and subsequent pull-out capacity. Results demonstrate that jetting can lower the installation torque required for helical anchors compared to non-jetted installation, with only a moderate reduction in ultimate tensile capacity. These proof-of-concept tests underscore the potential of jetted helical anchor installations as a solution to overcome high torque demands, thus enhancing the feasibility of helical anchors as reliable offshore anchoring solutions.



Juliano Nietiedt; Phil G. Watson; Christophe Gaudin; Conleth O'loughlin; Daniele Bertalot; Scott Whyte; Mike Rattley; Mike Brown


5th International Symposium on Frontiers in Offshore Geotechnics (ISFOG2025)



13 - Developmental foundation and anchoring concepts: hybrid foundations, ring anchors, helical piles, torpedo, shared anchoring



https://doi.org/10.53243/ISFOG2025-12