Marine Anchoring
Marine anchoring provides reliable and environmentally responsible solutions for securing floating and submerged structures such as pontoons, marker buoys, and underwater installations. Designed for use in both saltwater and freshwater environments, these systems offer strong, corrosion-resistant performance without the need for traditional concrete foundations.
This application is particularly important in the marine and environmental engineering sectors, where stability, durability, and minimal ecological disturbance are key. Vulcan Earth Anchors and other mechanical ground anchors provide a sustainable alternative for projects where anchoring must be achieved safely and efficiently, even in challenging underwater or tidal conditions.
Why Use Vulcan Earth Anchors?
Traditional anchoring methods typically rely on heavy concrete blocks or drilled and grouted systems, which can be difficult to transport, install, and maintain. These methods often disturb sea beds, contribute to contamination of waterways, and result in a higher carbon footprint due to the use and transport of concrete.
Using Vulcan Earth Anchors or other mechanical ground anchors provides several advantages:
Reduced Environmental Impact: Minimal seabed disturbance and no need for concrete, helping preserve marine habitats.
Lightweight and Easy to Transport: Lower weight compared to concrete blocks reduces logistical effort and carbon emissions.
Rapid Installation: Can be installed quickly using handheld or machine-driven tools, with minimal site disruption.
Adaptable Design: Suitable for both permanent and temporary marine applications.
Durability and Corrosion Resistance: Manufactured from marine-grade stainless steel (typically 316) to withstand long-term underwater exposure.
Lower Lifetime Cost: Reduced material and installation expenses, combined with a long design life, offer strong economic value.
How Our Products Are Used for This Application
Vulcan Earth Anchors can be installed in marine environments either manually or mechanically, depending on the depth and site accessibility. All installation equipment can be marinized, meaning it is sealed and protected for underwater use. Anchors are driven into the seabed using hydraulic or handheld tools and proof-loaded to ensure the required holding capacity is achieved.
Key design factors include:
Load Requirements: Vary depending on the size and purpose of the structure being secured (e.g., buoy, pontoon, or floating system).
Ground Conditions: Soil and sediment type influence anchor selection and embedment depth.
Water Type: Saltwater or freshwater environments affect corrosion rates and material selection.
Design Life: Components can be specified for short-term or permanent use.
Connection Details: Anchor terminations and fittings are designed according to the attachment method required for the structure.
For tidal or shallow environments, installation can often occur during low tide without divers. For deeper applications, divers may be required to guide installation and ensure proper connection of components.
Which Products Are Used for This Application
A range of Vulcan Earth Anchors can be used depending on the scale, load, and environmental conditions of the project.
Small to Medium Anchors: Ideal for marker buoys or lightweight floating installations.
Medium to Large Anchors: Used for pontoons, underwater greenhouses, and heavier marine infrastructure.
All anchors can be supplied in 316 stainless steel for marine-grade protection and longevity. Assemblies can include customised wire tendons, load-locking systems, and termination fittings to suit specific design requirements.
Common Applications We Support
Anchor Systems International’s marine anchoring solutions can be applied to a wide range of environments and structures, including:
Marker buoys
Pontoons and floating walkways
Underwater research structures (e.g., greenhouses or observation platforms)
Floating docks and pontoons
Submerged sleds or guides for vessel capture and direction
Coastal and estuarine installations
Our systems are adaptable for both temporary and permanent anchoring requirements in saltwater and freshwater environments.
FAQs
01
What are the main benefits of using mechanical ground anchors instead of concrete blocks?
Mechanical ground anchors provide equal or greater holding capacity with far less environmental impact. They are quicker to install, easier to transport, and eliminate the contamination risk associated with concrete in waterways.
02
Can these anchors be used in saltwater conditions?
Yes. Our systems can be fully manufactured in marine-grade 316 stainless steel to ensure long-term durability and resistance to corrosion in saltwater environments.
03
Is diving always required for installation?
Not always. In shallow or tidal locations, installation can often take place during low tide without divers. However, for deeper or permanently submerged applications, a dive team is typically required.
Get to know more about the product
The Vulcan Earth Anchor range was designed and developed by Anchor Systems (International) Ltd to provide a simple, reliable, and cost-effective ground anchoring solution for a wide variety of applications.
Our brochure includes detailed product information, performance data, installation guidance, and examples of real-world uses across multiple sectors.
If you require technical specifications or design advice for your specific project, please get in touch with our team.
Experts in innovative foundation systems
From rail and highways to solar farms and temporary structures, Anchor Systems deliver engineered ground anchoring and foundation solutions that simplify installation and reduce environmental impact.
Zero concrete, zero waiting time
Easy installation with hand-held or hydraulic tools
Reusable, relocatable, and sustainable
Designed, tested, and manufactured in the UK