New case study: groutless rock anchors for aquaculture infrastructure

Exploring the use of groutless technology in aquaculture infrastructure

Aquaculture farms depend on secure infrastructure to withstand strong currents, tides, and storms. Rock anchors are essential for stabilising pens and barges, preventing drift that could endanger fish stocks, equipment, and farm workers. Traditionally, these anchors are fixed using grout or resin, but this method is labour-intensive, costly, and vulnerable to corrosion in harsh marine environments.

This project explored groutless rock anchors - mechanical systems that lock into drilled rock without grout. These anchors expand into an enlarged section of the drilled hole, creating a secure interlock. The technology promises faster installation, reduced material use, and lower environmental impact, while enabling deployment in deeper, more energetic sites using remotely operated rigs rather than divers.

Valued at almost £100k, the project partners were Schottel Marine Technologies, the University of Dundee, and Gael Force Group.

Schottel first deployed groutless anchors in Orkney for marine renewables. This project assessed their potential for aquaculture by refining the company’s model and testing performance under realistic conditions. Six factors were analysed, including fatigue under cyclic loading, anchor behaviour in different rock types, pre-tensioning effects, and material choices. Simulations revealed complex anchor behaviour and multiple potential failure modes, leading to improved design and two new load conditions.

Key outcomes:

• Enhanced geotechnical modelling for accurate prediction of anchor performance.
• Identification of weaknesses and failure mechanisms, informing future design improvements.
• Validation that groutless anchors can meet aquaculture’s needs for stability and durability in challenging environments.

By enabling farms to operate in deeper, high-energy sites, groutless anchors support Scotland’s ambition to expand aquaculture sustainably. While further research is needed to optimise designs and validate performance across different geological conditions, this project provides a strong foundation for next-generation anchoring systems that are cost-effective, environmentally friendly, and future-proof.

The full title of this project is ‘Exploration of groutless rock anchors to support aquaculture infrastructure’.

Read the case study