PROVEN PERFORMANCE IN CEMENTED CARBONATES AND CHALLENGING SHELF CONDITIONS
The first deployment of 27mT STEVSHARK®REX drag embedment anchors in Australia has been successfully completed, marking a major milestone for MODU mooring operations in the region. The anchors include an integrated 12mT ballast, bringing the total installed weight to an impressive 39mT.
Installed on the Australian continental shelf, the anchors performed as engineered in cemented carbonate seabed conditions, which are among the most challenging soils for drag embedment systems.
This project confirms both the geotechnical capability and the operational advantages of the STEVSHARK®REX in hard soil environments.
AT A GLANCE
Location: Australian Continental Shelf
Application: MODU mooring anchor installation
Product: STEVSHARK®REX (27mT)
Total Installed Weight: 39mT
Soil Conditions: Cemented carbonates
Proof Loading: 100% success rate
Milestone: First 27mT STEVSHARK®REX deployment in Australia
CHALLENGE
Australian shelf conditions are renowned for cemented carbonate soils. In such environments, conventional drag anchors may struggle to achieve sufficient penetration and reliable embedment.
The STEVSHARK®REX represents more than 25 years of hard-soil experience, incorporating enhanced geometry, improved structural strength, and optimized penetration behavior. The anchor has been developed and tested to consistently perform in complex layered soils where reliable embedment is critical.
TECHNICAL SOLUTION
For this campaign, Delmar applied an analytical model to estimate the Ultimate Holding Capacity (UHC) under partial-penetration scenarios typical of cemented carbonates. The methodology was calibrated using Australian installation data and aligned with MMATW expectations, supporting a rigorous risk-managed approach.
The result was predictable anchor behaviour and reliable holding performance in demanding seabed conditions.
EXECUTION HIGHLIGHTS
Beyond holding capacity, the 27mT STEVSHARK®REX demonstrated clear operational efficiencies during handling and installation.
Deck handling and connection
The anchor's optimized geometry facilitated easier shackle connections and enabled smooth movement toward the A-frame compared to previously deployed anchor classes.
Smooth A-frame deployment
Deployment through the A-frame was notably efficient. The 27mT anchors passed over the AHV stern roller without interruption, improving installation flow and reducing operational delays.
Correct orientation and proof-loading performance
All deployed anchors achieved correct seabed orientation during installation, enabling efficient progression to proof loading. The proof tension tests were completed successfully on all anchors without any unsuccessful attempts, demonstrating reliable holding capacity in cemented carbonate conditions. Observed drag distances were shorter than those recorded for lighter anchor classes, contributing to installation efficiency. A post-installation ROV survey further confirmed full embedment of the anchor in the seabed.
OUTCOMES & LEARNINGS
The successful first application of the 27mT STEVSHARK®REX in Australian waters confirms that drag-embedment anchors can perform reliably in hard, cemented carbonate seabeds.
By combining decades of hard-soil experience, advanced analytical modelling, and refined anchor geometry, the STEVSHARK®REX continues to extend the operational range of drag anchors into previously prohibitive environments.
In Australia's challenging shelf conditions, the 27mT REX has proven both its holding power and its operational efficiency offshore.
NEED PROVEN PERFORMANCE FOR CHALLENGING SOILS?
If your next project requires proven anchor performance in hard or complex seabed conditions, Delmar Systems has the experience, technology, and analytical capability to deliver reliable results.
Contact our experts to get started with more effective mooring.
+1 832 252 7100
sales@delmarsystems.com
