Marine Mooring Plate

In marine aquaculture mooring systems, the hot-dip galvanized mooring plate is a critical component that consolidates forces from multiple directions through shackles. Careful observation reveals two fundamental designs: one with a simple central bore hole, and another with a vertically welded reinforcing pipe inside that hole. Why these two designs exist is a key question for system reliability. 

1. Why Two Designs? The Core Issue is "Shackle Wobble"

Mooring plate come in various specifications, such as thicknesses of 26mm, 40mm, and 70mm, MBL ratings of 60T, 90T, and 150T, and configurations of 12 or 16 holes. The core distinction between the two designs addresses different load conditions, primarily solving the problem of shackle stability within the central hole. 

The Design WITH the Welded Pipe: Engineered to Eliminate Wobble

This design specifically targets scenarios with strong currents or dynamic loads where shackle movement is a concern. For instance, when system requirements dictate the use of a thinner disc (e.g., 26mm) despite significant forces, a simple bore hole may not provide sufficient grip and support against the shackle pin. This can lead to wear-inducing play and wobble.

The vertically welded pipe extends the effective engagement height of the Aqua shackle pin. It acts like a sturdy sleeve, significantly increasing local thickness and overall rigidity at the connection point. This "locks" the shackle in place, ensures smooth force transfer, and is crucial for long-term durability in demanding conditions. 

The Design WITHOUT the Welded Pipe: The Cost-Effective Standard

This is the standard, economical design. It is perfectly suitable for sheltered areas with calm currents and stable conditions, or where the mooring system's weight and configuration inherently provide sufficient stability. Here, the base thickness of the disc adequately supports the shackle, making the added pipe unnecessary. It offers reliable strength at a lower cost and with simpler fabrication and maintenance. 

2. How to Choose Mooring Plate? Four Key Decision Factors

The choice isn't about which is universally better, but which is optimal for your specific conditions. 

1.  Assess Water Flow & Waves: Is your site in an open, high-current, or frequently turbulent area? If yes, the reinforced design with the pipe is generally the safer choice.

2.  Analyze System Configuration: Does your mooring design have specific weight requirements, or use dynamic setups like single-point mooring that are prone to movement? The fixed-pipe design better handles complex forces in such systems.

3.  Consider Stock Sensitivity: Are you farming high-value species sensitive to net pen movement or turbulence? Platform stability is paramount, favoring the reinforced design.

4.  Evaluate Budget: For calm environments with hardy species, the standard design provides reliable functionality with a lower initial investment. 

Conclusion

In summary, the mooring plate with the welded pipe is a reinforced version for high-stress, high-stability needs in challenging environments. The plate without the pipe is the standard version, an economical and fit-for-purpose solution for milder conditions. 

At SMEOCEAN, analyzing mooring systems is our specialty，the final selection should be a practical decision based on a comprehensive evaluation of your **specific farm environment, system design, and budget. Understanding this fundamental design principle is essential for building a safe, durable, and cost-effective mooring system.

More Links:

Deep-Sea Aquaculture Anchoring Solutions

Aquaculture Buoy Mooring Design Guide

Storm-Resistant Anchoring Systems for Offshore Aquaculture Cages