Anchor System...

[vegeotto]

Hi, sorry if this is the wrong place to pose this question but i need some help in an engineering problem. Well for the project we are constructing a stationary 4x4 buoy which is expected to weigh about 75 kilograms. This buoy is going to be sitting in the middle of a small tranquil lake. We aren't familiar with anchors but i was wondering if anyone can help me select an anchor system or head me in the right direction?

We were thinking of 3 anchors at aproximately 120 degrees apart for maximum stability. Since this is a fairly small floatation device, with little current/wind, then heavy anchors may not be necessary? Originally i was looking into moorings but i realized that our conditions aren't harsh at all. We are also on a budget but i'm not sure how much we're going to be spending on the anchor system...Any help would be greatly appreciated...thanks!

 

[QC]

Re: Anchor System...

Well anchors aren't about weight, they are about their ability to bury themselves if they are tugged on. The trick to anchors for your project would be to get them set properly. You could use boats for this, but not sure how else it could be accomplished. You need to run the total length of the line, chain and anchor out to about five times depth. They need to be pulled on very hard toward your buoy location to get them set. Then you will need to cinch the buoy down to all three at the same time, so that they are all pulling straight . . . Otherwise if pulled sideways, they may pull out.

Personally, for what you describe, I'd just want a big flippin' block of concrete straight down.

 

[stevieray]

Re: Anchor System...

With no tide or current to deal with, I agree with QC - use one straight down, about the same weight as the buoy.

 

[tashasdaddy]

Re: Anchor System...

get 3 milk crates, line them with card board, fill with concrete, with an eye to attach line.

 

[Boomyal]

Re: Anchor System...

get 3 milk crates, line them with card board, fill with concrete, with an eye to attach line.

Ah! The old milk crate trick. It works every time.
Just don't get your ankle caught in the cement.

 

[tiller7104]

Re: Anchor System...

We use well cleaned engine blocks on the river here ! We have a local engine builder that has a machine that cleans them with steam and no chemicals. There is a 454 at the bottom right now with a float for our tie ups! Not sure if DEP likes them but we sure do!

 

[Bondo]

Re: Anchor System...

A 1/2 Dozen 10" Concrete Blocks,+ 10' of 3/8" Chain will Easily hold your 150lb. Bouy,..........

Even If the Wind Blows,................ Hard............

Attach the Chain to 1 of the Blocks,+ Thread it Thru the rest,..........
Then just add whatever Rope necessary to reach the Surface,+ 10'.................

 

[blouderback]

Re: Anchor System...

Yep, a few cinder blocks oughta do the trick, or certainly the milkcrate/concrete thing should work too.