Abstract
A numerical model associated with wave–current interactions with a moored flexible cylindrical cage was developed based on the finite element method. An analytical model was formulated under the linearised wave theory and small structural response, and a semi-analytical solution was obtained using the Fourier Bessel series solution and least squares approximation method, along with a matching technique. The numerical results from the finite element analysis of the horizontal displacements for different design parameters under a uniform current were compared with the analytical model solutions. It was seen that they had a good level of agreement with their results. The effects of different current speeds and time on the cage shapes were analysed from the finite element results. Further, the mooring forces on the flexible cage for different values of the cage height and cage radius were also presented. The comparison of the results indicated that the numerical model results could be used with confidence in the design of a flexible cylindrical net cage for applications to offshore aquacultures.
Highlights
A numerical model associated with wave–current interactions with a moored flexible cylindrical cage was developed based on the finite element method
The numerical results from the finite element analysis (FEA) and analytical model of the horizontal displacement of the flexible cylindrical net cage in the presence of a current are compared for different mooring stiffness, heights of the cage, and radii of the cage to check the accuracy of the FEA model
A numerical model based on the FEA and an analytical model under the potential flow theory associated with a moored flexible cylindrical net cage in the presence of a current were presented
Summary
Due to the decreasing of fish stocks and the increased need of aquacultures, there is a need to further develop aquacultures offshore. Models that allow the analysis of floating flexible net-type fish cages with a mooring system under the effects of waves and the current are very important. In order to model a floating flexible net-type fish cage, the dynamic response and structural analysis are of great importance to ensure the safety of the flexible marine cages. A strength analysis of aquaculture net cages under currents from 0.1 to 0.5 m/s was performed in [7], and it was identified that the forces on the bottom panels could reach the design capacity Based on both experimental and numerical models, the deformation of the cage with different solidities was studied in [8]. Pressure sensors were used to measure the Academic Editor: Alejandro J
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