Flexibly embedded plate anchor (FEPLA)

Adapting anchor design for floating wind and mixed soil conditions

The FEPLA (flexibly embedded plate anchor) is Acteon’s next-generation anchoring solution for floating offshore wind. Based on proven plate anchor principles, it introduces a new embedment system that works across a wider range of soil types - including sand, clay and mixed layers.

FEPLA anchors are significantly lighter and faster to install than piles, reducing carbon footprint and simplifying logistics. With no need for high bollard pull or anchor proof loading, the FEPLA is ideal for areas with limited geotechnical data or sustainability constraints.

30-50%

Faster installation time than piles

60-70%

Carbon footprint reduction

How the FEPLA works

The FEPLA anchor system uses a hybrid embedment method that combines vibro hammering and impact hammering. This dual-mode approach allows rapid, reliable anchor embedment across a broad range of seabed conditions - from clay to sand and mixed soils. 

The system includes two dedicated plate anchor configurations: 

  • An updated SEPLA-style plate for soft clays
  • A new optimised design for sandy seabeds 

Both anchor types interface with a multi-function follower that can switch between vibro and impact modes depending on soil resistance. This eliminates the need for high bollard pull or deep proof loading, and significantly reduces project risk in areas with limited geotechnical data. 

Once installed, FEPLA anchors can be removed at end-of-life to minimise environmental footprint and support site reuse - making them well-suited to floating wind farms and other low-impact mooring strategies. 

Quite possibly the ideal anchor

The FEPLA hybrid embedment system provides versatility, lower anchoring costs and simplified logistics.

Challenges and benefits icon.

Lowering costs and accelerating installation

The FEPLA reduces installed anchor cost by up to 50%, with installation times up to 30 - 50% faster than piles. No proof loading is required, and each unit installs in half the time of a comparable foundation.

Challenges and benefits icon.

Reducing weight and simplifying logistics

Up to 70% lighter than piles, FEPLA anchors are easier to fabricate and ship. They enable the use of smaller vessels and more local supply chains - reducing time, cost and risk.

Challenges and benefits icon.

Adapting to soil conditions and minimising environmental impact

FEPLA anchors are suitable for a wide range of soil conditions and flexible with varying soil layers, reducing risks associated with limited geotechnical data. Its low-noise installation and removability reduce seabed disruption and carbon footprint by 60-70%. 

Download our poster

Revolutionise mooring systems for floating offshore wind with the FEPLA.

Latest resources

Learn how FEPLA technology is unlocking new possibilities for floating wind moorings, from flexible embedment to lower-impact marine anchoring.

Brochures

09 Feb 2026

Permanent Mooring track record

Our Permanent Mooring Track Record brochure consolidates hundreds of permanent mooring projects across multiple environments, water depths, and asset types and summarises our work scope for each project. By combining advanced engineering, robust anchor technologies, disciplined offshore procedures, and long-term integrity management, we deliver mooring solutions that behave exactly as intended throughout the asset’s life.

Blogs

05 Nov 2025

Offshore construction for FPSOs – delivering margin, speed and certainty

Offshore construction is the work that brings an offshore energy project to life. It’s a chain of interdependent phases: positioning, construction support, and foundation or mooring system installation. Each stage brings its own challenges. While design work may be finalised early, offshore success depends on how well those plans adapt to real-world conditions.

News

03 Nov 2025

FEPLA advances: First geotechnical tests validate offshore solution

Intermoor, Acteon’s Moorings and Anchors business line, has completed the first phase of model testing for its Flexibly Embedded Plate Anchor (FEPLA) at the University of Dundee Geotechnical Engineering Facility.

Talk to our mooring experts

We’re looking for early adopters and pilot opportunities for the FEPLA. If you’re exploring floating wind anchoring options, our team can advise on feasibility, specification and next steps.