Steel Pipe Application: Mooring Dolphins

A mooring is any permanent structure to which a vessel may be secured. A dolphin is a marine structure that extends above the water level and is not attached to shore. Mooring dolphins, therefore, are fixed marine structures to which boats can be moored, and are typically installed in areas where the number of ships is greater than can be accommodated by the length of the pier.

Mooring Dolphin Overview

Mooring dolphins are made of steel pipe piles that are driven into the ocean floor. The number of piles used to create a mooring dolphin can range from as low as three piles to as many as 50 piles or more. Mooring dolphins are often made of steel pipe and can be paired with seawalls or docks for enhanced structural protection.

Mooring Dolphin vs. Breasting Dolphin

Mooring dolphins are not to be confused with breasting dolphins. Breasting dolphins assist in the berthing of vessels by taking up some of the berthing loads, while also keeping the vessels from pressing against the pier. Conversely, mooring dolphins are used only for securing vessels. They’re commonly built near piers to control the traffic of berthing vessels.

Mooring Dolphin Installation

There are three main ways in which a mooring dolphin can be installed: jetting, hammering and drilling. Each of these methods were developed for different construction environments.

Jetting: Jetting works best if the underwater ground is soft. A high pressure water pump is used to blow a deep hole into the ground underwater where the steel pipe piling will be set. After the hold is blown, the piling is placed inside the hole and sand is pushed back around the piling to fill the remaining space and keep the piling in place.

Hammering: Hammering is an excellent choice when there are a large number of rocks present. The hammering process forces small and medium sized rocks out of the way, and can also break through a layer of clay. Hammering will not work well on large rocks.

Drilling: If large rocks are present, drilling is the best method to penetrate them. Using this method, pipe pile is drilled and installed right into the rock.

Mooring Dolphin and Steel Pipe Piles

When it comes to protecting valuable infrastructure, it’s important to use high quality pilings. Though mooring dolphins can also be made of timber, steel pipe provides the most durable and long-lasting pipe piles and is therefore a top choice.

Capacity: Steel pipe pile has a high capacity. It’s stronger than timber and can be made larger or thinner without compromising its durability. The strength of steel makes it a great option for mooring dolphins since it can withstand vibrations, shock and high pressure.

Corrosion-Proof: Steel pipe pile is also corrosion proof. Unlike timber, steel is long lasting and resistant to water wear. Additional elements in steel pipe pile, such as nickel and molybdenum, add to its rust resistance. Because of this, steel pipe will last long beyond its installation.

Longevity: Steel pipe has a low interior surface friction, remains stable at extreme temperatures, and is not affected by sunlight or ultraviolet rays, which adds to its longevity. If a steel pipe pile is properly treated during the manufacturing process (coated both inside and out with zinc or protective paint), the piling can be expected to last for years.

To learn more about steel pipe, head over to our blog titled "All About Steel Pipe".

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