FDN Floating Breakwater Design
- The Netherlands
Floating breakwater structures are an exclusive specialisation of FDN. Our engineers, who have broad technical knowledge and experience, can provide innovative solutions, which fulfills client’s requirements with excellence. Building this type of structure requires good common sense and practical experience in the field. We have studied the many Floating Breakwater designs of the past and its wave damping characteristics and come up with new innovative designs using wave simulations software such as Delfrac from Delft University of Technology. The director of the FDN group has specialised in Floating Breakwaters at Delft University in the Netherlands and applied this technology in practice.
The floating breakwater structure is an optimal solution to create a safe harbour for the areas, where classical methods are not convenient regarding the large water depth, flexibility of the structure and ecological considerations such as existing coral reefs that may not be damaged. Effective damping of the waves, fast installation and possibility for other use such as a storage facility are the main reasons for choosing a floating breakwater. The floating breakwater represents an effective protection for your harbour or marina.
Project Description
The Floating Breakwater Project focuses on creating robust, modular floating structures that significantly reduce wave energy before it reaches protected areas. By minimizing wave motion, these systems safeguard harbour infrastructures, anchored vessels, and floating solar installations, maintaining calm waters even in challenging conditions.
Challenges of the Project
Designing for extreme maritime environments requires precision. The breakwaters must withstand powerful forces, remain stable under variable sea states, and perform reliably in diverse locations. Balancing durability, cost-efficiency, and environmental compatibility presents a continuous engineering challenge.
Sustainability
FDN’s floating breakwaters promote sustainability by enabling the safe operation of floating solar farms and reducing the need for traditional, resource-intensive coastal defences. Their modular design allows for reuse and relocation, minimizing environmental disruption during construction and operation.
Innovation & Technology
FDN integrates advanced hydrodynamic modelling and simulations to optimize the shape, size, and anchorage of each floating element. These technologies ensure that waves are reduced to less than 40 cm within marinas, providing a calm and secure environment for users. The flexible connections between modules allow dynamic movement without compromising structural integrity.
Partners
FDN collaborates with international engineering firms, maritime authorities, and hydraulic labs to bring these floating solutions to life. Together, they advance the boundaries of marine infrastructure while ensuring resilient, sustainable, and future-ready coastal environments.