Conference Proceedings - World Mining Congress 2026

1372 specific and difficult conditions in which floating photovoltaic farms are used (moisture, salinity, and other factors accelerating corrosion), the significant advantages of composite materials for these applications have been recognized. Based on experience in the construction of yachts, boats, and large vessels, durability of this material has already been confirmed and is widely known (Geuskens el at., 2021; Smith, 2023). As part of the project, innovative solutions were implemented, including the development of a technology for manufacturing composite pipes and the design of composite profiles dedicated to photovoltaic structures. During the design planning stage, decisions were made to produce composite profiles based on resins and glass fibers (GFRP – Glass Fiber Reinforced Polymer) due to practical and economic considerations. The assumptions were confirmed by a strength analysis of individual structural elements. Figure 2 shows the results of the static analysis of the float pipe itself and a diagram of the loads used to determine the stresses and strains in individual elements and structural joints. Figure 2 – Static analysis of the float tube: (a) a single floating section, (b) stresses for dead loads Calculations performed for critical loads (snow, wind) and the results of numerical modelling of the FPV floating section structural elements indicate that there are no stresses that could cause damage to the structure. 3.2 Anchoring systems Proper mounting of a floating photovoltaic farm to a water reservoir has a significant impact on its correct functioning. Its main purpose is to protect the components, in particular PV panels, from damage and uncontrolled drifting. This requires the development of a technical design based on bathymetric and topographic data of the reservoir and an analysis of environmental conditions. In the case of a post-mining reservoir, periodic changes in the water level must also be taken into account. The main element of the anchoring and stabilization system is the fastening of floating sections to the bottom of the reservoir using composite anchors, as shown in Figure 3. An important feature of this system is the ability to adjust the level of the installation in relation to the water level. In the design, composite anchors were made using the pultrusion method from drawn fiberglass and thermosetting polyester resin. Preliminary studies indicate that anchors with a diameter of 60-100 mm will meet the assumed operational requirements. The final dimension will be determined on the basis of complete data on static and dynamic loads for the entire installation. The choice of polyester composite was based on an assessment of its mechanical parameters and resistance to alkaline and acid solutions, a wide range of resistance to low and high temperatures, and resistance to UV rays. The attachment to the bottom of the tank was designed by pressure injection of a two-component organic-mineral adhesive into prepared holes. The pull-out resistance of such an attachment will be checked in the next stage of testing.

RkJQdWJsaXNoZXIy MTM0Mzk2