The researchers tested a 1:70 scale model of an offshore wind turbine in a wind/wave tank, then compared the results to computer simulations using OpenFAST technology to see how similar the simulations would be. They found that some things matched the simulation results, but not everything. This work is highly important to the development and commercialization of floating offshore wind; a renewable energy technology that has the potential to power the state of Maine, and even the United States.
Wind/Wave Testing of a 1:70-Scale Performance-Matched Model of the IEA Wind 15 MW Reference Wind Turbine with Real-Time ROSCO Control and Floating Feedback
Matthew Fowler, Eben Lenfest, Anthony Viselli, Andrew Goupee, Richard Kimball, Roger Bergua, Lu Wang, Daniel Zalkind, Alan Wright, and Amy Robertson
Experimental results from the Floating Offshore-wind and Controls Advanced Laboratory (FOCAL) experimental program, which tested a performance-matched model of the IEA Wind 15 MW Reference Turbine on a 1:70 scale floating semisubmersible platform, are compared with OpenFAST simulations. Four experimental campaigns were performed, and data from the fourth campaign, which focused on wind and wave testing of the scaled floating wind turbine system, are considered. Simulations of wave-only, wind-only, and wind/wave environments are performed in OpenFAST, and results for key metrics are compared with the experiment. Performance of the real-time Reference OpenSource COntroller (ROSCO) in above-rated wind conditions, including the effects of the floating feedback loop, are investigated. Results show good agreement in mean values for key metrics, and hydrodynamic effects are matched well. Differences in the surge resonant behavior of the platform are identified and discussed. The effect of the controller and floating feedback loop is evident in both the experiment and OpenFAST, showing significant reduction in platform pitch response and tower base bending load near the platform pitch natural frequency.
Interested in floating offshore wind? The ASCC is proud to be hosting the 2023 American Floating Offshore Wind Technical Summit (AFloat 2023) in Portland, Maine, September 25-27, 2023. Register here to take part in this historic event for floating offshore wind!
Advanced Structures & Composites Center