Proceedings of Experimental Validation of a Spectral-based Structural Analysis Model Implemented in the Design of the VolturnUS 6MW Floating Offshore Wind Turbine

Published: 2017

Author(s):
Allen, C.
Viselli, A.
Dagher, H.
Goupee, A. J.

Publication Name: The 27th International Ocean & Polar Engineering Conference (ISOPE)

Publication URL: https://onepetro.org/ISOPEIOPEC/proceedings-abstract/ISOPE17/All-ISOPE17/ISOPE-I-17-472/18176

Research Area:
Keywords:
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Abstract:

The following work presents a spectral-based structural analysis method implemented in the design of the VolturnUS 6MW Floating Offshore Wind Turbine hull developed to increase system optimization. To begin, a description of the methodology is provided which details how transfer functions relate the hull’s structural response to first order wave kinematics and wind turbine aerodynamics. Following the model definition, focus is placed on model validation using results from an experimental 1:52 scale model test of the VolturnUS system (shown in Fig. 1) conducted at the University of Maine’s Alfond W2 Ocean Engineering Laboratory. Using data acquired from load cells installed at various locations in the hull the accuracy of the model is assessed through the use of power spectra and statistics. The performance of the structural model is considered over a range of environmental conditions representing design load cases prescribed by the American Bureau of Shipping for class certification of floating offshore wind turbines.