Snap loads on mooring lines of a floating offshore wind turbine structure
Published: 2014
Publication Name: Proceedings 33rd Int. Conf. Ocean, Offshore and Arctic Engng. (OMAE 2014), Paper 23587, San Francisco, USA.
Publication URL: https://www.researchgate.net/publication/286113844_Snap_Loads_on_Mooring_Lines_of_a_Floating_Offshore_Wind_Turbine_Structure
Abstract:
There are a number of design challenges facing mooring systems of floating offshore wind turbine (FOWT) platforms in an offshore environment. Some unique aspects of the FOWT industry should be considered when examining applicability of established offshore mooring practices. Important among these are: economy and cost effectiveness; light weight minimal platforms; and water depths ranging from 50300 m. A lighter displacement platform in shallow water, supported by lines with light to moderate pre-tension can result in a higher probability of slack line events and hence snap loads during re-engagement. Such loads can result in shock on the line material and considerably reduce the fatigue life. Such events have the potential to occur in various sea states, and not necessarily limited to extreme conditions. These conditions will be dependent on structure resonant motions, which are influenced by wind loads and moments, wave conditions and mooring line properties. Model tests of typical concepts for FOWT reported in literature have shown occasional slack line episodes. This paper is a review of literature on snap load occurrence in marine applications, including lifting and lowering operations, ROV and diving bell operations. This paper presents a case study of a FOWT. Special focus is on mooring systems which are affected by impact load conditions. Criteria are reviewed and consequences are documented.