Session: 09-01-05 Wind Energy: Aero-hydrodynamics 5

Paper Number: 127767

127767 - Numerical Investigation of Vortex-Induced Motions (Vim) on a Semi-Submersible Floating Offshore Wind Turbine 

Vortex-induced motions (VIM) have emerged as a significant concern for the structural integrity and performance of floating offshore wind turbines (FOWT). These motions can impart extreme loads and fatigue stresses on the mooring lines, cables, and other vital substructures, including the nacelle. While semi-submersible platforms with multiple columns are susceptible to VIM, the comprehensive understanding of this phenomenon remains elusive. Historically, model testing has been the primary approach, primarily focused on oil and gas platforms, thereby introducing inherent scaling effects, including Reynolds number effects.

This paper introduces a novel numerical investigation into the VIM behavior of a semi-submersible floater named "WINDMOOR." Employing semi-empirical time-domain vortex shedding loads - VIVANA-TD on the platform's columns, we rigorously explored the VIM responses across a spectrum of current speeds and incident angles. Using the semi-empirical load model VIVANA-TD allows the simulation to include wind, wave and current loads together with the wind blade/power system in the same simulation as interaction between them in the same simulation.

Our study conclusively demonstrates the presence of VIM in the operational environment of FOWT and underscores the paramount importance of integrating VIM considerations into the design process. This research contributes significantly to advancing our comprehension of VIM effects on semi-submersible FOWT systems, ultimately informing safer and more efficient offshore wind energy solutions.                                                                                                                                        

Presenting Author: Decao Yin SINTEF Ocean

Presenting Author Biography: PhD from NTNU.
Senior Research Scientist at SINTEF Ocean (earlier MARINTEK)
More than 10 years experience in Ocean Engineering.
Have been working with slender marine structures such as deepwater risers, pipelines, offloading hoses, umbilicals.
Specialise vortex-induced vibrations (VIV/VIM), model testing, data analysis.

Authors:

Decao Yin SINTEF Ocean
Elizabeth Passano SINTEF Ocean
Petter Andreas Berthelsen SINTEF Ocean