WindFloat: A Floating Foundation for Offshore Wind Turbines—Part III: Structural Analysis

Abstract

WindFloat is a floating foundation for large offshore wind turbines. This paper describes the structural engineering that was performed as part of the feasibility study conducted for qualification of the technology. Specifically, the preliminary scantling is described and the strength and fatigue analysis methodologies are explained, focusing on the following aspects: • the coupling between the wind turbine and the hull; • the interface between the hydrodynamic loading and the structural response. Prior to reading this manuscript, the reader is strongly encouraged to read the related paper, which focuses on the design basis for the WindFloat, and explores the requirements that must be addressed by the design teams in this new field. An additional paper in this series describes the hydrodynamic analysis and experimental validations.