Finite-Element-Modelling of Large Diameter Monopiles for Offshore Wind Energy Converters

Abstract

Monopiles for offshore wind energy converters are highly laterally loaded structures with diameters up to 6 m and more. Their design is based on the well-known p-y-method, which has been calibrated on field test results for much smaller pile diameters. The present paper provides an FE-analysis of the monopile behavior compared to the standard design method. The results indicate the influence of the pile diameter on the pile-soil stiffness and point out that the p-y-method overestimates the soil stiffness at great depth. A modification of the p-y-method is proposed which better accounts for the pile-soil interaction of large diameter monopiles.