Investigating the Effects of Region 2 Rated Wind Speeds on Spar, Barge, and Semi-sub FOWT Foundations using OpenFAST

There has been a recent push for renewable energy research, especially wind energy. Horizontal axis wind turbines (HAWTs) are one of the most studied aspects of wind energy and the type of technology focused on specifically in this research. Wind turbines can be categorized into onshore and offshore energy, and offshore power can be further split into floating and standing foundations. Three types of floating foundations include barge, spar, and semi-submersible foundations, which are all intended for different depths, locations, water conditions, and costs. Spar foundations are a long cylinder with ballast tanks that floats vertically. Barge platforms have large surface area horizontally. Semi-sub foundations are similar to the barge, but there are multiple mooring lines connected to the ocean floor. Floating HAWTs can be modeled using OpenFAST’s simulation and linearization software. OpenFAST has capabilities to design and test two and three bladed turbines in different atmospheric conditions and special events, such as starting the generator or idling blades. Then, nonlinear results can be linearized into matrices and charts. The goal of the research is to test the impacts of high speed wind on barge, spar, and semi-sub foundations using simulation and linearization. This can be applied to create a more energy and cost efficient wind turbine to be implemented into wind farms. The ultimate goal of my work is to determine which of the offshore platforms is most resilient and able to withstand intense Region 2 rated wind speeds, which is common in offshore environments.

Presentation of Preliminary Research