Design of a quick-connection device for installing pre-assembled offshore wind turbines

Abstract

Higher wind velocities and lower wind shear are two motivations driving the development of floating offshore wind turbines (OWTs). However, such designs suffer from high expenses and complicated installation scenarios. Installation of offshore wind turbines is challenging due to the unpredictable nature of the environment and the technical complexities, especially at offshore sites. Mating of OWT on top of the pre-installed substructure is one of the critical stages of the installation operation. Grouted, welded, and bolted connections are utilized conventionally, but all have shortcomings. Welded and grouted connections suffer from fatigue forces, while a bolted connection requires minimal installation tolerances and sensitivity to impact forces. The design of a quick connection device (QCD) is expected to reduce the installation time, expand the operational weather window, and overcome the limitations of the earlier connection devices.

The QCD described here comprises conic cross-sections, circular plates, and stiffeners connected to the floating substructure and OWT. This research uses a global model to estimate the relative velocities and displacements between the OWT and spar buoy. Furthermore, a local finite element model is developed to assess the influence of the impact forces and the design of the connection device. Implementing the hydrostatic stiffness of the floating spar within the impact simulations improved the simulation fidelity and reduced the impact damage. Different impact scenarios are performed, and the sensitivity of impact damage concerning the distribution of impact initiation points is assessed. Furthermore, an active control mechanism is used to reduce the relative motions between the installation vessel and the floating substructure. It is concluded that utilizing the anti-swing active control system minimizes the impact velocity and impact damage. This research can be extended by optimizing the design of the quick connection device.