Abstract
This paper describes the geotechnical considerations in assessing the fatigue lives of offshore wind foundations over their lifetime, including the potential for life extension.A case study is presented where a new analysis tool was used to reassess the fatigue lives of monopile foundations at a wind farm experiencing significant scour. Previous assessments using conventional modelling techniques for foundation loads and soil structure interaction predicted several locations with unacceptable fatigue lives.The fatigue reassessment was based on in-service loads calculated from an innovative monitoring system. The latest industry guidance for the geotechnical design of monopiles, as recommended by the PISA project, was used to predict the sub-mudline stiffness. Life reassessment was completed for all primary foundation steel circumferential welds in the wind farm including critical sub-mudline locations.The use of advanced soil structure modelling techniques, coupled with in-service load data and explicit modelling of scour effects, has enabled a more accurate assessment of fatigue lives. Fatigue life was demonstrated to be acceptable at all locations, with the potential for life extension. The relative effect on fatigue life of the improved geotechnical assessment and monitored loads was studied. This showed that both components were necessary to achieve the fatigue life targets.
Published Version
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