The development of large offshore wind farms is challenging and involves several installations and maintenance operations that are sensitive to weather and wind. By studying such operations in controlled experiments in laboratories and in numerical calculations, our understanding of critical factors increases. This is important in order to carry out the necessary operations safely and efficiently.
With our tools, and together with the industry, we develop solutions that contribute to reducing the costs of installation and maintenance.
SINTEF has tools for numerical modelling of the hydrodynamic behaviour of slender marine structures and large-volume structures. We can model such things as standard coupling elements for towing and lifting, winches, cranes, fenders, dampers and ballast systems.
The tools are used to calculate movements of vessels and structures, as well as forces in lines and connecting elements. When we know limitations on movements or equipment, we can use the numerical tools to determine operational limits. Visualisation in 3D is also available.
Research areas
- Installation methods for bottom-fixed and floating wind turbines
- Analysis and model tests of towing operations
- Repair and replacement methods for major components
- Transfer of personnel from vessel to wind turbine (walk-to-work)
