Assessment of Offshore Wind Farm Foundations under Dynamic Loading Conditions

Abstract

The advancement of offshore wind farms is a key strategy for increasing renewable energy production, yet the performance of their foundations under dynamic loading conditions remains a critical area of study. This paper investigates the behavior of offshore wind farm foundations—monopiles, jacket structures, and floating platforms—when subjected to dynamic loads such as waves, wind, and seismic forces. Using a combination of numerical simulations and experimental studies, we assess how these foundations respond to the complex and variable forces encountered in marine environments. Numerical simulations incorporate finite element analysis (FEA) and computational fluid dynamics (CFD) to model interactions between dynamic loads and foundation structures. Experimental studies, including wave tank experiments and full-scale field measurements, provide empirical data to validate these models. The results highlight the distinct performance characteristics of each foundation type under dynamic conditions. Monopiles are effective for shallow waters but may need reinforcement in deeper or more challenging environments. Jacket structures offer improved stability and are suitable for deeper waters, while floating platforms provide flexibility for deep offshore sites but face unique dynamic challenges. The study underscores the importance of advanced design and analysis techniques to enhance the resilience and efficiency of offshore wind farm foundations in dynamic marine conditions.