Finite element modelling of winged suction caissons in clay under uniaxial and combined loading

Laurence Darby, Asaad Faramarzi, Koohyar Faizi, Moura Mehravar, Ouahid Harireche

Research output: Contribution to conference (unpublished)Paperpeer-review

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Abstract

Suction caisson foundations, also known as skirted foundations, have recently become a relatively popular solution to support offshore wind turbines. These foundations however, have limited capacity compared to monopiles, particularly when exposed to combined loads reflective of those imposed by offshore wind turbines. The situation may become worse with the introduction of hyper-tall wind turbines and the increasing intensity of storms, including the possibility of hurricanes, which will impose large torsional and overturning moments on the superstructure. This study proposes an innovative solution for foundations of offshore wind turbines in the form of a winged suction caisson which can enhance the torsional capacity of the foundation. In this research, finite element models of the proposed foundation are developed to study its performance in clay under torsional loading combined with horizontal and overturning loads. The results are presented graphically using failure envelopes. The results show a substantial improvement in the overall capacity of the foundation with the addition of wings under combined loading (at least over 40% increase) compared to a conventional suction caisson foundation.
Original languageEnglish
Publication statusPublished - 23 Jun 2019
Event2nd International Conference on Natural Hazards and Infrastructure - Minoa Palace Resort, Chania, Greece
Duration: 23 Jun 201926 Jun 2019

Conference

Conference2nd International Conference on Natural Hazards and Infrastructure
Abbreviated titleICONHIC2019
Country/TerritoryGreece
CityChania
Period23/06/1926/06/19

Keywords

  • suction caisson foundation
  • offshore wind turbines
  • undrained
  • torsion
  • combined loading

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