Context

The operation of a floating wind turbine depends on its hydrodynamic behaviour on the one hand, and on its aerodynamic behaviour on the other hand. It appears that a strong coupling exists between the two for known concepts. The optimisation of structural design and control command laws therefore requires the deployment of new simulation tools or the adaptation of existing tools. These tools need to be validated, in particular by experimental testing phases in tanks or wind tunnels, the final qualification being acquired through feedback from experience at sea. The aim is to develop a set of methodologies and digital and experimental tools that will make it possible to optimise the design of floating wind turbines and thus improve the quality, costs and therefore the competitiveness of products developed by French manufacturers.

Objectives

To improve knowledge of rotor behaviour in dynamics and industrial design tools in order to derisk the design phases and prepare for certification.

Scientific and technical contents

• Wind tunnel tests to characterise the operation of the rotors on a mobile support, using a hexapod.
• Tank tests with a modular floater and two types of rotor (vertical axis helical or horizontal axis).
• Simulations with the various identified numerical models.
• Guidelines for floating wind turbine studies.

Partners and funding

This project was led by France Energies Marines.

The total project budget was €908K.

This project received funding from France Energies Marines and its members and partners.

Photo credit: Creative Nature / AdobeStock