Optimal dimensions of a semisubmersible floating platform for a 10MW wind turbine

Abstract

In this paper, an optimal semisubmersible platform is sought considering two key geometry variables: The diameter of the outer cylinders and their radial distance from the platform centre. The goal is to identify a platform configuration able to most efficiently contrast the combined windwave action, keeping the platform dimensions as small as possible. The amplitude of the Response Amplitude Operator (RAO) peaks and the integral area of the RAOs in a range of excited frequencies for the selected degrees of freedom are chosen as targets to be minimised. Through an efficient frequency domain simulation approach, we show that upscaling techniques proposed in the literature may lead to overdesigned platforms and that smaller and more performing platforms can be identified. In particular, the optimised platform shows a reduction of about 51% in parked and 54% in power production of the heave RAO peak, and a reduction of about 37% in parked and 50% in power production of the pitch RAO.