MARIN, Deltares Wrap Up Testing of Gravity Based Structures

Two Dutch research institutes MARIN and Deltares have completed a test campaign addressing critical aspects of installation and transportation of gravity based structures (GBS).

The test campaign was conducted as a part of the GBS WIND Joint Industry Project (GBS WIND JIP).

By combining the expertise and laboratory facilities of MARIN and Deltares it has been possible to consider the full operation from port to fully ballast on the seabed.

“We have created a truly unique data set which has given us a better understating of the dynamic behavior of gravity based structures during transportation and installation. We have been able to investigate phenomena such as Vortex Induced Motion (VIM) during installation and to improve our numerical models. Previously this has not been possible to this level of detail,” said Dr. Bo Terp Paulsen, project manager Deltares.

In a next phase of the project, improved numerical models will be used to drive the simulators at MARIN, and tug captains can practice critical moments of the transportation and installation phases. This will give valuable feedback to the engineers and designers such that future foundations can be optimized for stability, as well as, safe marine operations, Deltares explained.

The GBS WIND JIP was initiated by: MARIN, Deltares, ECN, Witteveen + Bos and Vuyk Engineering.

The JIP is also supported by: Deme, Besix, Saipem, Jan de Nul, Statoil, Strukton, Bureau Veritas, ALP Maritieme and Monobase Wind.