In the burgeoning field of offshore wind energy, the stability of foundations is paramount. A recent study published in *Yantu gongcheng xuebao* (Chinese Journal of Geotechnical Engineering) by YAN Yue of the State Key Laboratory of Hydraulic Engineering Intelligent Construction and Operation at Tianjin University, offers a significant advancement in understanding and optimizing the interaction between bucket foundations and marine soil. This research could have profound implications for the energy sector, particularly in enhancing the efficiency and reliability of offshore wind turbine installations.
Bucket foundations, a relatively new type of marine foundation, are increasingly being used in offshore wind turbine engineering. Their stable service performance hinges on the interaction between the foundation and the marine soil. To evaluate this interaction more accurately, YAN Yue and his team proposed a modified p-y spring method, an adaptation of the conventional p-y spring method used for pile foundations.
The study involved three-dimensional finite element analyses, which were compared with the p-y curve recommended by the American Petroleum Institute (API) standard. The researchers introduced two correction parameters, the p-factor and the y-factor, to refine the model. “The y-factor can be significantly affected by multi-layer soil,” YAN Yue explained, highlighting the complexity of soil conditions in marine environments. The p-factor, on the other hand, was found to generally range between 1.38 and 2.08, providing a more precise understanding of soil behavior under load.
One of the most compelling aspects of this research is its practical applicability. The modified p-y spring method demonstrated good adaptability to actual project site conditions, as shown in a case study. Moreover, the method extends to consider the bucket foundation-soil interaction under multiple degrees of freedom, offering a more comprehensive approach to foundation design.
The implications for the energy sector are substantial. Offshore wind energy is a critical component of the global transition to renewable energy sources. By improving the design and analysis of bucket foundations, this research can enhance the stability and longevity of offshore wind turbines, reducing maintenance costs and improving energy output. “This method can help engineers design more robust and efficient foundations, which is crucial for the success of offshore wind projects,” YAN Yue noted.
The study also conducted a parametric analysis on common single-layer and layered clay geological conditions in the ocean, varying factors such as the soil shear stiffness coefficient (Gmax/su) and failure shear strain. The NGI-ADP soil model was used to effectively represent the nonlinearity property of soil, adding another layer of sophistication to the research.
As the world continues to invest in renewable energy, the need for reliable and efficient foundation designs becomes ever more critical. This research by YAN Yue and his team represents a significant step forward in this field, offering a more accurate and adaptable method for evaluating the interaction between bucket foundations and marine soil. The findings could shape future developments in offshore wind turbine engineering, ensuring that these structures are not only more stable but also more cost-effective and environmentally sustainable.
For professionals in the construction and energy sectors, this research underscores the importance of continuous innovation and adaptation. As YAN Yue’s work demonstrates, even small improvements in design and analysis can have significant commercial impacts, paving the way for a more sustainable and efficient energy future.