Author: Varelis, GE, Ai, J, Kane, P, Ragheb, H, & Dib, E.
Publication: ASME 2021 3rd International Offshore Wind Technical Conference
The present work examines the effect of scour on the structural integrity of monopiles using integrated simulation models that combine advanced finite element analysis (FEA) and computational fluid dynamics (CFD) techniques. A typical monopile geometry and North Sea representative metocean data are used in a case study. In this example analysis emphasis is given on the structural integrity deterioration resulting from the scour development over time. Advanced techniques are employed to simulate the soil-pile interaction. Furthermore, fluid-structure interaction effects due to the water flow around the monopile are examined using CFD techniques. Finally, fatigue life predictions of sensitive areas are conducted based on the “S-N methodology” and are enhanced by employing crack-growth analyses based on linear elastic fracture mechanics principles.