Load Coefficients on Grates used for Wind Turbine Access Platforms: Model Test Investigations

Previously the run-up generated forces on access platforms for offshore wind turbines have been measured for a platform consisting of solid plates in small scale wave tests performed at Aalborg University [Lykke Andersen & Brorsen, 2006]. These run-up generated forces are typically of very short duration (slamming).

The investigations presented in this report deal with the use of grates instead of solid plates for the access platform. Grates have previously been used for the access platforms on Horns Rev 1, but quite some damaged has been observed on the platforms. This damage is expected to be due to larger loads than accounted for in the design.