Abstract
This paper describes a reliability-based approach to determine fatigue design factors (FDF) for offshore wind turbine support structures made of steel. The FDF values are calibrated to a specific reliability level and linked to a specific inspection and maintenance (I&M) strategy used for the considered offshore wind turbines in such a way that the specific uncertainties for the fatigue life are accounted in a rational manner. Similar approaches have been used for offshore oil & gas sub-structures, but the required reliability level for offshore wind turbines is generally lower and the fatigue loading is different. Based on representative stochastic models and response functions a set of FDF values are determined which depend on the degree of accuracy of the fatigue analysis and the consequences of fatigue failure of a critical detail. It is illustrated how the FDF values can be reduced if inspections are planned during the design life, and thereby the basis is available for selecting a cost-effective fatigue design. Further, the results can be used as basis for recommendations in standardization.
Original language | English |
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Title of host publication | EWEC 2010 Conference proceedings : europe's premier wind energy event |
Number of pages | 7 |
Publisher | The European Wind Energy Association |
Publication date | 2010 |
Publication status | Published - 2010 |
Event | The European Wind Energy Conference & Exhibition, EWEC 2010 - Warszawa, Poland Duration: 20 Apr 2010 → 23 Apr 2010 http://www.ewec2010.info/ |
Conference
Conference | The European Wind Energy Conference & Exhibition, EWEC 2010 |
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Country/Territory | Poland |
City | Warszawa |
Period | 20/04/2010 → 23/04/2010 |
Internet address |
Bibliographical note
Published on a USB.Keywords
- Fatigue Design Factors
- Offshore Wind Turbine
- Probabilistic Calibration