Scientists at Heriot-Watt University have developed an innovative tool to predict underwater landslides that threaten the stability of offshore wind farms. Technology will help reduce risks at the design stage and throughout the entire life of turbines.
Subsea landslides are sudden movements of the seafloor that can damage wind turbine foundations. They are especially dangerous in areas with soft soil and gentle slopes. Installing turbines creates additional load, which makes it difficult to predict risks. The new modeling method allows you to quickly identify dangerous areas and strengthen the bottom before construction begins.
Professor Qingping Zou from Heriot-Watt University explained: “Offshore wind turbines are multi-million dollar investments, and their sustainability is critical. Our tool provides accurate predictions, helping engineers select safe locations and minimize risks at all stages.”
The development combines the theory of soil mechanics with a method for reducing shear strength, which makes it possible to analyze the stability of the bottom under load. Testing was carried out on 3D models, including the Silver Pit area off the coast of Lincolnshire, which is known for frequent landslides.
PhD student Benjian Song noted that the tool overcomes the limitations of older models: “It takes into account multiple landslides and the long-term impact of foundations on the seabed, which was previously difficult to predict.”
Research published in the journals Ocean Engineering and Soil Dynamics and Earthquake Engineering found that monopiles (steel piles) create stress zones and storms further weaken the soil. Dr Cathal Cummins said: “Increasing the diameter and depth of piles can reduce the risks. Our tool helps engineers take all factors into account when designing.”
The team of scientists plans to collaborate with industrial companies to implement the technology in real projects. This will improve the safety and efficiency of offshore wind power.
Source: geoinfo.ru
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