Posters
Come meet the poster presenters to ask them questions and discuss their work
We would like to invite you to come and see the posters at our upcoming conference. The posters will showcase a diverse range of research topics, and will give delegates an opportunity to engage with the authors and learn more about their work. Whether you are a seasoned researcher or simply curious about the latest developments in your field, we believe that the posters will offer something of interest to everyone. So please join us at the conference and take advantage of this opportunity to learn and engage with your peers in industry and the academic community.
PO160: Optimizing Semi-submersible Hulls of Floating Wind Turbines for Aegean Sea Met-ocean Conditions
Panagiotis Chaviaropoulos, Mechanical Engineer, PhD | Chair of the Board, iWind Renewables S.A.
Abstract
This study presents the outcomes of OptHull.GR Joint Industrial Project (JIP), supported by eleven leading companies, that investigates the optimization of semi-submersible floating offshore wind turbine (FOWT) hulls for the met-ocean conditions of the Aegean Sea. While most floating wind designs to date have been benchmarked against harsh North Sea environments (OA-class in DNV-ST-0437 [1]), the Aegean’s milder OB-class conditions present a unique opportunity for lighter, more cost-efficient designs without compromising safety or reliability. Using the VorturnUS-S semi-submersible floater [2], supporting the IEA 15 MW reference turbine [3] as a baseline, the project applied a systematic design process to evaluate column spacing, column diameter, freeboard, draft, and structural wall thicknesses. The work program comprises five tasks: (1) defining Aegean-specific met-ocean conditions, (2) optimizing global dimensions, (3) assessing intact stability and air-gap, (4) analyzing dynamic performance in the frequency domain, and (5) evaluating design loads under Ultimate, Fatigue, and Accidental Limit States. The comparison between North Sea and Aegean Sea reference conditions highlights modifications tailored to the Aegean environment. By quantifying the influence of milder wave climates on structural loads and system dynamics, the project identifies significant opportunities for mass reduction, translating into reduced steel requirements and lower costs. Results indicate potential floater steel mass reduction of up to 26%. This JIP provides valuable insights into adapting established floating wind designs to Mediterranean conditions, leveraging local supply chains, and lowering the Levelized Cost of Energy (LCOE). The findings support the feasibility of customized, site-specific floating wind solutions that balance performance, safety, and affordability, enabling large-scale deployment in Greece and beyond.
No recording available for this poster.
