Larger turbines and more frequent extreme wind events are pushing conventional onshore wind foundations beyond efficient and sustainable limits. Current designs rely on oversized concrete foundations, leading to high costs, increased embodied carbon, fatigue issues, and challenging inspection and repair.
Phase 2 developed and validated structural fuse systems at the tower–foundation interface, including self-centring friction devices and visco-elastic damping mats. High-fidelity modelling and experimental testing demonstrated effective energy dissipation, controlled rocking, and protection of the buried foundation.
Develop high-fidelity 3D soil–structure interaction models to deliver practical, industry-ready design guidance for safer, lower-carbon, and more efficient onshore wind turbine foundations.
We had excellent engagement with the University of Strathclyde and SPR throughout this study. The project team delivered an industry leading study and remained agile throughout to adapt to findings, changes in business needs, and constructive feedback from SSER and SPR. It is truly remarkable to reflect on the ground covered over the past 12 months and the invaluable insights the study has given us into better understanding the demands on our wind turbine foundations.