The optimum design and configuration of boat landings for accessing wind turbine foundations from crew transfer vessels (CTVs) is the subject of a new report from the International Marine Contractors Association (IMCA).
The ‘Standardised boat landing research report’ was produced by the IMCA’s renewable energy workgroup and aims to reduce costs and improve safety for companies operating in the offshore renewables sector.
It covers crew transfer to offshore wind turbines, fender impact loading and safe clearances.
IMCA technical director Richard Benzie (pictured) said: “In order to undertake this task, a questionnaire was issued to all the operators of European offshore wind farms to gather information on existing boat landing geometries.
“At the same time, feedback was sought on the experience of CTV operators, fender manufacturers and structure designers.”
Analysis of the data gathered has allowed IMCA to recommend geometry for a standard boat landing consistent with the G+ Global Offshore Wind Health & Safety Organisation guidelines.
However, Benzie said one area lacking data was the design impact forces for the boat landing.
“This information was not as readily available as expected, with only two out of 24 projects originally being able to supply it,” he said.
“Looking in detail at how the design codes address impact loads, a number of areas of challenge and further research have been identified,” he added.
Companies providing data for the report included Seaway Heavy Lifting and Subsea 7, IMCA said.
Image: IMCA
IMCA spotlight on boat landings
Report outlines optimum design for CTV access to turbine foundations
By EBS