Dynamic Response Assessment of Floating Offshore Wind Turbine Mooring Systems with Different In-Line Tensioner Configurations Based on Fully Coupled Load Calculations

In-line tensioning technology has significantly reduced the cost barriers that previously hindered the expansion of the floating offshore wind industry. However, assessing the impact of in-line tensioners on the dynamic response of floating offshore wind turbines (FOWTs) lacks effectiveness, and the relevant mooring configuration specifications are not complete. Thus, a fully coupled calculation method is introduced in this paper to solve the relevant issues in mooring systems with in-line tensioners using a classic spar platform model. Three distinct design scenarios were selected to study the variation in mooring configurations of in-line tensioners along different mooring lines and at varied positions within each line. The potential occurrence of reverse tension phenomena was deliberated and assessed. We identified the varying tension patterns at the fairlead and in-line tensioner locations in mooring systems with in-line tensioners, and the influence of such variations on platform dynamics. The findings also demonstrate that the appropriate configuration of in-line tensioners should be selected to avoid the risk of reverse tension. This research has potential to contribute to the security and economy of the deployment of this emerging in-line mooring method.