Fault tree analysis of the failure of floating offshore wind turbines support structures and blade systems

摘要

This study focuses on two critical assemblies of semi-submersible floating offshore wind turbines: support structures and blade system. Qualitative and quantitative assessments of their probability of failure are performed using the Fault Tree Analysis method. Two comprehensive fault trees are implemented, and Minimal Cut Sets and Importance Measures are determined, providing information about the failure evolution process and the relative importance of the basic events that contribute to failure. Failure rates of relevant offshore structures are collected from previous studies, reports and reliability databases. Quantitative assessments are made for the event sequences identified. The results are generally in conformity with statistical data, indicating that extreme weather conditions are the main contributors to system malfunctions.