Application of model experiment technology to floating offshore wind farm development

With energy demand increasing gradually,offshore wind turbines of 5 MW or bigger are required in offshore wind farms.The fixed foundation structure cannot meet the requirements,and development of the floating offshore wind turbines(FOWTs) becomes the new trend.The general characteristics of two FOWT prototypes were presented.The features of different floating foundations were compared.Performences of model experiments were analyzed and the key technologies involved are investigated.Some suitable suggestions on theoretical and experimental researches of floating wind turbines in China were provided.The theoretical foundation for constructions of large-scale offshore wind farms in China was offered.