School of Computing, Engineering and Technology

Dynamic Aero-Hydro-Elastic response of Floating Offshore Wind Turbines

This research project explores the coupled aero-hydro-elastic behaviour of floating offshore wind turbines, focusing on dynamic interactions between wind, waves, and structural motion. Using state-of-the-art computational fluid dynamics simulations and multi-physics modelling, the research will enhance understanding of motion-induced loads, stability, and reliability, informing robust designs for next-generation floating systems.

Award

MRes | MPhil | PhD | MSc by Research

Start Date

Usually February and October - at individual School's discretion

Research Opportunities

Summary

Floating offshore wind turbines are subject to complex coupled interactions between aerodynamic forces, hydrodynamic loading, structural flexibility, and mooring dynamics. Platform motions such as surge, pitch, and heave modify inflow conditions, influence rotor aerodynamics, and affect fatigue loads and power stability. This PhD aims to develop a comprehensive computational framework to investigate the dynamic aero-hydro-elastic response of floating offshore wind turbines.

The research will combine high-fidelity CFD modelling of turbine aerodynamics with hydrodynamic simulations of wave–current interaction and structural dynamic analysis. Actuator-line or blade-resolved modelling approaches will be used to capture unsteady aerodynamic loads, while coupled simulations will assess motion-induced load amplification and wake variability.

Reduced-order and AI-assisted surrogate models may be developed to enable rapid prediction of dynamic responses under varying environmental conditions. The project will contribute to improved understanding of stability, fatigue life, and performance variability in floating systems.

The student will gain interdisciplinary expertise spanning aerodynamics, offshore hydrodynamics, structural dynamics, and computational modelling. Outcomes are expected to include journal publications and contributions toward improved design methodologies for floating offshore wind technology.

This opportunity is suited to candidates with a background in mechanical, offshore, aerospace, or computational engineering. Prior experience in CFD, multi-physics modelling, or structural dynamics will be beneficial.