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Case Study

Technology Qualification for FOWT Mooring and Anchoring Systems

Client(s): Offshore Renewables Energy Catapult

Dates: 2022

AIMS

The aims of this project were to:

  • Review existing sector technology qualification (TQ) processes;

  • Conduct three mooring system TQ case studies to demonstrate the application of qualification process and extract learning outcomes;

  • Develop a framework for TQ of FWT mooring and anchoring components, sub-systems and systems;

  • Examine infrastructure and resources required for TQ activities in the sector;

  • Review available infrastructure and facilities available in UK and Europe and identify gaps.

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Approach

TTI-MR collaborated closely with ORE Catapult and its Focus Group to select three case study topics and thoroughly conducted the case studies, which generated substantial learning outcomes and developed matrices of system failure modes and candidate qualification activities to mitigate performance uncertainties.

The learning outcomes were integrated into the development of the overall TQ framework. The overall approach relied heavily on stakeholder engagement to understand requirements and views on TQ.

TTI-MR reviewed in detail the key Class Society TQ process and summarised these in a document and this also fed into the framework development. The candidate TQ activities were used to assess gaps in the market following the facility and infrastructure review.

TTI-MR focused on high-impact and easy to use deliverables and tools to support the sector.

Key Outcomes and Impact

In addition to extensive and detailed reporting TTI-MR also developed a detailed TQ spreadsheet planning and monitoring tool that included matrices of failure modes and templates for each step of the TQ process. This was supported with a detailed descriptive report and a higher-level online tool to guide users through the process: https://www.fowmoortq.com/

Industry Relevance

This project demonstrated TTI-MR’s approach to technology qualification in the sector and broad-ranging sector knowledge and experience in general. It also allowed us to demonstrate our rigorous and impactful approach to reporting and dissemination of complex subjects and allowed us to develop a good working relationship with ORE Catapult.