A Co-Simulation Framework for Ice-Floating Wind Turbine Interaction

Abstract This study presents a co-simulation framework for ice-FOWT (Floating Offshore Wind Turbine) interaction assessments. The framework integrates Abaqus and OrcaFlex for two-way coupled simulations, enabling detailed analyses of the complex interplay between ice mechanics and FOWT dynamics. Ice mechanical behaviour, including failure mechanisms, is modelled in Abaqus through a user-defined material model developed as a Fortran subroutine. This subroutine incorporates a nonlinear viscoelastic constitutive model with progressive damage evolution based on microstructural changes and phase transition in ice under compressive stress state. The flexural failure of ice is modelled using the cohesive zone method. The ice model has been validated against experimental data from physical indentation tests on conical ice samples and triaxial creep tests on cylindrical ice specimens. Additionally, the model has been validated against field observations and field measurements of level ice load on an ice-breaking cone of a jacket structure. The FOWT system in OrcaFlex is modelled according to the NREL 5-MW baseline wind turbine installed on the OC3 Hywind spar floater. The FOWT responses under ice-free and ice-covered conditions are compared to provide insights into the influence of ice loads on system dynamics. This co-simulation framework with a high-fidelity ice model may serve as a foundation for validating future numerical studies based on simplified ice models developed for enhanced computational efficiency.