MHI Vestas and Ramboll Launch SMART Foundation Tool

MHI Vestas Offshore Wind and Ramboll have jointly developed a software tool which allows foundation designers to independently perform integrated load analyses in an encapsulated or closed-system version of the full turbine model used for detailed foundation load simulations.

As part of the MVOW SMART Turbine product portfolio announced last week, the SMART Foundation Loads tool enables developers and foundation designers to perform preliminary, integrated load/foundation designs to optimise foundations prior to bid submission.

“The Smart Foundation Loads software tool is a great example of our commitment to create optimal value for customers through a collaborative approach. Our partnership with Ramboll has produced a new industry standard – one that promises to save our customers time and money,” MHI Vestas Head of Technical Engineering, Kenji Sato, said.

Designed with engineering consultancy Frazer-Nash, the software is said to optimise Front End Engineering & Design studies with more early-stage modelling and a reduced risk profile for future MHI Vestas projects. The concept was verified on a full-site calculation basis, with the loads producing a near-perfect match to the fully integrated model, the developers said.

Tim Fischer, Vice Director of Ramboll’s Wind Division, said: “This joint development project has certainly strengthened the collaboration between MHI Vestas and Ramboll. We already have one of the most effective interfaces within the market and with this development we set a new standard in the industry. We look forward to building on this development and continuing the great collaboration with MHI Vestas.”