Offshore Monopile Fatigue Reserve Calculator
Quantify how much fatigue margin remains on offshore wind monopiles when extending life beyond the certified term.
Engineering screening tool. Validate with detailed fatigue reassessments, certified inspectors, and regulator approval before extending operation.
Examples
- Design life 25 years, consumed damage 72%, extension 5 years, inspections every 2 years ⇒ Reserve 8.00%, status adequate, three inspections required.
- Design life 20 years, consumed damage 88%, extension 4 years, inspection blank ⇒ Reserve -8.00%, status deficit, four inspections required.
FAQ
How do I handle different hotspots?
Evaluate the most critical weld or hotspot separately. Use the lowest reserve across locations to set the governing decision.
Can mitigation measures increase reserve?
Yes. Grouted repairs, damping retrofits, or load management can reduce effective damage rates—rerun the calculator with revised consumption percentages after mitigation.
Does scour affect the calculation?
Scour alters load spectra and should be reflected in the consumed damage percentage. Incorporate updated hydrodynamic models before finalising the reserve.
Additional Information
- Result unit: percent fatigue reserve remaining and inspection cycles.
- Consumed damage derives from SN-curve assessments or SCADA-driven digital twins; ensure the baseline is up to date.
- Extension usage assumes linear damage with time; apply rainflow-based recalculations for non-linear loading.