Fixed-bottom offshore wind turbines experience complex displacement and vibration under simultaneous wind, wave, and seismic loading, driven by coupled aerodynamic, hydrodynamic, and geotechnical interactions. To investigate these multi-physics responses, the authors developed a centrifuge-based experimental apparatus capable of applying all three external forces within a centrifugal field. This paper reviews the relevant similitude laws, describes the apparatus design, and presents initial validation tests. Results confirm that the system can reproduce wind, wave, and seismic forces, inducing horizontal displacement and vibration in the model turbine.
11th International Conference on Physical Modelling in Geotechnics (ICPMG2026)
Session 1: New facilities, new equipment, and measuring techniques