Gravity-based structure

A gravity-based structure (GBS) is a support structure held in place by gravity, most notably offshore oil platforms. These structures are often constructed in fjords due to their protected area and sufficient depth.

A Condeep type GBS under construction in Norway

Offshore oil platforms

Prior to deployment, a study of the seabed must be done to ensure it can withstand the vertical load from the structure.[1] It is then constructed with steel reinforced concrete into tanks or cells, some of which are used to control the buoyancy. When construction is complete, the structure is towed to its intended location.

Wind turbines
Construction of the bases of new windmills for the Thornton Bank offshore wind farm, in Oostende, Belgium

Early deployments of offshore wind power turbines used these structures. As of 2010, 14 of the world's offshore wind farms had some of their turbines supported by gravity-based structures. The deepest registered offshore wind farm with gravity-based structures is Thornton Bank 1, Belgium, with a depth up to 27.5 m.[2]

See also

References
  1. Dean, E.T.R. (2010). Offshore Geotechnical Engineering - Principles and Practice. Thomas Telford, Reston, VA, U.S.A., 520 p.
  2. "LORC Knowledge. "Datasheet for site: Thornton Bank 1 offshore wind farm", 2011".


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