Corrosion Analysis and Corresponding Countermeasures of Steel Structures in Offshore Wind Farms

Abstract

[Introduction] Strategies for preventing corrosion in steel structures at offshore wind farms, derived from a comprehensive study on the environmental conditions, symptoms, and mechanisms of corrosion in such structures, as well as an analysis on various causes were proposed, aiming to ensure safe operation throughout their lifecycle. [Method] The study focused on the grid-connected offshore wind farms and investigated corrosion observed in specific marine environmental conditions for different foundation types, structural components, materials, and parts. [Result] The results show that corrosion appears in various forms and progresses at varying rates among different foundation types, structural components, and parts in specific marine environmental conditions. Electrochemical corrosion is identified as the main form of corrosion, while internal and external stresses act as potential accelerators of corrosion in steel structures. Manufacturing quality control and the implementation of protective measures directly affect the rate of corrosion development.[Conclusion] In summary, it is crucial to identify various potential risks related to manufacturing characteristics, material properties, and environmental conditions of steel structures at offshore wind farms and take appropriate refined protection measures to eliminate underlying causes. In addition, protection levels should be increased for certain critical parts.

Keywords

• offshore wind farm
• corrosion of steel structures
• analysis
• strategy
• rate of corrosion