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F.C. Lange
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The design of a floating construction for a hyperscale data center on the energy storage lake of Delta21
A conceptual design of a floating pontoon and its mooring system
Master thesis
(2025)
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I.A.J. Helwes, F.C. Lange, J.O. (Oriol) Colomes Gene, Huub Lavooij, R.J. Labeur, M.Z. Voorendt
The growing demand for digital infrastructure presents the Netherlands with spatial and energy-related challenges. The objective of this study is to develop a functional and structural design of a support system for a floating hyperscale data center located on the Delta21 energy storage lake. The goal is to assess whether such a floating system can be realized as structurally safe, dynamically stable, and spatially compatible within specific boundary conditions. The study follows the methodology of the elementary design cycle, progressing from problem definition to verification. First, the functional design consisting of a rectangular pontoon anchored by rigid steel mooring arms was developed.
After verification of the boundary conditions, functional requirements, and evaluation criteria obtained from the system analysis and listened in the Basis of Design, the functional design is shown to be feasible at this design phase. The three main functional challenges were that the structure must continuously accommodate water level variations of up to 25 m, that it must provide a reliable support structure for the data center equipment, and that the structure is located within Natura2000 areas.
For the proposed functional design, a structural design was developed. Static and dynamic analyzes were performed to establish a preliminary understanding of feasibility and structural behavior. A first order static analysis of horizontal wind loads demonstrates that the structure remains within allowable limits for both mooring arm strength and pontoon stability. Regarding the dynamic stability of the pontoon under environmental loads, no definitive conclusions can be drawn because the analysis indicates sensitivity rather than the actual response of the system. The results suggest that the system is likely to be susceptible to resonance from wind gusts. Therefore, structural feasibility has been partly demonstrated, but structural reliability cannot yet be assessed.
Currently, there are no standard design guidelines or reference projects for floating data centers. Consequently, the model was developed on the basis of assumptions derived from related maritime and offshore engineering practices and guidelines. Therefore, a sensitivity analysis was performed to provide additional insight into possible design optimizations. This analysis also indicated that the system is sensitive to vertical instability. Further studies can therefore challenge the proposed design and could even undermine its performance. The results should therefore be regarded as an initial technical exploration rather than a fully validated design.
The study concludes that the proposed concept is structurally robust, functionally feasible within this design phase, and future-oriented. Integrating a floating hyperscale data center into the Delta21 project combines digital capacity, sustainability, and spatial efficiency. For subsequent design phases, it is recommended to make iterations on the proposed design and to investigate the economic feasibility, environmental impact, and energy integration to fully assess the overall feasibility of the project. ...
After verification of the boundary conditions, functional requirements, and evaluation criteria obtained from the system analysis and listened in the Basis of Design, the functional design is shown to be feasible at this design phase. The three main functional challenges were that the structure must continuously accommodate water level variations of up to 25 m, that it must provide a reliable support structure for the data center equipment, and that the structure is located within Natura2000 areas.
For the proposed functional design, a structural design was developed. Static and dynamic analyzes were performed to establish a preliminary understanding of feasibility and structural behavior. A first order static analysis of horizontal wind loads demonstrates that the structure remains within allowable limits for both mooring arm strength and pontoon stability. Regarding the dynamic stability of the pontoon under environmental loads, no definitive conclusions can be drawn because the analysis indicates sensitivity rather than the actual response of the system. The results suggest that the system is likely to be susceptible to resonance from wind gusts. Therefore, structural feasibility has been partly demonstrated, but structural reliability cannot yet be assessed.
Currently, there are no standard design guidelines or reference projects for floating data centers. Consequently, the model was developed on the basis of assumptions derived from related maritime and offshore engineering practices and guidelines. Therefore, a sensitivity analysis was performed to provide additional insight into possible design optimizations. This analysis also indicated that the system is sensitive to vertical instability. Further studies can therefore challenge the proposed design and could even undermine its performance. The results should therefore be regarded as an initial technical exploration rather than a fully validated design.
The study concludes that the proposed concept is structurally robust, functionally feasible within this design phase, and future-oriented. Integrating a floating hyperscale data center into the Delta21 project combines digital capacity, sustainability, and spatial efficiency. For subsequent design phases, it is recommended to make iterations on the proposed design and to investigate the economic feasibility, environmental impact, and energy integration to fully assess the overall feasibility of the project. ...
The growing demand for digital infrastructure presents the Netherlands with spatial and energy-related challenges. The objective of this study is to develop a functional and structural design of a support system for a floating hyperscale data center located on the Delta21 energy storage lake. The goal is to assess whether such a floating system can be realized as structurally safe, dynamically stable, and spatially compatible within specific boundary conditions. The study follows the methodology of the elementary design cycle, progressing from problem definition to verification. First, the functional design consisting of a rectangular pontoon anchored by rigid steel mooring arms was developed.
After verification of the boundary conditions, functional requirements, and evaluation criteria obtained from the system analysis and listened in the Basis of Design, the functional design is shown to be feasible at this design phase. The three main functional challenges were that the structure must continuously accommodate water level variations of up to 25 m, that it must provide a reliable support structure for the data center equipment, and that the structure is located within Natura2000 areas.
For the proposed functional design, a structural design was developed. Static and dynamic analyzes were performed to establish a preliminary understanding of feasibility and structural behavior. A first order static analysis of horizontal wind loads demonstrates that the structure remains within allowable limits for both mooring arm strength and pontoon stability. Regarding the dynamic stability of the pontoon under environmental loads, no definitive conclusions can be drawn because the analysis indicates sensitivity rather than the actual response of the system. The results suggest that the system is likely to be susceptible to resonance from wind gusts. Therefore, structural feasibility has been partly demonstrated, but structural reliability cannot yet be assessed.
Currently, there are no standard design guidelines or reference projects for floating data centers. Consequently, the model was developed on the basis of assumptions derived from related maritime and offshore engineering practices and guidelines. Therefore, a sensitivity analysis was performed to provide additional insight into possible design optimizations. This analysis also indicated that the system is sensitive to vertical instability. Further studies can therefore challenge the proposed design and could even undermine its performance. The results should therefore be regarded as an initial technical exploration rather than a fully validated design.
The study concludes that the proposed concept is structurally robust, functionally feasible within this design phase, and future-oriented. Integrating a floating hyperscale data center into the Delta21 project combines digital capacity, sustainability, and spatial efficiency. For subsequent design phases, it is recommended to make iterations on the proposed design and to investigate the economic feasibility, environmental impact, and energy integration to fully assess the overall feasibility of the project.
After verification of the boundary conditions, functional requirements, and evaluation criteria obtained from the system analysis and listened in the Basis of Design, the functional design is shown to be feasible at this design phase. The three main functional challenges were that the structure must continuously accommodate water level variations of up to 25 m, that it must provide a reliable support structure for the data center equipment, and that the structure is located within Natura2000 areas.
For the proposed functional design, a structural design was developed. Static and dynamic analyzes were performed to establish a preliminary understanding of feasibility and structural behavior. A first order static analysis of horizontal wind loads demonstrates that the structure remains within allowable limits for both mooring arm strength and pontoon stability. Regarding the dynamic stability of the pontoon under environmental loads, no definitive conclusions can be drawn because the analysis indicates sensitivity rather than the actual response of the system. The results suggest that the system is likely to be susceptible to resonance from wind gusts. Therefore, structural feasibility has been partly demonstrated, but structural reliability cannot yet be assessed.
Currently, there are no standard design guidelines or reference projects for floating data centers. Consequently, the model was developed on the basis of assumptions derived from related maritime and offshore engineering practices and guidelines. Therefore, a sensitivity analysis was performed to provide additional insight into possible design optimizations. This analysis also indicated that the system is sensitive to vertical instability. Further studies can therefore challenge the proposed design and could even undermine its performance. The results should therefore be regarded as an initial technical exploration rather than a fully validated design.
The study concludes that the proposed concept is structurally robust, functionally feasible within this design phase, and future-oriented. Integrating a floating hyperscale data center into the Delta21 project combines digital capacity, sustainability, and spatial efficiency. For subsequent design phases, it is recommended to make iterations on the proposed design and to investigate the economic feasibility, environmental impact, and energy integration to fully assess the overall feasibility of the project.
Limiting global warming to 1.5°C is urgent, as highlighted by IPCC and IEA reports aiming for net zero emissions by 2050. Wind energy, particularly offshore, offers significant potential for renewable energy capacity expansion. Although offshore installations are limited to shallow waters using monopiles, deeper waters with higher wind speeds require larger turbines. This transition to deeper waters and larger turbines is challenging and requires continuous development and innovation. Floating wind turbines show promise for overcoming these challenges, but further improvements are needed to scale up floating wind farms and reduce installation costs for profitability. Bluewater Energy Services is a company actively exploring solutions to improve the installation method of floating wind turbines with the Transport and Installation Frame. In addition to the market gap for the installation of floating wind turbines, there are also opportunities in the development of bottom-fixed wind for larger wind turbines and greater water depths. Therefore, the goal of Bluewater is to design a frame for the transport and installation of both bottom-fixed and floating wind to increase profitability.
The aim of this research project is to assess the feasibility of the Transport and Installation Frame for bottom-fixed wind. The research question has been answered using a systematic design methodology. Initially, information was collected, research questions were formulated and starting points were established through a literature study. The first phase, system analysis, outlined the transport and installation methodology and defined the design criteria. Subsequently, the design of the bottom-fixed structure, which could be installed using the frame was explored. Finally, the limitations of the transport and installation methodology were examined, particularly focusing on the maximum angle of heel, natural period, and the weather window.
Towards the conclusion of the thesis, an evaluation is presented regarding the feasibility of the frame for bottom-fixed wind. This includes an initial design for the bottom-fixed structure and the transport and installation methodology, based on the integrated installation method for a 15 MW wind turbine. The transport and installation methodology in this thesis focuses on the compression principle. In which the Transport and Installation Frame remains at the waterline and the bottom-fixed structure is lowered to the seabed at 80 meters by pushing it with spud piles down. This study identifies critical stages and associated issues related to static stability, maximum heeling angles, deck or edge immersion, spud pile strength, seabed placement, and the natural periods in heave and pitch.
The results of the design research indicate that, within the identified limitations, there are no significant unresolved issues affecting the feasibility of the transport and installation frame for bottom-fixed wind. This conclusion is based on analyses focused on static and strength analysis. To assess the technical feasibility, it is recommended that the specifications of the weather window be refined, static optimisation be performed, and critical issues related to dynamic behavior be addressed, specifically during seabed placement and dynamic responses to external forces. To further develop this project and explore the profitability, it is recommended to obtain an overview of the specific location, costs, and installation time. ...
The aim of this research project is to assess the feasibility of the Transport and Installation Frame for bottom-fixed wind. The research question has been answered using a systematic design methodology. Initially, information was collected, research questions were formulated and starting points were established through a literature study. The first phase, system analysis, outlined the transport and installation methodology and defined the design criteria. Subsequently, the design of the bottom-fixed structure, which could be installed using the frame was explored. Finally, the limitations of the transport and installation methodology were examined, particularly focusing on the maximum angle of heel, natural period, and the weather window.
Towards the conclusion of the thesis, an evaluation is presented regarding the feasibility of the frame for bottom-fixed wind. This includes an initial design for the bottom-fixed structure and the transport and installation methodology, based on the integrated installation method for a 15 MW wind turbine. The transport and installation methodology in this thesis focuses on the compression principle. In which the Transport and Installation Frame remains at the waterline and the bottom-fixed structure is lowered to the seabed at 80 meters by pushing it with spud piles down. This study identifies critical stages and associated issues related to static stability, maximum heeling angles, deck or edge immersion, spud pile strength, seabed placement, and the natural periods in heave and pitch.
The results of the design research indicate that, within the identified limitations, there are no significant unresolved issues affecting the feasibility of the transport and installation frame for bottom-fixed wind. This conclusion is based on analyses focused on static and strength analysis. To assess the technical feasibility, it is recommended that the specifications of the weather window be refined, static optimisation be performed, and critical issues related to dynamic behavior be addressed, specifically during seabed placement and dynamic responses to external forces. To further develop this project and explore the profitability, it is recommended to obtain an overview of the specific location, costs, and installation time. ...
Limiting global warming to 1.5°C is urgent, as highlighted by IPCC and IEA reports aiming for net zero emissions by 2050. Wind energy, particularly offshore, offers significant potential for renewable energy capacity expansion. Although offshore installations are limited to shallow waters using monopiles, deeper waters with higher wind speeds require larger turbines. This transition to deeper waters and larger turbines is challenging and requires continuous development and innovation. Floating wind turbines show promise for overcoming these challenges, but further improvements are needed to scale up floating wind farms and reduce installation costs for profitability. Bluewater Energy Services is a company actively exploring solutions to improve the installation method of floating wind turbines with the Transport and Installation Frame. In addition to the market gap for the installation of floating wind turbines, there are also opportunities in the development of bottom-fixed wind for larger wind turbines and greater water depths. Therefore, the goal of Bluewater is to design a frame for the transport and installation of both bottom-fixed and floating wind to increase profitability.
The aim of this research project is to assess the feasibility of the Transport and Installation Frame for bottom-fixed wind. The research question has been answered using a systematic design methodology. Initially, information was collected, research questions were formulated and starting points were established through a literature study. The first phase, system analysis, outlined the transport and installation methodology and defined the design criteria. Subsequently, the design of the bottom-fixed structure, which could be installed using the frame was explored. Finally, the limitations of the transport and installation methodology were examined, particularly focusing on the maximum angle of heel, natural period, and the weather window.
Towards the conclusion of the thesis, an evaluation is presented regarding the feasibility of the frame for bottom-fixed wind. This includes an initial design for the bottom-fixed structure and the transport and installation methodology, based on the integrated installation method for a 15 MW wind turbine. The transport and installation methodology in this thesis focuses on the compression principle. In which the Transport and Installation Frame remains at the waterline and the bottom-fixed structure is lowered to the seabed at 80 meters by pushing it with spud piles down. This study identifies critical stages and associated issues related to static stability, maximum heeling angles, deck or edge immersion, spud pile strength, seabed placement, and the natural periods in heave and pitch.
The results of the design research indicate that, within the identified limitations, there are no significant unresolved issues affecting the feasibility of the transport and installation frame for bottom-fixed wind. This conclusion is based on analyses focused on static and strength analysis. To assess the technical feasibility, it is recommended that the specifications of the weather window be refined, static optimisation be performed, and critical issues related to dynamic behavior be addressed, specifically during seabed placement and dynamic responses to external forces. To further develop this project and explore the profitability, it is recommended to obtain an overview of the specific location, costs, and installation time.
The aim of this research project is to assess the feasibility of the Transport and Installation Frame for bottom-fixed wind. The research question has been answered using a systematic design methodology. Initially, information was collected, research questions were formulated and starting points were established through a literature study. The first phase, system analysis, outlined the transport and installation methodology and defined the design criteria. Subsequently, the design of the bottom-fixed structure, which could be installed using the frame was explored. Finally, the limitations of the transport and installation methodology were examined, particularly focusing on the maximum angle of heel, natural period, and the weather window.
Towards the conclusion of the thesis, an evaluation is presented regarding the feasibility of the frame for bottom-fixed wind. This includes an initial design for the bottom-fixed structure and the transport and installation methodology, based on the integrated installation method for a 15 MW wind turbine. The transport and installation methodology in this thesis focuses on the compression principle. In which the Transport and Installation Frame remains at the waterline and the bottom-fixed structure is lowered to the seabed at 80 meters by pushing it with spud piles down. This study identifies critical stages and associated issues related to static stability, maximum heeling angles, deck or edge immersion, spud pile strength, seabed placement, and the natural periods in heave and pitch.
The results of the design research indicate that, within the identified limitations, there are no significant unresolved issues affecting the feasibility of the transport and installation frame for bottom-fixed wind. This conclusion is based on analyses focused on static and strength analysis. To assess the technical feasibility, it is recommended that the specifications of the weather window be refined, static optimisation be performed, and critical issues related to dynamic behavior be addressed, specifically during seabed placement and dynamic responses to external forces. To further develop this project and explore the profitability, it is recommended to obtain an overview of the specific location, costs, and installation time.