Assessing loading regimes and failure modes of marine power cables in marine energy applications

Abstract
The paper describes the parameters and results of a dynamic computational model that investigates the umbilical load conditions for a generic wave energy converter. Two geometric configurations of a double armoured power cable are considered, a catenary and a Lazy Wave shape. The model is set up using the dynamic analysis package OrcaFlex and uses top-end motions measured in 1:20 wave tank tests. While the simple catenary shape experiences high tensional forces at the attachment point and considerable compression, the maximum tensional forces can be significantly reduced and compression is avoided with a Lazy Wave shape.