Centrifuge study on effect of installation method on lateral response of monopiles in sand

Monopiles used as foundations for offshore wind turbines can be installed using different methods including jacking, vibratory driving and impact driving. Significant research efforts have been dedicated to the characterisation of monopile−soil interaction under lateral loading, mainly p–y curves. There has also extensive in quantifying effect installation on axial response numerical modelling physical techniques. Little attention paid method subsequent a monopile in-service condition. In this paper, purpose-designed apparatus is described that allows in-flight followed directly by loading without stopping centrifuge thus retaining installation-induced stress state. Test results from three tests are discussed, with piles either jacked at 1g Ng or driven into dry medium dense sand, allowing initial stiffness ultimate capacity examined. The successfully conducted illustrate capabilities new testing laterally loaded piles.