Non-destructive examination (NDE) methods for dynamic subsea cables for offshore renewable energy

Abstract Offshore renewable energy installations are moving into more challenging environments where fixed foundations not economically viable, forcing the development of floating platforms. Subsea cables critical for transfer power generated back to shore. The electrical capabilities subsea well understood; however, structural not, cable failures accounting a significant proportion insurance claims. Cables repair, with specific vessels and good weather windows required, therefore making operations very costly. A understanding internal structure cable, interaction between layers, is integral robust reliable, high voltage, dynamic, cables. requirement exists non-destructive examination (NDE) live determine locations, identify causes, faults classify their type. An NDE framework such as this would assist in planning reduce risk cost inherent delivering offshore power. Improved failure modes mechanisms could also be achieved through us during onshore, dry, experimental testing. Three currently available methods considered, developed use other disciplines, purpose monitoring onshore evaluation were: (a) thermography, (b) eddy current testing (ECT), (c) spread spectrum time domain reflectometry (SSTDR). assessed regards information that obtained from both static oscillating pilot physical tests. results were promising, motions interlayer movements being detected by all techniques various degrees.