A systematic review of mechanical behaviour of dynamic power cables for offshore renewable energy

Floating offshore wind turbines, and floating energy devices in general, require a power export cable that moves with the floater. Such power cables are termed dynamic cables. These cables are subject to a series of different time varying loads. Consequently, compared to conventional static subsea cables, more robust mechanical designs are required and predicting cable behaviour is more challenging. This paper presents a systematic review of the mechanical design and behaviour of dynamic power cables. After initial screening, the literature search yielded 4791 results, of which 92 published articles dealing specifically with double-armour dynamic power export cables were analysed in depth. It identifies the state-of-the-art in contemporary cable design, reports the key methodologies and conclusions reached in recent academic studies and identifies a series of areas in need of further research. It is hoped that the paper will provide a basis for the future research and technological development.