There are three main types of floating platforms for wind turbines. The three main types off platforms are the Semi-submersibles (Semi-Subs), the Tension Leg Platforms (TLPs) and the Spar Buoys (a spar is a mast or a stout pole).
Several alternatives have been tried to these three main types, including one by MUPFLOST, the CARROT “true” SPAR (Single Point of Anchorage Reservoir), but, so far, none of these alternatives revealed to be viable. The patent (PAT 107474 H) was already accepted by the Portuguese Patent Office and presently is at the public consultation phase.
The floating platform uses only one anchor and mooring, therefore the name “true” SPAR (Single Point of Anchorage Reservoir). Nowadays the SPAR acronym is almost always used for multi-point of anchorage reservoirs. We use only one anchor and therefore we called it “true” SPAR.
The floating platform consists essentially of a fully submerged, reinforced concrete, vertical elongated inverted cone with rounded corners. The shape of the platform is similar to a “carrot” therefore it is named Carrot “true” SPAR.
In the next picture we can see, from the top to the bottom: a 8 MW offshore wind turbine, the steel transition tower (painted yellow), the Carrot “true” SPAR floating platform (the inside load distribution system is also show), the tubular steel mooring and finally the gravity (dead weight) anchor.
Project MUPFLOST 