Review of Horizontal Bearing Behavior of Monopod and Tripod Suction Bucket Foundations for Offshore Wind Turbines

Abstract

As a foundation solution for offshore wind turbines, suction bucket foundations offer significant advantages in resisting high-intensity horizontal loads induced by wind and waves. This paper systematically reviews the research progress on the horizontal bearing behavior of monopod and tripod suction bucket foundations. It summarizes the methods for determining the ultimate horizontal bearing capacity, the variation pattern of the rotational center position, the failure modes, and influencing factors for monopod foundations. The applications and limitations of analytical methods, including the limit equilibrium method, limit analysis method, and subgrade reaction methods are critically discussed. Subsequently, the current research status on the pile group effect of tripod suction bucket foundations, the variation patterns of bearing capacity with spacing and load direction, as well as layout optimization, has been reviewed. Conclusively, the paper identifies existing research gaps, such as the influence of drainage conditions in silty clay, the lack of robust theoretical calculation models for the bearing capacity of tripod foundations, and insufficient research on the bearing mechanisms of non-standard tripod configurations. Recommendations for future research directions are provided.