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Lookup NU author(s): Professor Zhiqiang HuORCiD
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© 2026 Elsevier Ltd. This paper investigates the failure mechanisms of submarine Cable–Bend Restrictor Systems (CBRS) observed in several offshore wind farms under the combined effects of seabed scour and wave–current interaction. Dynamic response and strength analysis models were developed in OrcaFlex and Abaqus, enabling a coupled evaluation of the cable’s global dynamic behavior and the bend restrictor’s structural integrity. The results show that, for the suspended section of the cable, wave–current loading induces significant dynamic forces on the CBRS, with the dynamic bend moment serving as the governing load. During the scour-pit development stage (0–5.5 m), the increase in suspended span length further amplifies the system’s dynamic response. Sensitivity analysis further reveals that wave height has a major influence on extreme responses, while long-period waves intensify the drag effect on the suspended span, substantially increasing the dynamic load. Local finite element analysis demonstrates that, under extreme sea states, the instantaneous stress in the stress-concentration region at the bend restrictor’s upper connection exceeds the material strength, indicating a high risk of structural failure.This study clarifies the failure mechanism of bend restrictors, shows that existing standards do not sufficiently address CBRS design requirements, and underscores the necessity of incorporating detailed dynamic load analysis.
Author(s): Wang Z, Zeng D, Hu Z, Qu Y
Publication type: Article
Publication status: Published
Journal: Marine Structures
Year: 2026
Volume: 110
Print publication date: 15/09/2026
Online publication date: 13/06/2026
Acceptance date: 07/06/2026
ISSN (print): 0951-8339
ISSN (electronic): 1873-4170
Publisher: Elsevier Ltd
URL: https://doi.org/10.1016/j.marstruc.2026.104145
DOI: 10.1016/j.marstruc.2026.104145
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