Hydrodynamic performance of a barge FOWT platform: multi-chamber OWC-integrated moonpool

The integration of wave energy converters with floating offshore wind turbines (FOWT) offers a promising pathway to reduce the levelised cost of energy for multipurpose floating platforms. This study numerically investigates the hydrodynamic and power capture performance of a barge-type FOWT platform equipped with a multi-chamber moonpool integrating individual Oscillating Water Column units. The objective is to clarify how internal subdivision of the moonpool affects platform motion and wave energy conversion efficiency. Nine internal configurations – differentiated by partition number and orientation – were analysed using a high-fidelity volume of fluid-based numerical model in OpenFOAM, validated against experimental data. Results show that internal subdivision is a key design parameter, revealing a trade-off between motion response and energy extraction. Increasing chamber count enhances OWC air-flux response, with the grid-type layout providing the strongest performance. Under peak conditions, energy capture exceeded 400% compared with the baseline single-chamber design. However, this enhanced capture is accompanied by moderate amplification of heave motion at higher wave frequencies. A point of diminishing returns was identified beyond nine chambers.