Application / Wind energy

Floating-Wind Buoyancy Cores

PUFOAM core blocks for floating offshore wind pontoons are manufactured, bonded and machined as a coordinated assembly. Block layout, bond quality and final geometry determine how reliably the core fits the surrounding structure.

Segmented floating-wind pontoon core design from EPTEK project presentation
EPTEK / APPLICATIONSegmented pontoon core design

Engineering requirements

From foam blocks to a fitted core

Polyurethane foam core blocks in EPTEK floating-wind presentation

01 / CORE MATERIAL

Balance weight and compression

Select the PUFOAM grade against the required density, compressive behaviour, closed-cell structure and water exposure. The core, surrounding shell and load paths must be assessed together.

02 / MANUFACTURING

Design the joints before machining

Divide the CAD model into blocks that can be bonded, fixtured, machined and transported. Retain common reference points between the bonding platform, CNC fixture and final assembly.

Engineering requirements

Control the interfaces

StageWhat must be controlled
BondingClean and prepare the foam faces; control adhesive coverage, joint gaps, positioning and clamping throughout cure.
MachiningMaintain common datums; machine mating faces, outer contours and designed bond-flow grooves without damaging the foam.
Inspection and deliveryCheck contour and joint fit; identify each block against the assembly drawing, remove dust and protect surfaces against moisture and transport damage.
Assembly validationConfirm the chosen foam and adhesive together under the project load and water-exposure conditions.