Response Of Wind Turbine Blades Research Articles

Numerical Simulation Method for the Aeroelasticity of Flexible Wind Turbine Blades under Standstill Conditions

With the trend towards larger and lighter designs of wind turbines, blades are progressively being developed to have longer and more flexible configurations. Under standstill conditions, the separated flow induced by a wide range of incident flow angles can cause complex aerodynamic elastic phenomena on blades. However, classical momentum blade element theory methods show limited applicability at high angles of attack, leading to significant inaccuracies in wind turbine performance prediction. In this paper, the geometrically accurate beam theory and high-fidelity CFD method are combined to establish a bidirectional fluid–structure coupling model, which can be used for the prediction of the aeroelastic response of wind turbine blades and the analysis of fluid–structure coupling. Aeroelastic calculations are carried out for a single blade under different working conditions to analyze the influence of turbulence, gravity and other parameters on the aeroelastic response of the blade. The results show that the dominant frequency of the vibration deformation response in the edgewise direction is always the same as the first-order edgewise frequency of the blade when the incoming flow condition is changed. The loading of gravity will make the aeroelastic destabilization of the blade more significant, which indicates that the influence of gravity should be taken into account in the design of the aeroelasticity of the wind turbine. Increasing the turbulence intensity will change the dominant frequency of the vibration response in the edgewise direction, and at the same time, it will be beneficial to the stabilization of the aeroelasticity response.

Static response of wind turbine blades: Comparison of low- and high-fidelity numerical models

As wind turbine blades become longer and more flexible, the structural models employed in current aeroelastic simulation tools, usually based on beam formulations, are challenged. Effects previously considered negligible in the response of these beam-like structures might now become significant to obtain accurate predictions of their behaviour. To assess this, a test matrix covering key geometric and material characteristics of wind turbine blades is defined and three test cases are analysed as an initial stage of this study. For each case, the static deflection of the beam model from the aeroelastic tool HAWC2 is compared against higher-fidelity shell/solid finite element models. Three structures are studied: an isotropic box beam, a composite box beam and a 12.6 m wind turbine blade from DTU. A good match is observed for the box beam test cases, which study the effects of out-of-plane and distortion warping and bend-twist coupling. Important aspects of high-fidelity models (such as end effects) are highlighted. The study of the DTU 12.6 m blade shows a significant difference (15%) in the torsion natural frequencies of the beam model, though a good agreement in twist angle under torsional loading. More pronounced differences in twist angle are observed when a load distribution based on the steady state response is applied, likely resulting from challenges in modelling complex structural features and three-dimensional effects.

Verification of Euler–Bernoulli beam theory model for wind blade structure analysis

This paper presents a computational tool for analyzing the structural response of wind turbine blades using the advanced Euler–Bernoulli Beam theory. The objective is to achieve efficient computation of blade structural response under aerodynamic loading without sacrificing computational accuracy. This study involves the development of a Python-based computer program as a numerical tool, which utilizes inputs such as blade geometry and aerodynamic loading from Blade Element Momentum theory. The program outputs axially varying moments of inertia, spatial deflections of the blade, and stress distributions within the blade. The numerical tool is verified by comparing the results with both analytical solutions and far more time-consuming commercial finite element solvers. One of the key contribution of this research is the application of the polygon algorithm, which efficiently calculates the moments of inertia of web-stiffened turbine blades along the blade length. It is shown herein that this algorithm significantly reduces computational time while maintaining numerical accuracy as compared to the results obtained from commercially available finite element codes. The study confirms that the advanced Euler–Bernoulli beam theory, when combined with the polygon algorithm, is capable of accurately predicting the structural response of cambered and twisted wind turbine blades during the initial design phase.

Modelling of aero-mechanical response of wind turbine blade with damages by computational fluid dynamics, finite element analysis and Bayesian network

Computational Fluid Dynamics and Finite Element Analysis structural models are developed for generation of large datasets of high-fidelity aerodynamic loading, displacement and stress for the NREL 5 MW wind turbine blade. Based on the datasets, analysis of structural responses of the turbine blade and their possible shifts with respect to a change in the operating conditions, e.g. rotor plane tilting and yawing, are performed. A Bayesian Network model is trained to produce ranges of values and likelihoods of occurrence of abnormal structural response or the most likely damage in the blade from inputs of operating conditions. The numerical analysis showed that yawing and tilting of rotor plane has very strong influence on the performance of a wind turbine. The out-of-plane bending is the dominant mode of the rotor blade while twisting and other complex modes of displacement could be more significant during some operating conditions such as at high tilt and yaw angles. The Bayesian Network is capable of computing probability mass functions of mechanical stress or displacement of the blade given a rotor rotation speed and a type of damage or vice versa, identifying a type of damage given a measured stress distribution level.

Influence of Turbulence Intensity on the Aerodynamic Performance of Wind Turbines Based on the Fluid-Structure Coupling Method

The deformation and vibration of wind turbine blades in turbulent environment cannot be ignored; therefore, in order to better ensure the safety of wind turbine blades, the study of air-elastic response of wind turbine blades under turbulent wind is indispensable. In this paper, the NREL 5MW wind turbine blades are modeled with accurate 3D lay-up design, firstly, based on the joint simulation of commercial software STAR CCM+ and ABAQUS, the two-way fluid-solid coupling technology, the wind turbine under uniform wind condition is simulated, and the results from thrust, torque, structural deformation and force perspective and FAST are compared with good accuracy and consistency below the rated wind speed. Secondly, the aerodynamic performance, flow field distribution and structural response of turbulent winds with different turbulence strengths at 10 m/s were studied. The results show that the turbulence intensity has a greater impact on the amplitude of the wind turbine blade, and the stress distribution of the blade is more concentrated, which in turns affects the stability and safety of the wind turbine blade and is not conducive to the normal operation of the wind turbine.

Effect of tunneling cracks on structural property degradation of wind turbine blades

In this study, a multi-scale structural approach is used to analyze the effect of tunneling cracks on the structural response of wind turbine blades. In this approach, a 2D finite-element-based cross-section analysis and a continuum damage mechanics model are combined to efficiently predict the variation in cross-section stiffnesses and natural frequencies of the blades as a function of the tunneling crack density. By applying this approach to an 86.35-meter wind turbine blade, it is shown how the level of variation of these structural properties depends not only on the degradation of the material properties due to the presence of tunneling cracks but also on the spatial characteristics of the different cross-section regions along the blade, such as spar caps, trailing-edge panels, etc.

Condition monitoring and vibration analysis of asynchronous generator of the wind turbine at high uncertain windy regions in India

Wind energy is abundant in nature and it is important to harvest the maximum quantity of energy from it. The loss of energy conversion occurs in a wind turbine is due to improper maintenance and lag of condition monitoring system. If the wind turbine is controlled appropriately then the efficiency will be eventually increased. The ultimate aim of condition monitoring and vibration analysis is to offer an advance warning of failures or performance issues in the generator of the wind turbine. The previous researches on vibration in wind turbine mainly concentrate on the vibration response of wind turbine blades and structure only based on their dynamic properties but this paper takes into account dynamic properties, operating conditions, and environmental impact to study the condition monitoring of the 250 kW wind turbine generator. The generator of the wind turbine is attached with the gearbox in a cantilever position and the chances of vibration and failure are high, once the generator is caught failure then it is beside difficult to de-erect it. Therefore, consistency in the running of the generator is very much significant. The replacement of the generator is too expensive and it ingests a large time. Hence the condition monitoring and vibration analysis of the 4 pole, asynchronous generator of the wind turbine is studied in this paper to diminish the key failure and augment the power generation of the 250 kW constant pitch and constant speed wind turbine in Muppandal, India.

Experimental analysis of mechanical vibration in 225 kW wind turbine gear box

The wind turbines installed now-a-days faces huge losses in its efficiency due to vibration of their components. If the vibration of the wind turbine is controlled properly then the efficiency will be ultimately increased. The past researches on vibration in wind turbine mainly concentrates over the vibration response of wind turbine blades and power drive system only based on their dynamic properties but this paper take into account dynamic properties, operating conditions and environmental impact to study the vibration characteristics of the 225 kW wind turbine gear box. The gear box is the costliest part of wind turbine and once if the gear box is got failure then the entire nacelle might be de-erected. Therefore, trustworthiness of nozzle is very important. The replacement of gearbox overheads high cost and it consumes large time. Hence the vibration analysis of wind turbine is studied in this paper to reduce the major failure and enhance the power generation of the 225 kW constant pitch and constant speed wind turbine in Muppandal, India.

Effects of inflow turbulence on structural response of wind turbine blades

A better understanding of the intense interaction between the turbulent inflow and rotating wind turbine components is critical to accelerating the path towards larger wind turbines. The present investigation provides the first field characterization of the influence of turbulent inflow on the blade structural response of a utility-scale wind turbine, using the unique facility available at the Eolos Wind Energy Research Station. A representative dataset under a stable atmosphere is selected for the characterization, including the inflow turbulent data measured from the meteorological tower, high-resolution blade strain measurement at different circumferential and radiation positions along the blade, and the wind turbine operational conditions. The results indicate that the blade response to turbulence shows distinct trends under three scale ranges. The blade structure responds strongly to the turbulent inflow in the lower and intermediate ranges, while it is primarily dominated by the rotation effect and other high-frequency characteristics of the turbine in higher frequencies. Moreover, the blade structural behaviors at different azimuth angles, circumferential and radial locations along the blade are compared, suggesting the comparatively high possibility of structural failure at certain positions. Further, the present study uncovers the linkage between the turbulent inflow and blade structural response using temporal correlation.

Modal properties and stability of bend–twist coupled wind turbine blades

Abstract. Coupling between bending and twist has a significant influence on the aeroelastic response of wind turbine blades. The coupling can arise from the blade geometry (e.g. sweep, prebending, or deflection under load) or from the anisotropic properties of the blade material. Bend–twist coupling can be utilized to reduce the fatigue loads of wind turbine blades. In this study the effects of material-based coupling on the aeroelastic modal properties and stability limits of the DTU 10 MW Reference Wind Turbine are investigated. The modal properties are determined by means of eigenvalue analysis around a steady-state equilibrium using the aero-servo-elastic tool HAWCStab2 which has been extended by a beam element that allows for fully coupled cross-sectional properties. Bend–twist coupling is introduced in the cross-sectional stiffness matrix by means of coupling coefficients that introduce twist for flapwise (flap–twist coupling) or edgewise (edge–twist coupling) bending. Edge–twist coupling can increase or decrease the damping of the edgewise mode relative to the reference blade, depending on the operational condition of the turbine. Edge–twist to feather coupling for edgewise deflection towards the leading edge reduces the inflow speed at which the blade becomes unstable. Flap–twist to feather coupling for flapwise deflections towards the suction side increase the frequency and reduce damping of the flapwise mode. Flap–twist to stall reduces frequency and increases damping. The reduction of blade root flapwise and tower bottom fore–aft moments due to variations in mean wind speed of a flap–twist to feather blade are confirmed by frequency response functions.

Effect of linear and non-linear blade modelling techniques on simulated fatigue and extreme loads using Bladed

There is a trend in the wind industry towards ever larger and more flexible turbine blades. Blade tip deflections in modern blades now commonly exceed 10% of blade length. Historically, the dynamic response of wind turbine blades has been analysed using linear models of blade deflection which include the assumption of small deflections. For modern flexible blades, this assumption is becoming less valid. In order to continue to simulate dynamic turbine performance accurately, routine use of non-linear models of blade deflection may be required. This can be achieved by representing the blade as a connected series of individual flexible linear bodies - referred to in this paper as the multi-part approach. In this paper, Bladed is used to compare load predictions using single-part and multi-part blade models for several turbines. The study examines the impact on fatigue and extreme loads and blade deflection through reduced sets of load calculations based on IEC 61400-1 ed. 3. Damage equivalent load changes of up to 16% and extreme load changes of up to 29% are observed at some turbine load locations. It is found that there is no general pattern in the loading differences observed between single-part and multi-part blade models. Rather, changes in fatigue and extreme loads with a multi-part blade model depend on the characteristics of the individual turbine and blade. Key underlying causes of damage equivalent load change are identified as differences in edgewise- torsional coupling between the multi-part and single-part models, and increased edgewise rotor mode damping in the multi-part model. Similarly, a causal link is identified between torsional blade dynamics and changes in ultimate load results.

Nonlinear modeling of tuned liquid dampers (TLDs) in rotating wind turbine blades for damping edgewise vibrations

Tuned liquid dampers (TLDs) utilize the sloshing motion of the fluid to suppress structural vibrations and become a natural candidate for damping vibrations in rotating wind turbine blades. The centrifugal acceleration at the tip of a wind turbine blade can reach a magnitude of 7–8g. This facilitates the use of a TLD with a relatively small fluid mass and with feasible geometric dimensions to mitigate the lightly-damped edgewise vibrations effectively. In the present paper, modal expansions are carried out directly on the velocity field and the free surface of the sloshing liquid in the rotating coordinate system. A formulation has been proposed leading to coupled nonlinear ordinary differential equations, which have been obtained through the Galerkin variational approach together with the modal expansion technique. Two models, with one sloshing mode and three sloshing modes, have been studied in the numerical simulation. It is shown that the one-mode model is able to predict the sloshing force and the damped structural response accurately, since the primary damping effect on the structure is achieved by the first sloshing mode of the fluid. Although it is unable to predict the fluid free-surface elevation equally well, the one-mode model can still be utilized for the design of TLD. Parametric optimization of the TLD is carried out based on the one-mode model, and the optimized damper effectively improves the dynamic response of wind turbine blades.

Damping of edgewise vibration in wind turbine blades by means of circular liquid dampers

AbstractThis paper proposes a new type of passive vibration control damper for controlling edgewise vibrations of wind turbine blades. The damper is a variant of the liquid column damper and is termed as a circular liquid column damper (CLCD). Rotating wind turbine blades generally experience a large centrifugal acceleration. This centrifugal acceleration makes the use of this kind of oscillatory liquid damper feasible with a small mass ratio to effectively suppress edgewise vibrations. A reduced 2‐DOF non‐linear model is used for tuning the CLCD attached to a rotating wind turbine blade, ignoring the coupling between the blade and the tower. The performance of the damper is evaluated under various rotational speeds of the rotor. A special case in which the rotational speed is so small that the gravity dominates the motion of the liquid is also investigated. Further, the legitimacy of the decoupled optimization is verified by incorporating the optimized damper into a more sophisticated 13‐DOF aeroelastic wind turbine model with due consideration to the coupled blade‐tower‐drivetrain vibrations of the wind turbine as well as a pitch controller. The numerical results from the illustrations on a 5 and a 10MW wind turbine machine indicate that the CLCD at an optimal tuning can effectively suppress the dynamic response of wind turbine blades. Copyright © 2015 John Wiley & Sons, Ltd.

Analysis of Nonlinear Dynamic Response of Wind Turbine Blade Under Fluid–Structure Interaction and Turbulence Effect

In this paper, the entity model of a 1.5 MW offshore wind turbine blade was built by Pro/Engineer software. Fluid flow control equations described by arbitrary Lagrange–Euler (ALE) were established, and the theoretical model of geometrically nonlinear vibration characteristics under fluid–structure interaction (FSI) was given. The simulation of offshore turbulent wind speed was achieved by programming in Matlab. The brandish displacement, the Mises stress distribution and nonlinear dynamic response curves were obtained. Furthermore, the influence of turbulence and FSI on blade dynamic characteristics was studied. The results show that the response curves of maximum brandish displacement and maximum Mises stress present the attenuation trends. The region of the maximum displacement and maximum stress and their variations at different blade positions are revealed. It was shown that the contribution of turbulence effect (TE) on displacement and stress is smaller than that of the FSI effect, and its extent of contribution is related to the relative span length. In addition, it was concluded that the simulation considering bidirectional FSI (BFSI) can reflect the vibration characteristics of wind turbine blades more accurately.

Mitigation of edgewise vibrations in wind turbine blades by means of roller dampers

Edgewise vibrations in wind turbine blades are lightly damped, and large amplitude vibrations induced by the turbulence may significantly shorten the fatigue life of the blade. This paper investigates the performance of roller dampers for mitigation of edgewise vibrations in rotating wind turbine blades. Normally, the centrifugal acceleration of the rotating blade can reach to a magnitude of 7–8g, which makes it possible to use this kind of damper with a relatively small mass ratio for suppressing edgewise vibrations effectively. The parameters of the damper to be optimized are the mass ratio, the frequency ratio, the coefficient of rolling friction and the position of the damper in the blade. The optimization of these parameters has been carried out on a reduced 2-DOF nonlinear model of the rotating wind turbine blade equipped with a roller damper in terms of a ball or a cylinder, ignoring the coupling with other degrees of freedom of the wind turbine. The edgewise modal loading on the blade has been calculated from a more sophisticated 13-DOF aeroelastic wind turbine model with due consideration to the indicated couplings, the turbulence and the aerodynamic damping. Various turbulence intensities and mean wind speeds have been considered to evaluate the effectiveness of the roller damper in reducing edgewise vibrations when the working conditions of the wind turbine are changed. Further, the optimized roller damper is incorporated into the 13-DOF wind turbine model to verify the application of the decoupled optimization. The results indicate that the proposed damper can effectively improve the structural response of wind turbine blades.

Edgewise vibration control of wind turbine blades using roller and liquid dampers

This paper deals with the passive vibration control of edgewise vibrations by means of roller dampers and tuned liquid column dampers (TLCDs). For a rotating blade, the large centrifugal acceleration makes it possible to use roller dampers or TLCDs with rather small masses for effectively suppressing edgewise vibrations. The roller dampers are more volumetrically efficient due to the higher mass density of the steel comparing with the liquid. On the other hand, TLCDs have their advantage that it is easier to specify the optimum damping of the damper by changing the opening ratio of the orifice. In this paper, 2-DOF nonlinear models are suggested for tuning a roller damper or a TLCD attached to a rotating wind turbine blade, ignoring the coupling between the blade and the tower. The decoupled optimization is verified by incorporating the optimized damper into a more sophisticated 13- DOF wind turbine model with due consideration of the coupled blade-tower-drivetrain vibrations, quasi-static aeroelasticity as well as a collective pitch controller. Performances of the dampers are compared in terms of the control efficiency and the practical applications. The results indicate that roller dampers and TLCDs at optimal tuning can effectively suppress the dynamic response of wind turbine blades.

An overview of active load control techniques for wind turbines with an emphasis on microtabs

AbstractThis paper outlines the benefits and challenges of utilizing active flow control (AFC) for wind turbines. The goal of AFC is to mitigate damaging loads and control the aeroelastic response of wind turbine blades. This can be accomplished by sensing changes in turbine operation and activating devices to adjust the sectional lift coefficient and/or local angle of attack. Fifteen AFC devices are introduced, and four are described in more detail. Non‐traditional trailing‐edge flaps, plasma actuators, vortex generator jets and microtabs are examples of devices that hold promise for wind turbine control. The microtab system is discussed in further detail including recent experimental results demonstrating its effectiveness in a three‐dimensional environment. Wind tunnel tests indicated that a nearly constant change in CL over a wide range of angles of attack is possible with microtab control. Using an angle of attack of 5 degrees as a reference, microtabs with a height of 1.5%c were capable of increasing CL by +0.21 (37%) and decreasing CL by −0.23 (−40%). The results are consistent with findings from past two‐dimensional experiments and numerical efforts. Through comparisons to other load control studies, the controllable range of this microtab system is determined to be suitable for smart blade applications. Copyright © 2009 John Wiley & Sons, Ltd.