Aerodynamic assessments of wind turbines

Wind energy developers and project teams need reliable aerodynamic input when wind turbines are planned in hilly or mountainous terrain or when blades, instruments and measuring equipment may be exposed to sub-zero temperatures. In these situations, uncertainty about local wind conditions or icing can make it harder to assess turbine locations and measurement conditions.

Wind conditions and icing in wind energy projects

Aerodynamic investigations provide a precise description of wind conditions across a site and support assessment of how ice accretion affects blades, components and instruments. This gives developers a clearer basis for evaluating site conditions and the aerodynamic factors that influence wind turbine projects.

Complex terrain makes local wind conditions harder to assess

In hilly or mountainous terrain, wind conditions vary across the site and must be considered to identify efficient locations for wind turbines. If these variations are not investigated, the basis for evaluating possible turbine positions becomes less precise.

Planned measurement positions can be difficult to judge

Wind conditions for planned positions of anemometers at or near the site may differ from conditions recorded at existing meteorological stations in the surrounding area. Without this comparison, the local measurement situation can be harder to interpret.

Ice accretion can affect performance and readings

For wind turbines and measuring equipment placed in areas with frequent or occasional sub-zero temperatures, ice accretion must be considered. Ice on blades can reduce turbine efficiency and cause undesirable aerodynamic vibrations or instability, while icing on instruments can lead to erroneous readings or permanent failure.