Linear Static Analysis and Computational Validation of a Composite Wind Turbine Blade

Abstract: Wind power energy is getting more shares in the total energy production every year, with wind turbines growing bigger and bigger at the rhythm of technology. Wind turbines can be classified ( in a first) approximation according to its rotor axis orientation and the type of aerodynamic forces used to take energy from wind. The blade is the most important component in a wind turbine which nowadays is designed according to a refined aerodynamic science in order to capture the maximum energy from the wind. Blades of horizontal axis are now completely made of composite materials. Composite materials satisfy complex design constraints such as lower weight and proper stiffness, while providing good resistance to the static and fatigue loading. An experiment conducted by Xiao Chen (Institute of Engineering Thermo physics, Chinese Academy of Sciences) and others on similar profile and tried to determine various fracture modes in it. Material used by them was a combination of epoxy glass resin and PVC. Using the guidelines set by the experiment, the blade was modelled using SOLIDWORKS and analyzed using Solid works FEA solver- Composite Material Module for superior materials like windstrand. The dynamic response of the system too was studied. Keywords: Wind energy; blade geometry; Composite; Static Analysis; Dynamic Response; FEA.