Lightning-accommodation systems for wind-turbine-generator safety

Conference · Thu Jan 01 04:00:00 EST 1981

OSTI ID:6388250

Bankaitis, H.

Wind turbine generators are being evaluated as alternate sources of electrical energy. The wind turbine safety program identifies the naturally occurring lightning phenomenon as a hazard with the potential to cause loss of program objectives, injure personnel, damage system instrumentation, structure or support equipment and facilities. The Lewis Research Center is responsible for the development of large wind turbines in the 100 kW to multimegawatt size range. In support of this program, several candidate methods of lightning accommodation for each blade have been designed, analyzed, and tested by submitting sample blade sections to simulated lightning. At the present time, lightning accommodation systems for composite blades are being individually developed. Their effectiveness is evaluated by submitting the systems to simulated lightning strikes. The test data are analyzed and system designs are reviewed on the basis of the analysis. This activity is directed at defining design and procedural constraints, requirements for safety devices and warning methods, special procedures, protective equipment and personnel training.

• Research Organization: National Aeronautics and Space Administration, Cleveland, OH (USA). Lewis Research Center
• DOE Contract Number: AI01-76ET20320
• OSTI ID: 6388250
• Report Number(s): DOE/NASA/20320-31; NASA-TM-82601; CONF-810721-2
• Country of Publication: United States
• Language: English

Related Subjects

17 WIND ENERGY
170602* -- Wind Energy Engineering-- Turbine Design & Operation
DAMAGE
ELECTRIC DISCHARGES
LIGHTNING
MACHINERY
POWER RANGE 1-10 MW
POWER RANGE 100-1000 KW
RESEARCH PROGRAMS
TEST FACILITIES
TURBINE BLADES
TURBINES
TURBOMACHINERY
WIND TURBINES