Fatigue analysis of WECS (Wind Energy Conversion System) components using a rainflow counting algorithm

Conference · Sun Dec 31 23:00:00 EST 1989

OSTI ID:6564799

Sutherland, H J; Schluter, L L

A rainflow counting algorithm'' has been incorporated into the LIFE2 fatigue/fracture analysis code for wind turbines. The count algorithm, with its associated pre- and post-count algorithms, permits the code to incorporate time-series data into its analysis scheme. After a description of the algorithms used here, their use is illustrated by the examination of stress-time histories from the Sandia 34-m Test Bed vertical axis wind turbine. The results of the rainflow analysis are compared and contrasted to previously reported predictions for the service lifetime of the fatigue critical component for this turbine. 14 refs., 8 figs., 3 tabs.

• Research Organization: Sandia National Labs., Albuquerque, NM (USA)
• Sponsoring Organization: DOE/CE
• DOE Contract Number: AC04-76DP00789
• OSTI ID: 6564799
• Report Number(s): SAND-90-1149C; CONF-9009107--2; ON: DE91000774
• Country of Publication: United States
• Language: English

Related Subjects

17 WIND ENERGY
170602* -- Wind Energy Engineering-- Turbine Design & Operation
ALGORITHMS
COMPUTER CODES
DATA ANALYSIS
FAILURES
FATIGUE
FRACTURES
L CODES
MACHINERY
MATHEMATICAL LOGIC
MECHANICAL PROPERTIES
POWER PLANTS
SERVICE LIFE
STRESSES
TURBINES
TURBOMACHINERY
VERTICAL AXIS TURBINES
WIND POWER PLANTS
WIND TURBINES