Optimization of wind turbine design for SWECS. Final report, October 1, 1981-October 1, 1983
Current research to optimize wind turbine designs centers on the most important parameter, the useful lifetime of the rotor assembly. The original cost and maintenance of this portion of a wind machine has traditionally been the most important factor in cost effectiveness. Thus, the effort under this project has concentrated on a rotor design which promises to extend the lifetime of the full rotor assembly. That design improvement includes the integration of a teetered rotor hub and a delta-3 angle. This design concept was proven in helicopter and rotor craft applications. The adaptation to wind turbines has been the primary task of this appropriate technology utilization project. Test rotors, incorporating the teetering hub, delta-3 angle design, have been constructed and tested. The research model provides a full range of settings for a complete evaluation of the relevant parameters; e.g. the delta-3 angle is variable from +70 to -70/sup 0/, the rotor position may be varied fore and aft of the teeter axis, the teeter spring rate is continuously variable, also the teeter and yaw stops are adjustable. The use of a dc generator permits the rotor to change angular speed with wind speed. The lack of a yaw drive allows the rotor to display its own passive yawing rates and accommodation factors as a function of delta-3 angle, rotor-axis position, and teeter spring rate settings. Test rotors and wind machines were assembled for data collection. The equipment was designed specifically for research, i.e., with a range of variables so that the relevant parameters could be evaluated. The controlled velocity testing (CVI) method was adapted for rapid, inexpensive data collection. This technique replaces the more expensive wind tunnel tests. By mounting the test machine and wind turbine above a small truck the testing process was facilitated. The adaptation of the CVT technique expedited this project and set an example for future low cost use of the CVT technique.
- Research Organization:
- Bryant (Paul J.), Prairie Village, KS (USA)
- DOE Contract Number:
- FG47-81R701221
- OSTI ID:
- 5068391
- Report Number(s):
- DOE/R7/01221-T4; ON: DE84009759
- Country of Publication:
- United States
- Language:
- English
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