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Title: Wind direction change criteria for wind turbine design

Technical Report ·
DOI:https://doi.org/10.2172/6070193· OSTI ID:6070193

A method is presented for estimating the root mean square (rms) value of the wind direction change, ..delta..theta(tau) = theta(tau + tau) - theta(tau), that occurs over the swept area of wind turbine rotor systems. An equation is also given for the rms value of the wind direction change that occurs at a single point in space, i.e., a direcion change that a wind vane would measure. Assuming a normal probability density function for the lateral wind velocity change and relating this to angular changes, equations are given for calculating the expected number of wind direction changes, larger than an arbitrary value, that will occur in 1 hr as well as the expected number that will occur during the design life of a wind turbine. The equations presented are developed using a small angle approximation and are, therefore, considered appropriate for wind direction changes of less than 30/sup 0/. The equations presented are based upon neutral atmospheric boundary-layer conditions and do not include information regarding events such as tornados, hurricanes, etc.

Research Organization:
Battelle Pacific Northwest Labs., Richland, WA (United States)
DOE Contract Number:
EY-76-C-06-1830
OSTI ID:
6070193
Report Number(s):
PNL-2531
Country of Publication:
United States
Language:
English