Leading Edge Roughness wind turbine blades

This project will develop a inspection and interpretation technology for performing in-situ quantitative measurements of leading edge surface roughness (LER) and convert these measurements into normative measures for the aerodynamic performance of a turbine. The outcome is a quantitative, systematic and statistically based decision tool for taking economically considered corrective measures. Large scale operators are engaged in the project to secure a strong commercial relevance and technical alignment with marked and end-user requirements. Close end-user involvement is the go-to-market strategy in terms of a validated end-user recommended product to be marketed through established Power Curve sales channels. Installing power upgrades is a corrective measure to mitigate the LER-AEP effect and for balancing blade refurbishment cost. In the ongoing EUDP funded Power Pack project it is demonstrated that the AEP is less affected to all stages of LER if vortex generators are applied. To obtain the desired effect of VG’s, the actual aerodynamic performance of the blade must be known. This means that the state of surface degradation (LER) must be quantified as well as the variation along the blade profile. This is exactly the information this project is providing and thus there is a strong technology and commercial link to the Power Pack project.