RATZ and Reduction O&M cost of WT Blades

Topics:

1. Modification of the “Root Area and transition Zone” of wind turbine blades with a load distribution Floor to avoid structural defects induced by fatigue loading.

2. Product development of Floor component solution for two different blade types/sizes. A large demonstration test program will be performed with both full-scale testing and large-scale and sub-structure testing. All tests are performed with fatigue loads.

3. Reduction of O&M cost by better cost simulation based on better statistic (G2D database). Cost models, tests and standards.

4. Lifetime prediction using a fracture mechanics approach.

Along with the product development and demonstration of the technology, the commercial aspects such as market barriers will be investigated. The project also includes how to improve the understanding of failure rates, failure development and the coupling to the associated cost in operation and maintenance.

The results will be used to optimize the design and operation of wind turbines, with the main focus to overall reduce the Levelised cost of energy, and further increase profitability and reduce risk in utilizing wind energy.