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DOE OSTI · 1665792

An efficient approach to explore the solution space of a wind turbine rotor design process

Bortolotti, Pietro·Dixon, Kristian·Gaertner, Evan·Rotondo, Megan·Barter, Garrett
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Abstract

This study proposes a novel approach to explore the solution space of a wind turbine rotor design process. The goal is to offer to blade designers the possibility to select an optimal rotor for given market conditions, assessing trade-offs and alternatives in a matter of minutes. The design process consists of sequential aerodynamic-structural optimizations, where the two loops are linked via a blade-loading parameter that can be varied by the user. A design study is performed starting from the IEA Wind Task 37 land-based reference wind turbine. The solution space is characterized for rotor diameters in the range of 130–160 m, rated generator power values in the range of 3.0–6.0 MW, and tip-speed ratios in the range of 7.5–12.5. Results are discussed highlighting optimal design decisions and trade-offs.

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Bortolotti, Pietro, Dixon, Kristian, Gaertner, Evan, Rotondo, Megan, Barter, Garrett. 2020-09-22. An efficient approach to explore the solution space of a wind turbine rotor design process. https://doi.org/10.1088/1742-6596%2F1618%2F4%2F042016

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