Interaction and Effects of Gusts & Turbulence on Wind Turbine Performance
Project flyer 463.4 KByte
Prof. Dr. R. Abhari, Prof. Dr. N. Chokani, Dr. S. Barber,
Laboratory for Energy Conversion, ETH Zürich
Summary
Potential sites for wind farms in Switzerland are frequently in mountainous terrain, exposed to gusty, turbulent winds. These phenomena can result in efficiency losses, damage to wind turbines and lengthy, expensive outages. The aim of this project is to examine on an experimental basis the combined effects of squalls and turbulence on the performance of a wind power facility. To this end, detailed measurements and analysis of the flow fields of wind turbines will be performed, both in the original dimensions as well as in laboratory dimensions. A better understanding of the resultant effects will enable optimised technologies to be development and recommendations to be made regarding suitable sites. In particular, this project aims to assess and optimise potential sites for wind farms in Switzerland.
Project start
April 2009
