High Fidelity Analysis of Dynamic Stresses in Wind Turbine Blades

Abstract

The preliminary feasibility analysis of using Rocstar Multiphysics for high fidelity modeling and simulation of wind turbines is demonstrated in light of a simple wind turbine problem. To address some of the issues of existing open-source offerings in the multiphysics modeling of wind turbine systems, Rocstar integrates highly featured, well maintained, community-driven flow field and structural solvers. Governing equations are discussed along with the boundary conditions alongside the setup of a simple demonstrative problem. It is shown that by proper choice of materials and modifications to the structure, it is possible to limit the deflections and stress levels in turbine blades. The study is also featured by several analyses of the steady-state and dynamic response of the CFRP and GFRP blades to the wind load under normal and harsh atmospheric conditions.