Ultrasonic Guided Wave-Based Structural Health Monitoring for Early Detection and Localization of Multiple Damages in Composite Wind-Turbine Blades

Abstract

Wind energy plays a pivotal role in the transition to renewable energy sources. However, the reliability of wind turbine blades (WTBs) is often compromised by damage. This urges the increasing need for advanced Structural Health Monitoring (SHM) techniques to ensure the durability and reliability of WTBs. The current study investigates the application of the Ultrasonic Guided Wave (UGW) technique as a nondestructive evaluation (NDE) method for the early detection and localisation of multiple damages in composite WTBs. In this research, a network of three piezoelectric patches is strategically positioned on the blade’s surface to excite guided waves and capture the scattered signals. The study focuses on localising the damages, such as impact damage, surface cracks and their combination. Finite Element (FE) modelling is utilised to simulate wave propagation in the complex composite WTB. A novel damage index mapping approach, based on signal energy difference and time-of-flight (ToF) analysis, is employed to approximate defect locations. The proposed methodology effectively demonstrates the capability to detect and locate the various damage types with significant accuracy. This research contributes to the advancement of intelligent SHM systems for wind energy applications, facilitating autonomous, data-driven maintenance strategies for efficient damage assessment.