Qingdao Qiangli Steel Structure Co., Ltd. has recently developed a new structural analysis tool for small wind turbine towers. This tool combines several structural analysis techniques and integrates them into a novel form that can be used by small wind energy designers, enabling them to gain more insight into tower and rotor dynamic interactions, system modal characteristics, and the design of a more robust and cost-effective tower.
The new tool, developed through a collaborative effort of experts in wind energy, structural engineering, and software development, uses the finite element method to model the tower structure, accommodating various configurations, including fixed monopole towers, guy-wire supported towers, and gin-pole and strut supported towers. The turbine rotor is modeled using the Equivalent Hinge-Offset Blade model, which is then coupled to the tower structure using Lagrange's equations.
The tool evaluates standard IEC Aeroelastic load cases and uses the Modal Superposition Method and Runge-Kutta 4th order numerical integration to develop transient solutions. Validation is performed through comparisons to theoretical closed-form solutions, physical laboratory test results, and peer studies.
The main problem with small wind turbine tower design, which Qingdao Qiangli's new structural analysis tool aims to address, is that vibrations, caused by a wide range of environmental and mechanical sources, can lead to reduced component life due to fatigue, noise and impaired public perception of system integrity. Furthermore, periodic turbulent wind conditions can cause system resonance, which results in significantly increased structural loads.
When it comes to small wind turbine applications, structural vibration issues become more exacerbated. Few analytical and experimental resources are available for system verification and optimization, which is why the Structural Analysis Tool developed by Qingdao Qiangli Steel Structure Co., Ltd. has become so vital.
The tool has been validated through several physical laboratory tests, peer studies, and comparisons to theoretical solutions, including tests conducted on Qingdao Qiangli Steel Structure's own Cal Poly Wind Power Research Center Wind Turbine and Tower System. The tool proved highly effective in simulating the system and optimizing hypothetical guy-wire placement to minimize tower stresses and maximize the tower's natural frequency.
Qingdao Qiangli Steel Structure Co., Ltd. is a large-scale specialized enterprise engaged in all kinds of steel structure engineering design, manufacture, and installation. The company, founded in 1998, provides one-stop services to clients, being a leader in providing large-scale steel structure projects, automation equipment, and steel structure greenhouses.
The Structural Analysis Tool developed by Qingdao Qiangli Steel Structure is set to transform small wind turbine tower design. By gaining more insight into tower and rotor dynamic interactions and system modal characteristics, designers can optimize tower designs to reduce tower loads, minimize costs, and extend component life. Qingdao Qiangli Steel Structure Co., Ltd. continues to lead the way in innovative and sustainable engineering design solutions, addressing the unique challenges of the wind energy industry.