Using acoustics emission in validating a new design and manufacturing concepts of a horizontal axis wind turbine blade

Abstract

Recently, a new design for a segmented horizontal axis wind turbine blade made from an internal steel chassis and an outer surface from plies of fiberglass polyester composite was introduced. A prototype blade is built and tested for verification. Acoustic Emission (AE) plays an important role in testing the threaded joints, welded joints and fittings between connections in the new design. AE is applied during two static bending tests performed on the blade in edgewise and flapwise directions according to IEC-61400 standards. A system of three sensors is attached to the blade such that each sensor is placed near the location of mating segments to inspect any activities near these locations. Test results showed that there are no AE events during the static bending test in edgewise direction which proves its rigidity in this direction. In the flapwise direction some AE events occurred indicating the importance of increasing the rigidity of the connections between the mating segments in this direction.