Validated performance gains from Aerodynamic Upgrades Newly developed Aerodynamic Upgrades for wind turbine blades boost annual energy production (AEP) by up to 1.2%* in IEC3 class conditions Designed to increase the energy output of wind turbines Vestas’ Aerodynamic Upgrades consist of vortex generators and gurney flaps, which are applied to wind turbine blades either together or separately, depending on the individual blade design. Based on our extensive knowledge of wind turbine blades and advanced CFD modelling, we have identified the optimal configurations for different blades. For optimal performance, Vestas V90 and V100 blades receive the full add-on package. In this paper we describe the theory behind Aerodynamic Upgrades and demonstrate their value with a field test report. Based on simulated power curves that have been validated through an extensive verification programme, Aerodynamic Upgrades deliver 1.0% improvement on V90-1.8/2.0MW and V100-1.8/2.0MW, and 1.2% on V90-3.0MW in IEC3 class conditions. The Aerodynamic Upgrades have been certified by DNV-GL and are in accordance with the Type Certificate in IECS conditions. How Aerodynamic Upgrades enhance wind turbine blades Over the years, vortex generators have routinely been used as passive flow control devices in multiple fluid engineering applications. For example, on fixed-wing aircraft, power-plant nacelle strakes, turbo-prop air-intakes and automotive, to name a few. More recently, the wind industry has benefitted significantly from their application in preventing or delaying the onset of blade air-flow separation – critically, in the inner area of the blade. This helps to regulate the aerodynamic and aero-elastic performance of wind turbine blades. Quick Facts: Aerodynamic Upgrades • Comprisetwotypesofbladeadd-ons • IncreaseAEPbyupto1.2%*inIEC3conditions • Powerimprovementsandnoisevalidatedinfieldtests • CertifiedbyDNV-GLinaccordancewithTypeCertificate(IECS) • DesignedforVestasV90-1.8/2.0MW,V90-3.0MW,andV100-1.8/2.0MW *BasedonV90-3.0MWpowercurvewithAerodynamicUpgrades
Share
Print
Download PDF file