Challenges in testing and monitoring the in-operation vibration characteristics of wind turbines

• Published in: Mechanical systems and signal processing 2013-12, Vol.41 (1-2), p.649-666
• Main Authors: Ozbek, Muammer, Meng, Fanzhong, Rixen, Daniel J.
• Format: Article
• Language: English
• Subjects: Aeroelasticity; Computer simulation; Dynamical systems; Dynamics; Laser interferometry; Mathematical analysis; Mathematical models; Operational modal analysis; Photogrammetry; Vibration; Vibration measurement; Videogrammetry; Wind turbine; Wind turbines
• ISSN: 0888-3270; 1096-1216
• DOI: 10.1016/j.ymssp.2013.07.023

This paper aims at discussing the main challenges in testing and monitoring the in-operation vibration characteristics of wind turbines by presenting the results of the analyses performed using analytical models, aeroelastic simulations and infield vibration measurements. Within the scope of the research, the dynamic behavior of a 2.5MW – 80m diameter – wind turbine was monitored by using three different measurement systems namely, conventional strain gauges, photogrammetry and laser interferometry, while the turbine was both at parked condition and rotating. The modal parameters were extracted for several operation conditions and wind speeds. Similar modal analyses were also conducted on the response time histories which were generated by using an analytical mass–spring–damper model and an aeroelastic simulation tool. The main challenges in analyzing the dynamic properties of wind turbines, possible reasons of the uncertainty in the estimated modal parameters and the applicability limits of the utilized identification algorithms are discussed based on the results of these investigations. •Infield vibration tests were performed on a 2.5MW, 80m diameter wind turbine.•Three measurement methods (strain gauges, laser interferometry and photogrammetry) were used.•An analytical model and an aeroelastic simulation tool were also used to generate numeric data.•SSI and LSCE identification methods were applied on simulated data and in-field measurements.•Factors affecting the estimated modal parameters were discussed based on these investigations.