Simulating icy wind turbines

Synopsis

Wind power is a promising source of renewable energy. Wind turbine blades are aerodynamically designed to generate mechanical energy from airflow. In cold regions, ice accumulates on the rotors, thereby degrading aerodynamic performance and reducing power production. 3D numerical simulations can assess the performance of wind turbines that suffer from blade icing. This presentation examines the use of computational fluid dynamics (CFD) methods for modeling icy turbine airflow. Airflow fields are governed by the Reynolds-averaged Navier-Stokes equations, along with turbulence. CFD simulations reveal how blade icing affects power production. Wind farmers who operate in below freezing conditions may find these results informative.