PIV and deformation measurements on the rotor blade of a rotating, scaled model wind turbine with flexible blades under tailored inflow conditions

Wind turbines face harsh inflow conditions when operating in the atmospheric boundary layer or wake of other wind turbines. The incoming velocity field can change within seconds due to turbulent structures it contains, resulting a rapid several degrees angle attack for rotating blade. Aerodynamics are hence rapidly altered, leading changes occurring forces on rotor. Such dynamic cause blades twist and bend, accelerating fatigue reducing lifetime turbine Spinato et al. (2009).