Potential of damage accumulation during segmented rotor blade fatigue tests

Abstract Modern wind turbines have higher rated power and improved capacity factors. This results in very long slender blades which are also designed closer to the material limits. As a consequence, blade test facilities need be upgraded for static fatigue full-scale testing carry larger loads deal with tip deflections. Another aspect is adaption of methods avoid high overloads, can cause premature damage require time-consuming repairs. One drawback traditional tests full-length rotor time needed certification as low eigenfrequencies hence durations. work presents an alternative approach combines segmented tests, each contributing accumulated damage. The proposed benchmarked by means numerical optimization study. applying this current offshore design illustrates potential reducing duration 66% local overload mere fraction.