Reliability-based design optimisation framework for wind turbine towers

The current design of wind turbine (WT) towers is generally based on the partial safety factor (PSF) method, which treats uncertain variables deterministically and applies PSFs to account for uncertainties. This simplification in process leads either over-engineered or under-engineered designs most time. In this study, a reliability-based optimisation (RBDO) framework WT developed, accurately taking uncertainties loads material properties. A parametric finite element analysis (FEA) model stochastic variables. After validation, it then combined with response surface method first order reliability develop assessment model. Five limit states are considered, i.e. ultimate, fatigue, buckling, modal frequency tower top rotation. further integrated genetic algorithm (GA) RBDO framework. has been applied typical 2.0 MW onshore currently installed representative location Middle East. results demonstrate that proposed can effectively achieve an optimal meet target reliability.