Computation Of Dynamic Loads Of Wind Turbine Power Trains.

Abstract

The main concern of the present work is the computation of dynamic loads of wind turbine
power trains, with particular emphasis on planetary gearbox loads. The applied mathematical approach
relies on a nonlinear finite elements method, which is extended by multibody systems functionalities,
and aerodynamics based on the Blade Element Momentum theory. The Finite Elements model used to
simulate the behavior of wind turbines is introduced in detail. A comparison between numerical results
and experimental data is shown. Fatigue diagrams by means of rainflow counting of load cycles and
corresponding load duration distributions are also presented for some elements of the model.