• Wind and Structures
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• v.26 no.1
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• pp.25-34
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• 2018

This paper presents a beam finite element model of a vibrate wind blade in large elastic deformation subjected to the aerodynamic, centrifugal, gyroscopic and gravity loads. The gyroscopic loads applied to the blade are induced by her simultaneous vibration and rotation. The proposed beam finite element model is based on a simplex interpolation method and it is mainly intended to the numerical analysis of wind blades vibration in large elastic deformation. For this purpose, the theory of the sheared beams and the finite element method are combined to develop the algebraic equations system governing the three-dimensional motion of blade vibration. The applicability of the theoretical approach is elucidated through an original case study. Also, the static deformation of the used wind blade is assessed by appropriate software using a solid finite element model in order to show the effectiveness of the obtained results. To simulate the nonlinear dynamic response of wind blade, the predictor-corrector Newmark scheme is applied and the stability of numerical process is approved during a large time of blade functioning. Finally, the influence of the modified geometrical stiffness on the amplitudes and frequencies of the wind blade vibration induced by the sinusoidal excitation of gravity is analyzed.

• Wind and Structures
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• v.14 no.2
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• pp.85-112
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• 2011

Wind turbine structures are long slender columns with a rotor and blade assembly placed on the top. These slender structures vibrate due to dynamic environmental forces and its own dynamics. Analysis of the dynamic behavior of wind turbines is fundamental to the stability, performance, operation and safety of these systems. In this paper a simplied approach is outlined for free vibration analysis of these long, slender structures taking the soil-structure interaction into account. The analytical method is based on an Euler-Bernoulli beam-column with elastic end supports. The elastic end-supports are considered to model the flexible nature of the interaction of these systems with soil. A closed-form approximate expression has been derived for the first natural frequency of the system. This new expression is a function of geometric and elastic properties of wind turbine tower and properties of the foundation including soil. The proposed simple expression has been independently validated using an exact numerical method, laboratory based experimental measurement and field measurement of a real wind turbine structure. The results obtained in the paper shows that the proposed expression can be used for a quick assessment of the fundamental frequency of a wind turbine taking the soil-structure interaction into account.