Update on the Structural Design of the Sandia 34-M Vertical Axis Wind Turbine

摘要

Sandia National Laboratories, as lead Department of Energy (DOE) laboratory for Vertical Axis Wind Turbine (VWAT) technology development in the USA, has been funded by the Wind/Oceans Technologies Division of the DOE to design and build a 34-M research-oriented VAWT. The machine will incorporate step-tapered blades with natural laminar flow blade sections, and will be capable of operating as either a constant rpm or a continuously-variable rpm machine. Design changes in the last year have reduced the predicted blade flatwise mean stresses by 56% and have reduced the rotor weight by 10,400 kg (23,000 lbs.). Flutter and aeroelastic damping analyses have been completed, instrumentation defined, and initial testing plans developed. The long lead time components of the turbine have been ordered, with deliveries to start in March, 1986. First turn of the turbine is planned for October, 1986. (ERA citation 11:008639)