> Section 1:
Aerodynamics & Load
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Wind turbine blades are shaped to generate the maximum power from the wind at the minimum cost. Primarily, the design is driven by the aerodynamic requirements, but economics mean that the blade shape is a compromise to keep the cost of construction reasonable. |
Section 2:
Structural Design
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Blade design process starts with a “best guess” compromise between aerodynamic and structural efficiency. The choice of materials and manufacturing process will also have an influence on how thin (hence aerodynamically ideal) the blade can be built, and at what cost. |
Section 3:
Blade Manufacturing Process
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The structural design of a blade is closely linked to the manufacturing method as both have to be considered to enable the production of a cost effective and reliable blade. As with the structural design there are two main approaches to manufacturing blades, prepreg and infusion. |
Section 4:
Gurit Composite Materials for Wind Turbines
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Gurit has been supplying materials to the wind energy market for the manufacture of composite blades since 1995 and has been actively involved in the development of specialised blade materials as blade designs have increased rapidly in size and complexity. Gurit has a product portfolio to cover all current manufacturing approaches including wet lamination, resin infusion, and prepreg. |
Section 5:
Blade Cost Analysis: Prepreg vs Infusion Materials Technology
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Wind turbine blades are manufactured using advanced composite materials due to their specific properties and their flexibility for component construction. In recent years as blade sizes have increased, and as manufacturing output has accelerated, the choice of materials and the production route has become increasingly critical. |
Section 6:
Gurit Guide to Composites
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To fully appreciate the role and application of composite materials to a structure, an understanding is required of the component materials themselves and of the ways in which they can be processed. These notes look at basic composite theory, properties of materials used and the various processing techniques commonly found for the conversion of materials into finished structures. |