Wind machine fatigue analysis and life prediction : C. A. Waldon

Introduction - Summary of test failures - Preparation of SWECS - Equipment - Analysis - Conclusions

Abstract: Wind machine are, inherently, generators of fatigue. This is true for all types and sizes. Testing at the Rocky Flats Small Wind Systems Test Center has shown that fatigue is the dominant mode of structural failure and its prediction the hardest task for the manufacturer. The objetive of this paper is to present a technique, developed by the author, for measuring fatigue and predicting fatigue life for different wind regimes. Presented herein are the techniques for locating high stress measuring points, obtaining data, using computer programs for calculating fatigue reduction, and finally predicting fatigue life. This paper also presents current work which extends the life prediction technique to other wind regimes.