Thesis
Enhancing the methodology for rain erosion testing
- Creator
- Rights statement
- Awarding institution
- University of Strathclyde
- Date of award
- 2024
- Thesis identifier
- T17124
- Person Identifier (Local)
- 201870409
- Qualification Level
- Qualification Name
- Department, School or Faculty
- Abstract
- Leading-edge erosion has been identified as one of the key challenges in the wind turbine sector. This phenomenon damages the surface of a wind turbine blade leading to energy production losses as well as potential structural issues. There has been much research over the past 100 years on the topic, however, there are still challenges that need to be addressed. This thesis focuses on identifying the current deficiencies in rain erosion testing practice and providing insight on how to improve them as well as providing a framework for the development of rain erosion testing facilities with the ability to address some of these deficiencies directly. Here, clear guidance on how best to characterise the mechanical performance of materials, with specific mechanical and topological properties that influence rain erosion testing results is identified. Key insights into realistic weather conditions encountered by wind turbines in the field are identified through stochastic rain texture modelling using real data from weather stations operating in the Republic of Ireland. Rain chemistry data for the island of Ireland is analysed to identify relevant pollutants that may corrode wind turbine blades. Non-destructive testing (NDT) methods are used to analyse a coated composite panel containing defects, with the results qualitatively discussed. The design, manufacture and testing of a rain erosion testing facility are outlined and discussed in some detail. The testing of this rig involved a component failure incident, which is discussed in detail, identifying possible design flaws that led to its failure. Following the incident, components were redesigned and manufactured correcting the identified flaws. Finally, the research here is discussed with its limitations outlined and avenues for future work and development on the rain erosion topic are outlined.
- Advisor / supervisor
- Leithead, W. E.
- Stack, M. M. (Margaret M.)
- Resource Type
- Note
- Previously held under moratorium between 23 September 2024 and 23 September 2025
- DOI
Relations
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PDF of thesis T17124 | 2025-02-07 | Public | Download |