Fatigue reliability of wind turbines
historical perspectives, recent developments and future prospects
D.L. Liao (TU Delft - Steel & Composite Structures, Universidade do Porto, University of Electronic Science and Technology of China)
Shun Peng Zhu (University of Electronic Science and Technology of China)
JHG Correia (TU Delft - Electronic Instrumentation, Universidade do Porto)
Abilio M.P. de Jesus (Universidade do Porto)
M. Veljkovic (TU Delft - Steel & Composite Structures)
Filippo Berto (Norwegian University of Science and Technology (NTNU))
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Abstract
Wind, as a sustainable and affordable energy source, represents a strong alternative to traditional energy sources. However, wind power is only one of the options, together with other renewable energy sources. Consequently, the core concerns for wind turbine manufacturers and operators are to increase its reliability and decrease costs, therefore enhancing commercial competitiveness. Among typical failure modes of wind turbines, fatigue is a common and critical source. Given the significance of fatigue reliability in wind turbine structural integrity, reliable probabilistic fatigue theories are necessary for design scheme optimization. By reducing the expenses on manufacturing, operation, and maintenance in reliability- and cost-optimal ways, the cost of energy can be significantly reduced. This study systematically reviews the state-of-the-art technology for fatigue reliability of wind turbines, and elaborates on the evolution of methodology in wind load uncertainty modelling. In addition, fatigue reliability assessment techniques on four typical components are summarized. Finally, discussions and conclusions are presented, intending to provide direct insights into future theoretical development and methodological innovation in this field.