D3.1. O& MAssessment of LEP Repair
report
Due to continuous precipitation impacts, over the course of their lifetime, wind turbine blades are prone to damage from rain induced leading edge erosion (LEE). LEE damage starts as small pits and cracks on the topcoat and can propagate to the substrate if left unchecked. Due to these damages, not only does the aerodynamic performance of the turbine degrade, the structural safety of the turbine is also at risk. Modern wind turbines are thus equipped with leading edge protection (LEP) systems to protect them against LEE damage. While LEPs can sustain more rain drop impact before showing visible damage, they are also susceptible to LEE. Repairing LEPs at appropriate times is crucial to ensure a safe and smooth operation of the wind turbine.
Topics
TNO Identifier
1001081
Publisher
TNO
Collation
29 p.
Place of publication
Petten