Wind load evaluation in the parked condition at extreme wind speeds considering passive yaw control

Abstract

In this study, a model for the passive yaw control is proposed to take into account the inertia of the yaw actuator for the yaw mechanism and is validated by experimental data. The wind loads on the blades and the tower at extreme wind speeds are then evaluated and compared with the measurement. Finally, the effects of wind speed and wind direction change rate on wind loads in the parked condition at extreme wind speeds are evaluated by using the proposed model for the passive yaw control. The passive yaw control has the potential to reduce the extreme blade loads comparing with the active yaw control.