Frequency Response Static Test is a Success
Not knowing where the RPM of the rotor overlaps with the harmonic resonance of H-type turbines has been one of the biggest hurdles that have prevented them from being commercialized. Dr. David Malcolm’s extensive knowledge and modeling of our turbines’ frequency response was tested today when Jeff Willis conducted the “pull test”. By pulling and suddenly releasing a rope tied to the rotor, the strain gauges captured the data needed to validate our Frequency Response model. Success. The data matched the modeling and as a result, 300 kg of weights (30 kg discs) were added to the top of the mast (see disc held by intern Omar Garcia). This added weight pushed the critical harmonic response RPM further below the operating window. Better safe than sorry at this stage of the development process. The next step in validating this model is to evaluate the frequency response data under dynamic conditions.
Contact: Jen Hoover, jhoover@windharvest.com
Wind Harvest International, Inc. is a California-based renewable energy technology company, founded in 2006. The company makes, sells, and develops projects for its Wind Harvester brand of H-type turbines, the only known product designed to harvest the highly energetic, turbulent wind that blows 15-80 feet above the ground. Wind Harvest’s wholly-owned financial subsidiary Wind Harvest Pilot Project Inc. raises funds and loans it to the parent company.
