An aeroelastic model is a computer code that programs the configuration and physical properties of a turbine and the nature of the ambient wind flow. The model will predict the loads and stresses in all of the critical components under the specified conditions.

Validating an aeroelastic model involves comparing the computer predictions with measurements from the operating turbine. After achieving this agreement over a range of conditions, the model is considered to be validated. It can then be used with confidence to predict the effects of changing the turbine in any way and how new versions and similar products will perform.

In fall 2021, Wind Harvest moved another step towards validating the aeroelastic model through the static load test run on Model 3.1. The successful “pull test” validated our Frequency Response model by providing matching data between the modeling and the field data. The Wind Harvest blog details the story of the test, and the results can be found in this report.