Wind Turbine Model Suitability Study
The assessment of the suitability of a particular wind turbine type with regard to the specific wind farm site and layout is based on main parameters affecting the design limits of the wind turbine. The wind turbine design guarantees that it can sustain the wind conditions which pertain to its class within stated safety margins. In accordance with ΙEC 61400-1 (Ed.3), the following parameters are determined:
- Terrain complexity
- The extreme wind speed Vref defined as the maximum 10min-average wind speed at hub height with a return period of 50 years (Gumbel analysis and POT, MIS analysis)
- Wind speed distribution in the operational range of the turbine (Vin – Vout)
- Distribution of turbulence
- Flow inclination
- Wind shear
- Air density
The criteria are assessed one by one to check whether they are compliant with the turbine IEC-Class. Any violations are categorized in terms of severity and an opinion stated, based on our extended experience from the treatment of similar situations. Sector and load-management schemes are investigated in order to ensure site compliance. In such cases, the energy loss (per wind turbine & in total) is calculated and an uncertainty value is assigned.