Multivariable controller design verification for a liberty wind turbine

The increasing size of modern wind turbines goes hand in hand with an increase of the structural loads on the turbine caused by effects turbulences. Consequently, the use of advanced control algorithms for active load reduction has become a relevant part of current wind turbine control systems. Recently, an H∞-norm optimal multivariable individual blade-pitch controller was designed for the utility scale 2.5 MW Liberty C96 research turbine of the University of Minnesota. In this paper, the controller is evaluated in an extensive industrygrade verification campaign. The campaign includes a large number of simulations in different wind speeds. Damage equivalent loads on the rotating and non-rotating parts of the turbine are calculated to quantify the loads acting on the turbine. The proposed multivariable controller is compared to the Liberty C96’s baseline controller without individual blade-pitch control and a state-of-practice integral individual blade-pitch control law.

DDC Class

600: Technik

Options

Multivariable controller design verification for a liberty wind turbine