Presentations

Abstract

Erosion of wind turbine blades is a challenge that requires integration of knowledge across different disciplines to solve. The root cause of leading-edge erosion is rain, hail, and aerosol dust that impinges on the blades. The result is roughening and erosion of the leading edge of wind turbine blades. Eroded blades inflict lower aerodynamic performance when the lift and drag change from the original clean blade. Knowledge of the blade coating properties, the material loss during erosion processes, the methods for testing erosion of coating systems, and the behavior of coatings in operating wind farms are essential prerequisites to further our understanding and providing solutions. Within the IEA (International Energy Agency) Task 46 Erosion of Wind Turbine Blades, more than 40 participants from 12 countries have met to discuss and contribute knowledge and solutions to blade erosion. The four-year Task will be completed by March 2025. The presentation will focus on highlights from the four years. An extension to Phase 2 of the IEA Task 46 is planned, and future activities envisioned in the coming four-year period will be briefly introduced.