Wind Energy Consulting Services

Patent Pending

DARcorporation has been offering aeronautical engineering software and consulting services since 1991. Over the years DARcorporation has developed a unique expertise in aerodynamic design of wind turbines. Our experience includes designing, building and testing Horizontal Axis Wind Turbines (HAWT) and Vertical Axis Wind Turbines (VAWT).

Aerodynamic Design & Analysis

Blade Element Momentum (BEM) theory software is used for the initial aerodynamic design of the wind turbine blades. DARcorporation engineers developed and customized the software to handle any type of wind turbine configuration and blade shape. Airfoil design and analysis software is used to analyze and design the airfoils used on the blades. Computational Fluid Dynamics (CFD) software tools are used to simulate rotation and quantify the full power curve of the wind turbine. Pressure distribution over the blades is calculated and torque (and thus energy) curves are constructed. Once the aerodynamic design is finalized, a wind tunnel model can be designed, constructed and tested.

Structural Design & Analysis

Structural design is carried out after the aerodynamic design is finished. Aerodynamic loads in the form of pressure distributions from Computational Fluid Dynamics (CFD) or experimental data are mapped into a finite element model. Load cases are determined based on IEC design standards for load factors and typical wind cases. DARcorporation utilizes NEi NASTRAN to analyze the structure. Linear and non-linear cases are analyzed. The structure can be made out of steel, aluminum, glass fiber and/or carbon fiber or any combination thereof. A unique method has been developed by DARcorporation engineers to analyze the harmonic behavior of wind turbines. Unwanted vibrations are detected and designed out of the system.

Detailed modal analysis is carried out to determine the natural frequencies of the various components of the wind turbine. Frequency response and transient response analyses are also carried out to determine critical deflections under forced oscillations caused by changing wind direction. Interference between various components of the wind turbine is analyzed and the structure is designed as per the IEC or other regulations. The turbine is designed in such a way that the natural frequencies of the blades are different from the operating RPM. Detailed fastener analysis is carried out and all fasteners are sized appropriately. The entire structural design is conducted to simplify transportation and assembly. Detailed CAD for Finite Element Analysis (FEA) is generated in Siemens NX and can be translated into other CAD formats.

Wind Turbine Prototype & Manufacturing

Upon completion of the detailed design, a prototype wind turbine model can be constructed at the DARcorporation prototype facility. Our prototypes range from proof-of-concept display models and wind tunnel models to full scale test turbines. Our facility is capable of manufacturing both metal and composite turbines. Loads and function tests can be performed for individual parts or full scale assemblies. DARcorporation ensures a high level of quality control, and all parts are checked for fit and finish. Additional Information: Wind Turbine Prototype Fabrication

Wind Turbine Wind Tunnel Testing

Depending on model size and wind speed requirements, wind tunnel models are tested at The University of Kansas (KU) or Wichita State University (WSU). Either a small generator or an electronic brake in combination with a torque sensor is used to measure the power output of the model. When using a generator a resistor box is attached to simulate the load on the generator and to control the RPM. With the different RPM's and the torque a power curve can be constructed. DARcorporation developed a unique wall correction method to correct the data from the wind tunnel for wall effects. Necessary modifications and changes to the design can then be identified. Additional Information: Wind Energy: Testing & Calibration

Wind Turbine Prototype Testing

Full scale prototypes are installed at test sites throughout the country. DARcorporation engineers will create a test plan and test the turbine for performance over a period of time. This test bed will provide data such as wind speed and wind direction, RPM, power performance characteristics, accelerations and loads. Data is then analyzed and detailed power curves are constructed.

The DARcorporation Advantage

Experience in the design, detailed analysis and building of prototypes gives DARcorporation a unique advantage over other companies, since we can go from initial design all the way through full size manufacturing. The unique tools developed for design and analysis make DARcorporation the best choice for any new wind turbine development. DARcorporation engineers can advise on what the best materials are for your design and what the best configuration is. We will work with you to design and optimize your wind turbine for performance, manufacturability and cost.

Proposal & Rates

Please Contact Dr. Willem Anemaat for additional information or a detailed proposal. We will need to know your requirements such as design wind speeds, design RPM, type of wind mill, power output required and any other information you can share. We will write a detailed proposal with statement of work, showing tasks, cost and calendar time. This will be provided at no cost or obligation.

Sample Projects:

Hi-Q Wind Turbine
Vertical Axis Wind Turbine
Windy II Vertical Axis Wind Turbine

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Magazine Articles:

Wind Today 4Q 2009: Industry Focus DARcorporation