Fraunhofer Institute for Electronic Nano Systems
The continuous enlargement of wind turbines (WEA), both onshore and offshore, particularly the increase in rotor diameter, presents aerodynamic and aeroacoustic challenges. To address these challenges and improve the efficiency and economy of the plants, research and development of optimization concepts are being advanced. Here, the integration of fluidic actuators for active flow control plays a central role. This technology not only allows for better adaptation of aerodynamics but also supports the use of lighter and longer rotor blades.
The fluidic actuators, including Pulsed Jet actuators and Synthetic Jet actuators, which have mainly been studied in the aviation sector so far, offer the potential to increase rotor efficiency and thus significantly improve the energy yield of the WEA. The joint project, consisting of research institutions, university chairs, industrial companies, and SMEs, focuses on the development and integration of these actuators into the fiber-reinforced rotor blade structure. Additionally, innovative strategies for integrating other components such as electronics and sensor technology are being developed.
The research priorities include the development of technologies for optimizing blade flow, numerical and experimental analysis of these technologies, and the development of an assessment and control concept for the economic evaluation of the use of active flow control over the entire life cycle of the plants. Through these advanced technologies and close cooperation within the consortium, participants aim to achieve both economic and ecological improvements in the production and operation of WEA and enable new rotor geometries.
