A qualitative analysis of the steady modes of operation of small wind power generators

The motion of an electromechanical system that simulates the steady modes of operation of a generator driven by a wind turbine is investigated by qualitative methods of theoretical mechanics. A comparatively simple mathematical model that enables the influence of inertial, geometric, aerodynamic and electrodynamic characteristics of the system to be taken into account is studied. An approximation formula for the aerodynamic torque acting on the blades of the wind turbine, which is applicable in the region of high-speed steady modes of operation, is proposed. A theoretical and numerical investigation of high-speed steady modes is carried out using experimental data for the aerodynamic characteristics of standard blade foils. A description of the operating modes of a small wind power system and of their evolution, bifurcations and stability is given. Estimates of the characteristics of the optimal modes of operation are obtained. ©2009.