Model validation of hydrodynamic loads and performance of a full-scale tidal turbine using Tidal Bladed

Machine data is processed and quality control filters applied to obtain measurement ensembles suitable for comparison with simulation outputs. Comparisons are made for electrical power, pitch angle and blade near-root bending moment. Good agreement is found between the simulated and measured flapwise near root-bending damage equivalent loads and load spectra. The stochastic blade load data is further analysed where it is found that the methodologies applied provide accurate predictions of machine fatigue loads due to turbulence.