The study PROWESS, led by TNO, has revealed that a significant portion of damage to offshore wind turbines in the North Sea occurs in just 12 hours of the year, specifically during strong winds and intense rainfall. The damage, known as Leading Edge Erosion (LEE), occurs when the wind turbine blades reach high speeds and are hit by heavy rain. The study found that approximately 30% of the annual erosion damage occurs during these 12 hours.
The research used detailed precipitation measurements in the North Sea to analyze the data, and found that the combination of high winds and heavy rain is the leading cause of damage. The study also used new measuring methods, including disdrometers to measure the size of raindrops, to gain insights into the relationship between rain and erosion.
The results of the study have significant implications for the wind energy sector, as it provides new insights that can help prevent damage and reduce maintenance costs. Wind farm operators such as Eneco, Shell, and Equinor can use the “erosion atlas” to predict when to take preventive measures to lower the speed of the turbines and reduce the risk of damage. The study’s findings highlight the importance of digitalization in the wind energy sector, as it can help operators make data-driven decisions to optimize performance and reduce costs.
The study’s lead researcher, Harald van der Mijle Meijer, emphasized that the research has shown that the timing and size of raindrops are crucial factors in determining the extent of erosion damage. The study’s findings can be used to improve the design and maintenance of wind turbines, and to reduce the environmental impact of the industry. Overall, the PROWESS study provides a valuable contribution to the development of more efficient and sustainable wind energy production in the North Sea.