APPENDIX A
STATEMENT OF TASK
OBJECTIVES
The final technical report shall provide state-of-the-art information via a current survey of wind turbine materials, fabrication, operation, and life performance. Research areas shall be identified and given priority. Also, through an evaluation of research related to stress/deformation response, direction shall be given to Department of Energy (DOE) for the development of models that will aid in the understanding of the stress problem. By considering research related to failure of joints, fasteners, and critical sections, applied research in material sciences shall be brought to the attention of the DOE program manager.
TASKS TO BE PERFORMED
The committee will assess:
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The adequacy of existing models to predict dynamic stress patterns. A current preliminary understanding of wind environment forcing functions shall be obtained from DOE.
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The understanding of the structural stress/deformation response of various wind turbine materials subject to representative forcing functions, with particular reference to dynamic and fatigue failure.
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The understanding of the performance of joints, fasteners, and critical sections in relation to failure modes and fractures and how they originate and propagate.
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The effects of environmental degradation, including such factors as wear and erosion, corrosion, and ultraviolet degradation over time in wind turbine materials.
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The research tools needed to study these phenomena, such as sensors, computer hardware, software, and databases.
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The opportunities for new materials and coatings to improve wind turbine life performance.
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The need for special laboratory facilities, models, and prototypes to improve the design and operation of wind energy systems.
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The prospects for improving the ability to predict wind turbine life and improved economics as a function of material choice, design fabrication, and life-cycle maintenance factors.
ASSESSMENT OUTCOME
This work will influence and improve DOE's plan for wind energy research described in the latest version of "Federal Wind Energy Program: Five-Year Research Plan." Policymakers will be provided with an improved understanding of the role of wind technology research in relation to national policies on energy science and technology.