Date of Award
2025
Degree Type
Thesis
Degree Name
Master of Science in Mechanical Engineering and Applied Mechanics
Department
Mechanical, Industrial and Systems Engineering
First Advisor
Sumanta Das
Abstract
The structural integrity of wind turbine blades is critical to their performance and durability, particularly under compressive loads at the trailing edge, which is prone to local buckling and material failure. This study explores a reinforcement strategy of a glass fiber composite blade trailing edge involving the integration of a honeycomb-structured thermoplastic polyurethane (TPU) core spanwise, aiming to enhance compressive strength and mitigate material failure. Finite element analysis was employed to assess the baseline performance of a composite blade and to evaluate the effects of the proposed reinforcement. The results demonstrate a substantial reduction in failure indicators within the critical trailing edge area when the honeycomb insert is applied. This approach validates that targeted TPU honeycomb reinforcement effectively strengthens trailing edge regions without adding excessive weight or altering global blade dynamics. The reinforced design offers a promising pathway for both new blade manufacturing and retrofitting existing structures to extend service life and reduce failure risk in harsh operational environments.
Recommended Citation
Cuorvo, Raffaele, "STRATEGIC TRAILING EDGE REINFORCEMENT OF WIND TURBINE BLADES USING HONEYCOMB POLYMER INSERTS" (2025). Open Access Master's Theses. Paper 2661.
https://digitalcommons.uri.edu/theses/2661