Dynamic behaviour of a 25m variable-geometry vertical-axis wind-turbine generator

The paper describes the development of a dynamic model of a 25 m variable-geometry vertical-axis wind turbine coupled to a generator which is in turn connected to the public electricity supply system. The model represents a 25 m prototype machine which it is proposed to be built at Carmarthen Bay in South Wales. This work was carried out as part of a detailed design study of the 25 m prototype, supported by substantial funding from the Department of Energy. Studies carried out on the model were used to investigate the behaviour of the wind-turbine generator when subjected to certain disturbances such as random wind fluctuations, gusting, three-phase and single-phase faults. These disturbances are typical of those that would impinge upon such a machine during its working life, and against which the machine should operate in an acceptable manner and remain stable when connected to a synchronous system. In addition, it was seen to be important to be able to predict and investigate any system resonances that may occur, so that these could be designed out of the machine.