Effects of Fibre-Reinforced Plastic Wedge-Stick Slope on the Performance of Wind-Turbine Blade Root Connections

Abstract

Bushing-insert connections have emerged as efficient blade root connection designs. Bushing-insert connections with fibre-reinforced plastic (FRP) wedge-sticks enhance the strength and stability of the blade root, prevent stress concentration at the blade root, and improve the service life and reliability of the blade. However, studies on the failure mechanisms of the FRP wedge-sticks in bushing-insert connections are scarce. Hence, in this study, the influence of the FRP wedge-stick on the structural performance of the blade root was analysed by changing the slope of the FRP wedge-stick’s inclined surface at a constant thickness. The finite element method, sample testing, and full-size blade testing method were employed, and structural verification was conducted using an 84.5 m blade. The results reveal that the contact area of the inclined surface can be increased by reducing the slope of the FRP wedge-stick. This increase in area reduces the stress transmitted to each node of the FRP wedge-stick and blade root, prevents delamination of the FRP wedge-stick and blade root, and enhances the reliability of the blade root connection.