A cost and performance comparison of LRTM and VI for the manufacture of large scale wind turbine blades

Hutchinson, J. R. and Schubel, P. J. and Warrior, N. A. (2011) A cost and performance comparison of LRTM and VI for the manufacture of large scale wind turbine blades. Renewable Energy, 36 (2). pp. 866-871. ISSN 0960-1481

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Abstract

Light resin transfer moulding (LRTM) has been developed as an alternative to vacuum infusion (VI) but a direct comparison between the two processes is needed to quantify any advantages. This paper uses a technical cost model and an empirical study to show the potential financial and performance benefits of LRTM for manufacture of a generic 40 m wind turbine blade shell. The use of LRTM when compared to VI demonstrated a possible 3% cost saving, improved dimensional stability (5.5%), and reductions in resin wastage (3%) and infusion time (25%). A decrease in internal void formation (0.9%) resulted in an increase in mechanical performance (<4%) for LRTM moulded parts.


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Item Type: Article (Commonwealth Reporting Category C)
Refereed: Yes
Item Status: Live Archive
Additional Information: Files associated with this item cannot be displayed due to copyright restrictions.
Faculty/School / Institute/Centre: No Faculty
Date Deposited: 22 May 2017 05:05
Last Modified: 22 May 2017 05:05
Uncontrolled Keywords: Blades; Cost modelling; LRTM; Mould design; Wind energy; Blades; Cost modelling; LRTM; Mould design; Wind energy; Plastics Plants and Machinery; Plastics Processing; Organic Polymers; Cost and Value Engineering; Industrial Economics; Compressors and Pumps; Heat Treatment Processes; Strength of Building Materials; Mechanical Properties; Wind Power; PROCESS EQUIPMENT; POWER GENERATION AND POWER PLANTS;
Fields of Research : 12 Built Environment and Design > 1204 Engineering Design > 120403 Engineering Design Methods
Socio-Economic Objective: E Expanding Knowledge > 97 Expanding Knowledge > 970109 Expanding Knowledge in Engineering
Identification Number or DOI: 10.1016/j.renene.2010.07.025
URI: http://eprints.usq.edu.au/id/eprint/31659

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