Height Control System for Wind Turbines Based on Critical Wind Speed Calculation

The increasing frequency of wind turbine failures due to extreme weather conditions necessitates the implementation of new solutions to enhance their operational reliability. This paper presents an automatic rotor drop system specifically designed for wind turbines equipped with the Onipko rotor. The system aims to protect turbines from damage caused by critical wind speeds, reducing maintenance costs and extending the equipment’s lifespan. The unique design of the Onipko rotor allows it to operate at wind speeds as low as 0.1 m/s. However, its high drag coefficient and lack of aerodynamic optimization make it susceptible to mechanical stress and structural instability under strong gusts, requiring additional protective measures. The paper presents a calculation of the critical wind speed at which protective measures must be initiated. Through mathematical modeling, this study demonstrates the effectiveness of the rotor drop system in ensuring safe operation at wind speeds reaching 23.5 m/s. The optimization of the PI controller parameters provides a rapid response and stability, significantly enhancing the resilience of wind turbines to adverse weather conditions.