Establishing the Partial Load Limits for Main Shaft Response Prediction in Wind Turbine Hybrid Nacelle Testing

ABSTRACT Hybrid nacelle testing is a novel testing method that utilizes partial load tests in combination with virtual models to extrapolate the response at full load of the nacelle device under test. Validation of the virtual model at partial loads plays a crucial role in this type of hybrid test approach. This paper investigates the influence of defining different partial load limits on the uncertainty in predicting the main shaft response at full load when non‐torque loads are applied. Furthermore, a criterion based on the nonlinearities in the main bearing load effects is defined for the evaluation of induced uncertainty in partial load testing. The paper further highlights the challenges and future prospects in the application of hybrid nacelle testing for other types of nacelle tests and corresponding physical responses of interest. Once matured, this novel testing concept has the potential to resolve some of the major challenges being faced by modern test benches related to testing capacity, time, and costs.