Tapered Composite Wind Turbine Tower Utilizing CNC-Machined Pultruded Lineals

Within the renewable energy industry, a need has been identified for a new type of wind power support structure that contains aesthetic appeal, is relatively inexpensive, and is adaptable for smaller wind energy turbine systems. The new type of structure must lower installation costs, increase durability and structure life, and lower overall costs per KW/hr on an installed basis. This project will develop a design for a family of composite wind turbine support structures for small-to-medium wind power applications. The designs will be optimized to reduce material use and will utilize efficient composites manufacturing techniques for fabrication and assembly. Commercial Applications and other Benefits as described by the awardee:The durability, corrosion resistance, and lower-weight of wind power support structures made from composite materials should reduce installation and maintenance costs for wind energy installations, resulting in a lower cost per kilowatt produced and opening wind resources in locations previously deemed inaccessible or uneconomical