Vindkraftsblad

Vindkraftsblad is the blade component of a wind turbine. It is the primary aerodynamic element that captures wind energy and converts it into rotation of the rotor, enabling the generator to produce electricity. Modern blades are long and lightweight, designed to withstand varying wind speeds and loads while minimizing drag.

Blades are typically made as composite structures, using fiberglass-reinforced resins or, in some cases, carbon fiber reinforcement. They consist of an outer shell, internal supports or foam cores, and incorporate a twist along their length to optimize performance from hub to tip. The airfoil shape changes along the blade to maintain efficiency across different wind conditions.

Manufacturing involves composite layup, curing, and sometimes resin infusion, with quality control including non-destructive testing. Modern blades commonly range from about 30 to over 100 meters in length, with offshore turbines tending toward the longer end. They are designed to endure tens of thousands of load cycles over their service life, typically several decades.

In operation, blades are subjected to fatigue, leading-edge erosion, lightning strikes, and icing in cold climates. Routine inspections and maintenance are essential, using visual checks, thermography, ultrasound, and drone-based surveys. Repairs or replacements are planned within broader turbine maintenance programs, given the high cost and difficulty of blade work.

End-of-life considerations address recycling and disposal. The composite materials used in blades pose recycling challenges, motivating research into recyclable resins, mechanical recycling, and repurposing options. Ongoing development aims to produce longer, more efficient blades while improving their durability and environmental footprint.