Adaptive Control of the MS2 Wind Turbine — Practical Results

This paper summarises a project, described in detail in Ref [1], to determine the effectiveness of an advanced control algorithm, developed in a previous project [2], when incorporated into the control system of an actual wind turbine. The pitch control system is used to limit the power output in high winds. In improving the control action, the aim was to: (a) reduce the excursions of power and drive-train torque above their rated levels and (b) reduce the wear and tear on the pitch control mechanism and servo motor. This should result in a lower drive-train cost for a given power rating in future designs, and lower maintenance costs. Both of the above aims were achieved to some degree by the new controller, the structure of which would also allow additional aims to be met if required.