BEM Model Extended to Analyze the Performance of Medium and Large Size Wind Turbines

In this paper an analytical modeling of the BEM method (Blade Element Moment Theory) with complementary correction methods for the performance analysis of the horizontal axis propeller wind turbines is described. This modeling was built from comparative analyzes of several correction methods proposed in the literature, of which those that presented better results were chosen, considering both medium and large turbines. To validate the results obtained from this modeling, experimental data from four turbines (NASA MOD-X series) in the order of 100kW to 7.3MW were used. A critical and comparative analysis was carried out to discuss the coherence of the results when predicting the performance of these turbines, with the objective of enabling the use of this modeling in a generalized way for horizontal axis propeller wind turbines with wide power range.