Experiences and Recent Developments in Germany
Ice throw from wind turbines is a serious environmental hazard. Experience in Germany may serve as a contribution to future standardisation of ice throw from wind turbines. No national or international standards exist, but they are urgently needed. The aim of this article is to give an overview of the critical points which should be assessed in a future guideline.
By Thomas Hahm and Nicole Stoffels, F2E Fluid & Energy Engineering, Germany
Wind energy in regions with icing conditions requires special attention regarding material and yield losses due to icing of the wind turbine. Several publications considering this topic exist, and also address the topic of hazards from ice throw, but only a few solutions are proposed. One recommendation is a minimum distance of the wind turbine of 1.5 times the hub height plus rotor diameter to objects in regions with severe icing conditions.
