Failure mechanisms of wind turbine blades in India: Climatic, regional, and seasonal variability

Results of a survey of failure mechanisms of wind turbine blades in India, observed by service companies, are presented. Surface erosion is the most often observed blade damage mechanism, followed by lightning strikes. Leading edge erosion can be observed even 1-2 years after wind turbine installation, while structural cracks are observed most often only 5-8 years after installation of the wind turbines. The most often emergency repair requests are connected with blade bolt replacement, followed by lightning strikes. Lightning strikes are registered relatively often, every 1-2 years, depending on climate. Lightning strikes are also most often observed in monsoon areas of India and are most common reason for the wind turbine downtimes.

Automated summary

Results of a survey conducted by service companies in India on failure mechanisms of wind turbine blades show that surface erosion is the most common damage, followed by lightning strikes. Leading edge erosion can persist for 1-2 years after installation, while structural cracks are usually observed 5-8 years later. The most frequent emergency repair requests are for blade bolt replacement, with lightning strikes occurring every 1-2 years depending on climate. Lightning strikes are most common in monsoon areas of India and often lead to wind turbine downtimes.