Evaluate the influence of icing on the rotor blades of a wind turbine with a horizontal axis to change its operating parameters

Currently the most commonly used wind turbines are three-blade turbines with a horizontal axis of rotation. The basic function of wind turbines is to convert the kinetic energy of the air into mechanical energy in the form of rotational motion of the rotor. This function is accomplished by rotor blades which, similarly to the wing of the aircraft, produce a lift force directed perpendicular to the movement of the air molecules flowing the blade profile, thus forcing the rotation of the rotor. The problem of operation of wind turbines is connected with high susceptibility to weather conditions. Under atmospheric conditions close to 0°C and less, and with high humidity, the wind turbine blades may be icing. Accumulation of ice on the wind turbine blades causes a violate air flow through the profile of the blades. This condition leads to a change in the wind speed range needed to generate the rotation of the wind turbine rotor and to reduce the efficiency of the turbine. To evaluate the effect of icing on turbine rotor blades, performed a numerical analysis of the model blade profile. The results of the numerical analysis allowed to evaluate the influence of icing of rotor blades on the change of operational parameters of wind turbine. The conclusions of the numerical simulation are presented in this article.