MAE 4020 - Wind Power

(CU-SBY)

Fall. 3 credits. Letter grades only.

Prerequisite: MAE 3230 (or equivalent) or MAE 3050, MAE 3270. Satisfies senior design requirement if enrolled in MAE 4021. Co-meets with MAE 4021/MAE 5020.

R. Barthelmie.

Main features of energy conversion by wind turbines. Emphasis on characterization of the atmospheric boundary layer, aerodynamics of horizontal axis wind turbines, and performance prediction. Structural effects, power train considerations, siting and wind farm planning, offshore.

Outcome 1: Students will be able to understand the need for carbon-free energy production and the functions of wind turbines.

Outcome 2: Students will be able to calculate mean wind fields.

Outcome 3: Students will be able to analyze the aerodynamics of wind turbine blades.

Outcome 4: Students will be able to predict efficiency of energy extraction

Outcome 5: Students will be able to understand the basics of electrical generators and mechanical to electrical energy conversion

Outcome 6: Students will be able to understand the factors in choice of sites for turbines and wind farms.