Aerodynamic and structural aspects of swept blades in the context of wind turbine load reduction

For the investigation of the passive technology in the Smart Blades project two different approaches have been chosen for the bend-twist-coupling effect. Structural bend-twist-coupling by implementing off-axis laminae in the layup of the blade and geometrical bend-twist coupling by sweeping the blade shape within the rotorplane. This report contains the data of the swept blade and the results of the load analysis which were determined during the investigations. The swept blade configuration has shown a remarkable fatigue load reduction at the tower and blade root. On the contrary some extreme loads have increased. Therefore the usage of swept blades at current turbines must be investigated individually to retain margins.