METHOD OF FORMING A STRUCTURAL CONNECTION BETWEEN A SPAR CAP AND A FAIRING FOR A WIND TURBINE BLADE

摘要

A method of forming a structural connection between a spar cap 14 and an aerodynamic fairing 12 A composite comprising an uncured matrix and a compressible solid is applied between the spar cap and fairing and is then compressed and cured to adhere the fairing to the spar cap. The cured matrix composite has a void volume of at least 20%. The high void volume means that as the fairing is compressed into place and compresses the composite, it has space in which to deform so as not to place undue stress on the fairing and to produce a lightweight connection.

主权项

1. A method of forming a structural connection between a spar cap and an aerodynamic fairing for a wind turbine blade, comprising the steps of:
applying a composite between the spar cap and the fairing, the composite comprising an uncured matrix and a compressible solid; compressing the compressible solid so that the composite substantially occupies a space between the spar cap and the fairing; curing the matrix to maintain the compressible solid in its compressed state with the composite having a void volume of at least 20%; and adhering the fairing to the spar cap as the matrix is cured.