MAE 4021 - Wind Power

(CU-SBY)

Fall. 4 credits. Letter grades only.

Prerequisite: MAE 3230 (or equivalent) or MAE 3050, MAE 3270. Prerequisite or corequisite: MAE 4300. Enrollment limited to: seniors or permission of instructor. Fulfills senior design requirement. Co-meets with MAE 4020/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. Senior Design version of MAE 4020. Senior Design report required.

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

Outcome 2: Be able to calculate mean wind fields.

Outcome 3: Analyze the aerodynamics of wind turbine blades.

Outcome 4: Predict efficiency of energy extraction.

Outcome 5: Understand the basics of electrical generators and mechanical to electrical energy conversion.

Outcome 6: Know how to choose sites for turbines and wind farms.

Outcome 7: Demonstrate the ability to design a wind power system or component.