Finite element analysis of wind turbine blades subjected to torsional loads: Shell vs solid elements

In this work the modelling of wind turbine blades subjected to torsional loads is explored. Usually, are modelled using Outer Mold Layer (OML) shell models, whose mid-surface does not coincide with nodal plane, and have been shown capture their behaviour correctly in loadings, highly underestimating stiffness blade. To better understand differences between OML models solid element a cylinder tube first analysed conclusions from study applied for models. It was observed that artificial deformation modes were responsible erroneous results when offset elements. These can be drastically improved by controlling associated drilling Degree Of Freedom (DOF). Furthermore, high fidelity definition geometry blade crucial accurately its torsion. By carefully these parameters, difference reduced 35% 5%.