An experimental approach of the effects of lightning currents on rotor blade tips of wind turbines

Abstract

Recent editions of standards for lightning protection of wind turbines recommend that air termination systems of rotor blades shall withstand severe requirements in terms of lightning current. An exception to this recommendation can be suggested, if a risk analysis shows that a lower lightning protection level - LPL can be achieved in the geographical location, where the wind park will be erected. In order to comply with the latest edition of these standards and the highest LPL, an experimental assessment in the high-current lab at the university was conducted; different configurations of air terminations systems where tested, which aim to reproduce “short duration strokes” and “long duration strokes”. The classification of “passed” or “not-passed” was chosen for this validation.