Deutsche WindGuard has disclosed the necessity for modifying and identifying the basics for anemometer classification set out in IEC 61400-12-1.
To date, it is custom to classify anemometers under the atmospheric ambient conditions of the lab. This does not take into account the operating conditions, especially with regards to air pressure and temperature. Experiments by Deutsche WindGuard now show that ambient conditions have a much higher influence on the behaviour of sensors than previously assumed.
Deutsche WindGuard Wind Tunnel Services GmbH managing director Dieter Westermann explained: “As we have extensive experience with the classification of anemometers, we have been aware for some time that the assumptions of the IEC with regards to temperature and air pressure influence were simplified. However, there was no possibility to provide experimental evidence as there was no wind tunnel to recreate these conditions.
“Therefore we built a special pressurised wind tunnel for anemometer classification. In this wind tunnel, we can simulate temperatures ranging from -20° to 40°C and air pressure from 600hPa to 1.100hPa. This enables us to reproduce ambient conditions of wind energy sites from the Sahara desert to mountains in the Andes in our lab here in Varel.”
The first measurement campaign clearly indicates that the assumptions building the basis for anemometer classification according to IEC 61400-12-1 are not complete. Detailed results can be found in the publication: “Anemometer calibration at different air temperatures and air pressures” on the WindGuard website. In the following months, WindGuard, in cooperation with anemometer manufacturers, will conduct further systematic research on staple anemometer types.