Course Summary

5 MW NREL Wind Turbine CAD modeling course. Wind turbines play an important role in generating electricity from wind energy and make a significant contribution to renewable energy today. In 2023, global energy consumption reached 1.7×10^15 kWh, where wind energy accounted for approximately 2.3×10^12 kWh, or about 7.81% of global electricity generation. The Global Wind Energy Council (GWEC) predicts that wind energy will generate 20% of the world’s electricity by 2030. Denmark is a clear example, which in 2023 will produce 58% of its electricity from wind energy. To achieve this ambitious goal, it is necessary to design larger and more efficient wind turbines. While both onshore and offshore wind turbines are used, offshore turbines are generally more efficient due to higher wind speeds, more consistent wind conditions, and the lack of obstructions found in coastal environments. In addition, offshore turbines use more cross-sectional area and can support larger structures. Buoyancy forces also play an important role in the design and stability of these turbines. In this course, students learn to create a detailed CAD model of NREL’s 5 MW wind turbine. Using the 6 MW Dutch Offshore Wind Energy Converter (DOWEC) turbine as a reference, scaled by NREL to develop a 5 MW base model, students will gain hands-on experience in wind turbine design. They will acquire skills in obtaining accurate data and characterizing turbine aerodynamic properties at various span/radial locations. By the end of the course, students will be proficient in modeling wind turbines in SolidWorks and will be ready to use their CAD models for subsequent CFD simulations. What you will learn in the 5 MW NREL Wind Turbine CAD modeling course Students will become proficient in using SolidWorks to create detailed, detailed 3D models of NREL’s 5 MW wind turbine. Students will understand key engineering principles and design considerations specific to wind turbines. Students will be able to apply industry standards and best practices in wind turbine design to ensure their CAD models meet real-world performance. Students will become proficient in preparing and optimizing SolidWorks CAD models for CFD simulations, ensuring that meshing is accurate and efficient. This course is suitable for people who Undergraduate or graduate students in mechanical engineering, aerospace engineering, or related fields who are looking to enhance their skills in CAD modeling and CFD analysis. Engineers working in the renewable energy sector or involved in mechanical design who want to gain advanced skills in CAD modeling for wind turbines. People who specialize in mechanical design, simulation or computational analysis and want to deepen their knowledge of wind turbine modeling and performance analysis. People interested in renewable energy technologies, especially wind energy, and looking for practical skills in CAD modeling and simulation.