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Structural Tests

A full-scale structural test was conducted on a 25-ft long decommissioned wind turbine blade (DWTB) specimen to evaluate its bending capacity in the edgewise direction. The test was performed using a 600-kip MTS vertical loading system. The DWTB specimen was oriented edgewise and subjected to a three-point bending test, with the load applied at the midpoint. The support conditions included a roller at one end and a hinge at the other, with lateral supports added to prevent movement, ensuring zero friction. The test was conducted under displacement control, with support reactions measured using a load cell. Data was collected through a Data Acquisition System (DAQ) managed by an HBM QuantumX-MX1615B, running HBM CatmanEasy software for synchronized displacement and load data collection. The system was also integrated with MTS systems for comprehensive monitoring and analysis.

Str Test Specimen 1  Str Test Specimen 2

25ft Long DWTB Specimen Structural Testing setup with lateral support

 

HBM-Catman

HBM-Catman Data Acquisition System

 

Supports for Test 1  Supports for Test 2

Supports for DWTB Specimen Test