Carry out fatigue tests on large components in a more energy-efficient and cost-reducing way? The idea: resonance-based testing!

On 06.12.22, this topic was hotly discussed at a workshop of the ResoWind research project funded by the Federal Ministry of Economics and Climate Protection. The main topic was resonance-based testing, which can save a lot of energy. With synchronised unbalance drives, in contrast to conventional servo-hydraulic actuators, it is possible to generate cyclic fatigue stresses with minimal energy input and high excitation frequency at the same time.

In the research project "Resonance-based test methods for cost- and time-optimised service life tests on support structure elements of wind turbines" ResoWind, the aim was to further develop the resonance test method with unbalanced motors and to make it practicable for different applications. Fraunhofer IWES, the Institute of Concrete Structures at Technische Universität Dresden and the Test Centre Supporting Structures Hannover (TTH) developed three demonstrators for this purpose with which the resonance test method could be validated and thus a wide range of applications is possible.

The project partners, associated partners and interested parties came together for the workshop in the rooms of the TTH to discuss the topic of resonance test stands for large-scale component tests. First, the three demonstrators were presented to the participants as well as the results that emerged from test trials. Afterwards, the participants discussed and deliberated on possible fields of application, optimisation and further development.

We would like to thank all associated partners and participants for the interesting exchange and the helpful suggestions!