Energy Systems

Wind turbines must meet high requirements in terms of efficiency and noise development. The institute has therefore implemented procedures for the simultaneous aerodynamic and aeroacoustic optimization of wings and rotor blades and is involved in international projects. Our tools include numerical and semi-empirical simulation methods, innovative experimental methods and measurement technology from the aviation sector, high-performance computing clusters, wind tunnels and wind turbines in the Wind Energy Research Park (WiValdi). We carry out performance and noise emission calculations and research noise reduction measures and flow control measures on rotor blades. In our wind tunnels, we test new airfoil designs or rotor blade components and carry out generic experiments on aerodynamic and aeroacoustic modeling. Together with other DLR institutes, we carry out multidisciplinary analyses taking into account aeroelasticity, structure, atmospheric physics and control. At the Wind Energy Research Park, we can make use of extensive validation and testing possibilities, test new rotor technologies in a real environment along the entire physical effect chain and thus advance their degree of maturity for industrial utilization. With our work, we are facing up to the challenges of the energy transition and the resulting questions: What are suitable areas for wind turbines? How can we create more acceptance among the population? What means can we use to make the construction and operation of wind farms even more cost-efficient?