Turbulence intensity (TI) is a key parameter in wind project design, influencing turbine class selection, site suitability and structural loading. It has also been a challenging parameter to measure with vertical profiling lidar compared with traditional cup anemometers. Vaisala has introduced WindCube Pure TI, a turbulence intensity reconstruction algorithm for WindCube vertical profiling lidar.
The algorithm converts 1 Hz WindCube measurements into 10-minute turbulence intensity values at each measurement height, up to 400 metres. It has been developed specifically for vertical profiling lidar applications. The approach enables the use of WindCube as a primary source of turbulence intensity data for wind resource assessment, turbine class selection, site suitability and load assessment, without the need for a dedicated met mast. The system also allows turbulence intensity to be measured directly at hub height and blade tip level, rather than relying on extrapolation from lower measurement points. In addition, the lidar can be relocated to assess conditions at multiple turbine positions or within operating wind farms. WindCube Pure TI is available as a post-processing option in the Compass Renewable platform.
