Optimizing Wind Turbine Blade Performance: A Comparative Analysis of Mechanical Properties in CFRP and GFRP Composites

The investigation of the mechanical characteristics of composite materials is of utmost importance in the optimization of wind turbine blade design, with the goal of achieving enhanced performance and efficiency. This particular study aims to conduct a comparative analysis between Carbon Fiber Reinforced Polymer (CFRP) and Glass Fiber Reinforced Polymer (GFRP) composites, specifically for wind turbine blades. The mechanical properties, stress factors, and fatigue behavior of both CFRP and GFRP are evaluated through the utilization of numerical simulations using Inventor software. An examination of CFRP reveals promising mechanical properties, wherein the von Mises stress ranges from 0.576 MPa to 1.152 MPa, the principal stress varies between 0.531 MPa and 1.061 MPa, and the displacement changes from 0.003182 mm to 0.006364 mm. Furthermore, CFRP demonstrates a decreasing fatigue slope, which indicates a prolonged lifespan. In comparison, this study thoroughly scrutinizes GFRP in order to gain a comprehensive understanding of its mechanical behavior. Unfortunately, due to variations in manufacturing, reliable data for GFRP was not available. The advantages and effects of incorporating CFRP in wind turbine blades are extensively analyzed. Empirical results and numerical analyses demonstrate that the utilization of CFRP significantly enhances turbine performance, reduces blade weight, increases energy exchange efficiency, decreases power generation delays, and minimizes maintenance requirements. In conclusion, this comparative analysis highlights the superior mechanical properties of CFRP, rendering it a more viable choice for wind turbine blades in comparison to GFRP. This research provides valuable insights to the renewable energy sector, assisting in informed decision-making regarding material selection for optimal wind turbine performance