What it is

DragonScale is an aerofoil-based vortex generator system designed for distributed installation along the blade span.

Unlike conventional flat-plate VGs, DragonScale consists of:

• Low-profile, aerofoil-shaped fins
• Spanwise-optimized spacing and orientation
• Configurations adapted to local airfoil geometry and Reynolds number regimes

The system is applicable across:

Outboard sections affected by surface roughness or leading-edge erosion

Inboard (root) region with high thickness profiles (t/c ~30–40%)

Mid-span transition regions

What it does

DragonScale generates controlled streamwise vortices that:

• Re-energize the boundary layer
• Delay flow separation
• Improve flow attachment across a wider angle of attack range

Performance effects:

• Increased lift coefficient (ΔCl) in stalled or near-stalled regions
• Improved lift-to-drag ratio (Cl/Cd)
• Reduced sensitivity to surface roughness (e.g. erosion-induced Ra > 100–300 µm)

Compared to traditional VG designs:

Improved aerodynamic efficiency across operating envelope

Lower parasitic drag at higher wind speeds

More uniform vortex distribution

Why it matters

Performance under real conditions

Maintains performance in offshore and high-turbulence environments

Mitigates aerodynamic losses caused by:

Leading edge erosion

Contamination

Manufacturing tolerances

Energy yield impact

• Typical AEP increase: +1–4% (site and turbine dependent)
• Strongest gains in sub-rated region (4–10 m/s)
• Improved rotor torque contribution from inboard sections

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Load and structural integrity

• Designed to be load-neutral:
  • No significant increase in flapwise/edgewise loads
  • No exceedance of design load envelopes (IEC 61400)

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Durability and lifecycle

• Designed for 20–25 year service life
• مقاistant to:
  • UV exposure
  • Rain erosion
  • Temperature cycling
• Adhesive systems validated for long-term bonding under cyclic loading

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Engineering integration

• Compatible with:
  • CFD workflows (RANS-based validation)
  • Aeroelastic tools (e.g. Bladed, HAWC2)
• Delivered with:
  • Performance curves
  • Load assessments
  • Installation specifications