Modal Frequencies and Dynamic Behaviour of HAWT Structures: A Comparative Analysis of Steel and Composite Materials

Horizontal axis wind turbine towers are widely used to generate renewable energy worldwide; however, their slender design means they lack stable dynamic behaviour under lateral loads. This study aims to analyze the modal frequencies of wind turbine towers using Autodesk Fusion 360’s simulation analysis tool. The research examines how structures built with different materials respond in terms of modal frequencies. The tool assesses how specific mass participation factors for different materials influence structural dynamics. These factors indicate how much mass participates in each mode shape. The results will provide engineers with valuable data for designing wind turbine towers, helping them select optimal materials for improved performance and stability. Fusion 360’s simulation features are used to create a 3D model of a skyscraper that is 87.6 m tall with varying diameters. This study investigates the modal frequencies of towers constructed from structural steel, high-modulus carbon fiber reinforced polymer (CFRP) and glass fiber reinforced polymer (GFRP). It demonstrates how properties of these materials affect structural movement. Comparing the modal behaviours of stainless steel (dominant frequencies: 0.866–0.867 Hz), CFRP (1.615–1.617 Hz) and GFRP (0.472 Hz), we see that CFRP’s frequency range is about 86–87% higher than GFRP’s and also exceeds steel’s by 86%. The mass participation variables for each mode and shape reveal how much of the structure’s mass is involved in its dynamic response, providing further insight into how each material influences the structure’s dynamic behaviour.