8. Evaluation of Lightning Strike Distance of Wind Turbine Blades

The chapter presents an advanced electrical geometric model for evaluating the lightning strike distance of wind turbine blades. Traditional methods, based on operational data and lightning current, fail to consider the complex rotating structure of wind turbine blades and the presence of air terminals. The paper introduces the concept of dynamic striking distance, which varies across different blade positions and angles. This model accounts for the varying striking distances between air terminals and the blade body, as well as the impact of blade rotation. The dynamic striking distance exhibits a distribution characteristic, with striking distances present at both air terminals and the blade body, albeit shorter. The model provides a more accurate representation of lightning strike distances, crucial for effective lightning protection calculations in wind turbine design and maintenance.