Reinforcing system for tower of wind turbine, tower of wind turbine and method for reinforcing tower of wind turbine

Abstract

The invention relates to a reinforcing system for a tower (1) of a wind turbine, which prevents the occurrence or propagation of cracks or openings in the surface of a concrete element of the tower of the wind turbine when the tower is subjected to post-tensioning forces in order to exert a radial compressive force on the concrete element, the invention also relates to a tower (1) of a wind turbine comprising at least one reinforcement system (2, 3) and to a method for reinforcing a tower of a wind turbine.

Description

TECHNICAL FIELD

[0001] The present invention relates to a reinforcement system for a tower of a wind turbine, which system aims to increase the resistance of the concrete elements on which it is to be arranged and, in addition, to avoid the appearance or propagation of cracks or openings, if any, on the surface of the concrete elements of the tower of the wind turbine when the tower is subjected to post-tensioning forces, thereby exerting a radial compression force on the concrete elements.

[0002] The present invention also relates to a tower of a wind turbine comprising at least one reinforcement system.

[0003] Furthermore, the present invention relates to a method of reinforcing a tower of a wind turbine. BACKGROUND

[0004] The evolution of current wind power technology aims to design wind turbines with increasingly greater power output, which implies an increase in the size of the constituent parts of the wind turbine. The development of higher towers must take into account a set of design criteria, such as load, material resistance and dynamic performance, as well as construction, transport and installation conditions.

[0005] Towers up to 160 meters in height can be manufactured following a full-concrete manufacturing method or a hybrid concrete-steel manufacturing method.

[0006] In the manufacturing of hybrid concrete-steel towers, the tower comprises a lower tubular tower section made of concrete, an upper tubular tower section made of steel and an adapter for connecting the two tower sections, wherein the adapter can comprise a concrete element and a steel element, the steel element comprising at least one flange which preferably completely covers the surface of the concrete element which, in the installed state, is located at the top.

[0007] In the manufacturing of full-concrete towers, the tower comprises at least one concrete tower section and an adapter arranged on top of the first concrete tower section and located below at least one wind turbine component, preferably the nacelle. The adapter can take the same form as disclosed for the hybrid tower, connecting the at least one concrete tower section and the at least one wind turbine component.

[0008] In both, full-concrete towers and hybrid towers made of steel and concrete, a post-tensioning system (e.g. cables, steel strands, steel wires, bundles of steel strands...) is usually provided to ensure that the concrete is in a state of compression stress for most of the lifetime of the wind turbine. However, this results in an increase in the load taken by the concrete elements.

[0009] Typically, the post-tensioning elements (e.g. steel strands) are distributed uniformly around the circumference of the tower so that the resultant post-tensioning force falls approximately on the central axis of the tower, thereby avoiding eccentric forces generated by the post-tensioning system.

[0010] However, in many cases, a load eccentricity with respect to the axis of the tower wall (steel strand) occurs, or simply a concentrated load (bolt) involving radial forces, which can cause radial vertical cracks in the upper part of the concrete tower (or in the upper part of the concrete portion in hybrid towers).

[0011] Radial forces can cause hoop stresses, which, depending on their magnitude, can cause vertical cracks, loss of stiffness of the structural elements, changes in stress flow and fatigue damage.

[0012] The reinforcement system and the related method of the present invention solve all the above-mentioned drawbacks. SUMMARY

[0013] The present invention relates to a reinforcement system for a tower of a wind turbine, which is intended to increase the resistance of the concrete element on which it is to be arranged and, moreover, to avoid the appearance or propagation (if present) of cracks or openings on the surface of the concrete element of the tower of the wind turbine when the tower is subjected to post-tensioning forces.

[0014] The reinforcement system is intended to be arranged on a tower of a wind turbine, wherein the tower comprises at least a first concrete element and wherein the reinforcement system comprises: at least one reinforcing element which, in use, at least partially surrounds the first concrete element, wherein the at least one reinforcing element is configured to exert a radial compression force on at least a portion of the first concrete element.

[0015] This increases the resistance of the concrete element on which the reinforcement system is arranged (located outside the concrete element). Moreover, if a crack or opening is present on the surface of at least a portion of the first concrete element on which it is arranged, the reinforcement system thus defined strengthens that portion, avoiding the propagation of the crack or opening to the remaining portion of the first concrete element, which could cause damage that could lead to the collapse of the wind turbine.

[0016] In both cases, the hoop stresses are at least partially limited and supported by the reinforcement system thus defined, so that the latter induces a radial force that compensates for the force coming from the tower.

[0017] Optionally, the at least one reinforcing element, in use, at least partially surrounds the first concrete element at least in the circumferential direction. Preferably, the at least one reinforcing element comprises at least a substantially cylindrical or frustoconical wall which, in use, at least partially surrounds the first concrete element. In this way, the cylindrical or frustoconical wall acts as a reinforcement sleeve, following the external geometry of the at least first concrete element of the tower.

[0018] It will be understood that the circumferential direction refers to a circumferential direction comprised in a horizontal plane at a certain height of the first concrete element, at which height the at least one reinforcing element surrounds the first concrete element, wherein the centre of the circumference defining the circumferential direction coincides with the centre of the tower drum.

[0019] Optionally, the cylindrical or frustoconical wall extends in use along a first length in a vertical direction of at least a portion of the first concrete element.

[0020] Optionally, the at least one reinforcing element comprises at least two sectors, which at least partially surround the first concrete element in use at least in the circumferential direction. Preferably, the at least one reinforcing element comprises four sectors, which surround the first concrete element in use at least in the circumferential direction.

[0021] Optionally, the reinforcement system further comprises an attachment device configured to attach the at least two sectors of the at least one reinforcing element, wherein each of the at least two sectors comprises a first flange to which the attachment device is attached. Preferably, each of the at least two sectors further comprises a bracket configured to reinforce the attachment between the at least two sectors.

[0022] Optionally, the at least one reinforcing element at least partially surrounds the first concrete element in use at least in a polygonal direction. Preferably, the at least one reinforcing element comprises at least a wall of a substantially vertical polygon, which at least partially surrounds the first concrete element in use in the polygonal direction and in the vertical direction.

[0023] It will be understood that the polygonal direction refers to a polygonal direction comprised in a horizontal plane at a certain height of the first concrete element, at which height the at least one reinforcing element surrounds the first concrete element, wherein the centre of the polygon defining the polygonal direction coincides with the centre of the tower drum.

[0024] Optionally, the reinforcement system further comprises a temporary or permanent element configured to temporarily or permanently, respectively, take up the at least one reinforcing element. Thus, the temporary or permanent element provides support to the at least one reinforcing element at least until the at least one reinforcing element exerts a radial compression force on at least a portion of the first concrete element.

[0025] Optionally, the at least one reinforcing element at least partially embraces the first concrete element in use.

[0026] Optionally, the reinforcement system further comprises a non-shrinkage material arranged in a first gap which, in use, extends between the at least one reinforcing element and the first concrete element. Preferably, the temporary or permanent element also provides support for the non-shrinkage material until the non-shrinkage material hardens. This is dependent on the geometry of the tower and the manufacturing and assembly tolerances of the tower and the at least one reinforcing element. Non-limiting examples of non-shrinkage materials are a layer of resin (thinner) or a layer of mortar (thicker) to ensure contact between the first concrete element and the at least one reinforcing element.

[0027] Optionally, the at least one reinforcing element comprises, in addition to the circumferential or polygonal wall, a substantially horizontal wall which, in use, surrounds the first concrete element protruding from the first concrete element, such that the non-shrinkage material is arranged in a first gap on the substantially horizontal wall.

[0028] Optionally, the reinforcement system further comprises a fixing device configured to fix the at least one reinforcing element to at least a portion of the first concrete element. Preferably, the fixing device is configured to fix the at least one reinforcing element to an outer surface of the first concrete element.

[0029] Optionally, the reinforcement system further comprises a tensioning system configured to exert a radial compression force on the at least one reinforcing element. Thus, the radial compression force exerted by the tensioning system on the at least one reinforcing element is transmitted from the reinforcing element to the first concrete element. Preferably, the tensioning system comprises: - at least one tensioning element having two ends; - at least one anchoring element configured to receive at least one of the two ends of the tensioning element; and - at least one fixing element configured to fix at least one of the two ends of the tensioning element to the at least one anchoring element.

[0030] Optionally, the first flange is configured to fix the position of the at least one tensioning element at a first height in the vertical direction of the at least one reinforcing element. Preferably, each first flange comprises at least one opening through which the at least one tensioning element passes.

[0031] Optionally, the reinforcement system comprises a plurality of reinforcing elements which, in use, are arranged adjacent to each other in the vertical direction at least around the first concrete element.

[0032] Optionally, the at least one or more reinforcing elements at least surround the first concrete element in the vertical direction with a length of preferably, but not limited to, at least 0.4 meters to 2 meters.

[0033] The invention also relates to a tower of a wind power generator comprising at least one reinforcement system as described above.

[0034] Optionally, the at least one reinforcing element of the at least one reinforcement system covers at least a first tower surface in a region subjected to critical loads or damages. The region subjected to critical loads or damages is a region subjected to stress concentration. Regions with the highest stress, i.e. internal forces of the structure, are most prone to damages. Thus, such a region subjected to stress concentration can be, for example, a region comprising a significant change in cross-sectional dimension and / or a significant change in material properties.

[0035] For example, a region comprising a significant change in cross-sectional dimension can be, for example, a region comprising and / or located near a hole, a bolt, a tensioning cable, a sharp corner and / or a region with a change in wall thickness of a concrete element.

[0036] As mentioned above, such a stress concentration can be caused, for example, by a significant change in wall thickness of a concrete element, for example, a significant change in wall thickness of a key block near a horizontal joint, which leads to a reduction in cross-sectional area, or by radial vertical cracks in the upper part of a concrete tower or in the concrete part of a hybrid tower, which lead to a change in material properties during the lifetime of the project.

[0037] Optionally, the first concrete element is a first concrete section of the tower. This can be the case for a full concrete tower, wherein the tower comprises at least one concrete tower section and an adapter arranged above the first concrete tower section and below at least one wind turbine component, preferably a nacelle. Preferably, the tower further comprises a second concrete section and a horizontal joint arranged between the first concrete section and the second concrete section, wherein the at least one reinforcing element also at least partially surrounds the horizontal joint and, optionally, the second concrete section. In this way, not only the first concrete element, but also the horizontal joint and, optionally, the second concrete section are reinforced by the reinforcement system.

[0038] Optionally, the first concrete element is a concrete transition element being part of the adapter. This can be the case for a hybrid concrete-steel tower, wherein the tower comprises an adapter and at least a first steel section. Preferably, the tower further comprises a first concrete section and a horizontal joint arranged between the adapter and the first concrete section, wherein the at least one reinforcing element also at least partially surrounds the horizontal joint and, optionally, the first concrete section. The adapter serves as a transition element between the first concrete section with a large diameter and the first steel section with a smaller diameter. In this way, not only the first concrete element, but also the horizontal joint and, optionally, the first concrete section are reinforced by the reinforcement system. In this case, the adapter serves as a transition between a concrete tower section with a large diameter and a steel tower section with a smaller diameter.

[0039] Optionally, the tower tube comprises at least two reinforcement systems as described above, which are arranged adjacent or spaced apart along the first length in the vertical direction of the at least first concrete element.

[0040] Optionally, the tower tube comprises at least two reinforcement systems as described above, i.e. at least a first reinforcement system and at least a second reinforcement system, wherein the first reinforcement system is a reinforcement system surrounding at least a part of the first concrete element and the second reinforcement system surrounds the second concrete segment in case of a full concrete tower tube or the first concrete segment in case of a hybrid concrete-steel tower tube, respectively.

[0041] The present invention also relates to a method of reinforcing a tower tube of a wind power generator, the tower tube comprising at least a first concrete element; wherein the method comprises: - a step of arranging at least one reinforcing element at least partially surrounding the first concrete element such that a radial compression force is exerted on at least a part of the first concrete element.

[0042] Optionally, the step of arranging at least one reinforcing element at least partially surrounding the first concrete element is performed by arranging the at least one reinforcing element at least partially surrounding the first concrete element in a circumferential direction. Preferably, the step of arranging the at least one reinforcing element further comprises a step of arranging at least a substantially circumferential wall at least partially surrounding the first concrete element in the circumferential direction and in the vertical direction.

[0043] Optionally, the step of arranging at least one reinforcing element at least partially surrounding the first concrete element is performed by arranging the at least one reinforcing element at least partially surrounding the first concrete element in a polygonal direction. Preferably, the step of arranging the at least one reinforcing element further comprises a step of arranging at least a substantially polygonal wall at least partially surrounding the first concrete element in the polygonal direction and in the vertical direction.

[0044] Optionally, the first concrete element is a first concrete segment of the tower tube and the step of arranging at least one reinforcing element at least partially surrounding the first concrete element is a step of arranging the at least one reinforcing element at least partially surrounding the first concrete segment in a circumferential direction. Preferably, the tower tube further comprises a second concrete segment and a horizontal joint arranged between the first concrete segment and the second concrete segment, and wherein the step of arranging the at least one reinforcing element at least partially surrounding the first concrete segment further comprises a step of arranging the at least one reinforcing element at least partially surrounding the horizontal joint and, optionally, at least partially surrounding the second concrete segment.

[0045] Optionally, the tower further comprises an adapter and at least a first steel segment, wherein the first concrete element is a concrete transition element that is part of the adapter, and wherein the step of arranging the at least one reinforcement element at least partially around the first concrete element is a step of arranging the at least one reinforcement element at least partially around the concrete transition element of the adapter. Preferably, the tower further comprises a first concrete segment and a horizontal joint arranged between the adapter and the first concrete segment, and wherein the step of arranging the at least one reinforcement element at least partially around the first concrete transition element further comprises a step of arranging the at least one reinforcement element also at least partially around the horizontal joint, and optionally at least partially around the first concrete segment.

[0046] Optionally, the method further comprises a step of temporarily or permanently supporting the at least one reinforcement element by a temporary or permanent element, respectively.

[0047] Optionally, the step of arranging the at least one reinforcement element further comprises a step of leaving a first gap between the at least one reinforcement element and the first concrete element. Preferably, the method further comprises a step of filling the first gap with a non-shrinkage material.

[0048] Optionally, in addition to arranging the at least one reinforcement element at least partially around the first concrete element, the at least one reinforcement element is arranged at least in a circumferential or polygonal direction around the first concrete element, the method further comprises a step of arranging the at least one reinforcement element around and protruding from the first concrete element in a substantially horizontal direction. Thus, the method further comprises a step of filling the at least one reinforcement element with a non-shrinkage material.

[0049] Optionally, in the step of leaving a first gap between the at least one reinforcement element and the first concrete element, the first gap is also at least partially left between the at least one reinforcement element and the horizontal joint, and optionally between the at least one reinforcement element and the second concrete segment or the first concrete element, respectively.

[0050] Optionally, the method further comprises a step of fixing the at least one reinforcement element to at least a portion of the first concrete element.

[0051] Optionally, the method further comprises a step of tensioning the at least one reinforcement element to exert a radial compression force on the at least one reinforcement element. Thus, the step of arranging the at least one reinforcement element at least partially around the first concrete element such that a radial compression force is exerted on at least a portion of the first concrete element comprises a step of tensioning the at least one reinforcement element to exert a radial compression force on the at least one reinforcement element.

[0052] Preferably, the step of tensioning further comprises: - a step of arranging at least one tensioning element having two ends, the tensioning element surrounding at least a portion of the at least one reinforcing element; - a step of anchoring at least one of the two ends of the at least one tensioning element; and - a step of fixing at least one of the two ends of the tensioning element to the at least one anchoring element.

[0053] Optionally, the method further comprises a step of reducing the post-tensioning load of the tower drum relative to the nominal load prior to the step of arranging the at least one reinforcing element.

[0054] Optionally, the method further comprises a step of restoring the post-tensioning load of the tower drum to the nominal load after the step of arranging the at least one reinforcing element. BRIEF DESCRIPTION OF DRAWINGS

[0055] Figure 1 A top view of the first concrete element (first concrete segment) is shown on the right side, demonstrating a radial crack that has occurred in the area of the first concrete element (first concrete segment) that was subjected to a critical load or damage prior to the arrangement of the at least one reinforcing system, and a cross section CC of an upper area of a keystone, in which the radial crack has extended in a vertical direction along the keystone, is shown on the left side.

[0056] Figure 2 A perspective view of the reinforcing system of the present invention is shown, comprising at least one reinforcing element that at least partially surrounds a first concrete element, which is an adapter.

[0057] Figure 3 A plan view of the reinforcing system is shown. Figure 2

[0058] Figure 4 A cross section AB of the reinforcing system is shown, in which the first gap is filled with a non-shrinking material. Figure 3

[0059] Another embodiment of the reinforcing system of the present invention is shown, comprising four sectors. Figure 5

[0060] Another embodiment of the reinforcing system of the present invention is shown. Figure 6

[0061] Another embodiment of the reinforcing system of the present invention is shown. Figure 7

[0062] Another embodiment of the reinforcing system of the present invention is shown. Figure 8

[0063] Figure 9 ​​A full concrete tower is shown, wherein the reinforcement system of the present invention is arranged at least partially around the first concrete segment, the horizontal joint between the first concrete segment and the second concrete segment, and the second concrete segment.

[0064] Figure 10 A hybrid concrete-steel tower is shown, wherein the reinforcement system of the present invention is arranged at least partially around the adapter, the horizontal joint between the adapter and the first concrete segment, and the first concrete segment. DETAILED DESCRIPTION

[0065] The present invention is described in detail below. The present invention relates to a reinforcement system for a tower (1) of a wind power generator, the tower (1) comprising at least a first concrete element (10, 11); and

[0066] wherein the reinforcement system comprises: at least one reinforcing element (2, 3) which, in use, at least partially surrounds the first concrete element (10, 11), wherein the at least one reinforcing element (2, 3) is configured to exert a radial compressive force on at least a portion of the first concrete element (10, 11).

[0067] In an embodiment as shown, the at least one reinforcing element (2, 3) at least partially surrounds the first concrete element (10, 11) in use at least in a circumferential direction, and comprises at least a substantially cylindrical or frustoconical wall (2) which, in use, at least partially surrounds the first concrete element (10, 11) depending on the geometry of the first concrete element (10, 11). Other variations of the form of the at least one reinforcing element (2, 3) which at least partially surrounds the first concrete element (10, 11) in use are also included in the present invention.

[0068] Optionally, the at least one reinforcing element (2, 3) further comprises a substantially horizontal wall (3) which, in use, surrounds the first concrete element (10, 11) protruding from the first concrete element (10, 11) such that the non-shrinkage material (6) is arranged in a first gap (5) defined between the first concrete element (10, 11), the substantially horizontal wall (3) and the cylindrical or frustoconical wall (2).

[0069] In other embodiments explained below, the non-shrinkage material (6) is arranged in a first gap (5) defined between the first concrete element (10, 11), the temporary or permanent element (13) and the cylindrical or frustoconical wall (2).

[0070] In Figure 9In the first preferred embodiment shown, the first concrete element (10, 11) is a first concrete section (10) of a tower (1) which is a full concrete tower, wherein the tower (1) comprises the first concrete section (10) and an adapter (40) arranged above the first concrete section (10) and below at least one wind turbine component (50). The tower further comprises a second concrete section (10') and a horizontal joint (12) arranged between the first concrete section (10) and the second concrete section (10'), wherein the at least one reinforcing element (2, 3) also at least partially surrounds the horizontal joint (12) and, optionally, at least partially surrounds the second concrete section (10').

[0071] In Figure 10 In the second preferred embodiment shown, the first concrete element (10, 11) is a concrete transition element (11), wherein the tower (1) is a hybrid concrete-steel tower comprising an adapter (40) and at least a first steel section (30), wherein the concrete transition element (11) is part of the adapter (40). The tower further comprises a first concrete section (10'') and a horizontal joint (12) arranged between the adapter (40) and the first concrete section (10''), wherein the at least one reinforcing element (2, 3) also at least partially surrounds the horizontal joint (12) and, optionally, at least partially surrounds the first concrete section (10''), as Figure 4 shown.

[0072] In the embodiment shown, the reinforcement system further comprises a temporary or permanent element (13) configured to support the at least one reinforcing element (2, 3) in a temporary manner.

[0073] As Figure 4 shown (applicable to both embodiments described above), the reinforcement system further comprises a non-shrinkage material (6) arranged in the first gap (5) extending at least between the at least one reinforcing element (2, 3) and the first concrete element (10, 11). The non-shrinkage material (6) can also be arranged in the first gap extending at least partially between the at least one reinforcing element (2, 3) and the horizontal joint (12) and between the at least one reinforcing element (2, 3) and the second concrete section (10') of the full concrete tower embodiment or the first concrete section (10'') for the hybrid concrete-steel tower embodiment.

[0074] In both embodiments, the reinforcement system further comprises a tensioning system configured to exert a radial compression force on the at least one reinforcing element (2, 3). As Figure 3 shown, the tensioning system can comprise: - two tensioning elements (18), each having two ends (20); - two anchoring elements (19), wherein each anchoring element is configured to receive the two ends (20) of one tensioning element; and - one fixing element (21) configured to fix one end (20) of each of the ends (20) of each tensioning element (18) to one anchoring element (19).

[0075] The at least one reinforcing element (2, 3) can be metallic or made of carbon fibers. In any case, it must be made of a material that works well under tension. If the at least one reinforcing element (2, 3) is metallic, for example a steel reinforcing element, it comprises sectors (2') configured to be pre-assembled and connected at the first concrete element (1), as shown in Figure 5 If the reinforcement is made of carbon fibers, it can be laminated on site or connected at the first concrete element (1) using already laminated plates.

[0076] In other embodiments of the reinforcement system, as shown in Figures 6 to 8 the at least one reinforcing element (2, 3) comprises a curved H-profile or a curved double T-profile (2, 3) Figure 7 , wherein the cylindrical or frustoconical wall (2) is part of the curved H-profile, in this case closer to the first concrete element (10, 11) in use, or comprises a plurality of horizontal walls (3) protruding from the cylindrical or frustoconical wall (2), wherein the tensioning elements (18) of the tensioning system are arranged between the horizontal walls (3).

[0077] The present invention also relates to a method of reinforcing a tower (1) of a wind turbine of any of the above embodiments, the tower (1) comprising at least a first concrete element (10, 11); wherein the method comprises: - a step of arranging at least one reinforcing element (2, 3) at least partially surrounding the first concrete element (10, 11) such that the at least one reinforcing element exerts a radial compression force on at least a portion of the first concrete element (10, 11).

[0078] In embodiments as shown in the figures, the step of arranging at least one reinforcing element (2, 3) at least partially surrounding the first concrete element (10, 11) is performed by arranging at least one reinforcing element (2, 3) at least partially surrounding the first concrete element (10, 11) at least in a circumferential direction, more specifically by arranging at least one substantially vertical circumferential wall (2) at least partially surrounding the first concrete element (10, 11) at least in a circumferential direction and a vertical direction.

[0079] In the embodiment as shown, the method further comprises the step of temporarily supporting the at least one reinforcing element (2, 3) by means of temporary or permanent elements (13).

[0080] In these embodiments, the step of arranging the at least one reinforcing element (2, 3) further comprises the step of leaving a first gap (5) between the at least one reinforcing element (2, 3) and the first concrete element (10, 11), which is not limiting, as the step of arranging the at least one reinforcing element (2, 3) can comprise the step of fixing the at least one reinforcing element (2, 3) to at least a portion of the first concrete element (10, 11), preferably by means of nuts and bolts, so that no first gap (5) is left between the at least one reinforcing element (2, 3) and the first concrete element (10, 11).

[0081] If the method comprises the step of arranging the at least one reinforcing element (2, 3) and leaving a first gap (5) between the at least one reinforcing element (2, 3) and the first concrete element (10, 11), the method further comprises the step of filling the first gap (5) with a non-shrinkage material (6).

[0082] As explained above for the reinforcement system, for the same reason, in the step of leaving a first gap (5) between the at least one reinforcing element (2, 3) and the first concrete element (10, 11), for both of the above-mentioned embodiments, the first gap (5) is also left at least partially between the at least one reinforcing element (2, 3) and the horizontal joint (12), and optionally between the at least one reinforcing element (2, 3) and the second concrete segment (10’), or between the at least one reinforcing element (2, 3) and the first concrete element (10’), respectively.

[0083] Preferably, the at least one reinforcing element (2, 3) is arranged at a certain height in the tower (1), and the arranging step uses an auxiliary platform suspended on a rotatable wind turbine component, and the platform can rotate with it, as the at least one reinforcing element (2, 3) preferably covers 360 degrees, i.e. the step of arranging the at least one reinforcing element (2, 3) at least partially surrounds the first concrete element (10, 11) such that the at least one reinforcing element exerts a radial compressive force on at least a portion of the first concrete element (10, 11) comprises two steps of arranging a sector of the at least one reinforcing element (2, 3) and a step of rotating the platform between the two arranging sector steps.

[0084] In the preferred embodiment, the method comprises the step of tensioning the at least one reinforcing element (2, 3) to exert a radial compressive force on the at least one reinforcing element (2, 3), wherein the tensioning step further comprises: - a step of arranging four tensioning elements (18), each having two ends (20) around at least one portion of at least one reinforcing element (2, 3); - a step of anchoring the two ends (20) of each tensioning element (18) by means of one anchoring element (19); and - a step of fixing the two ends (20) of each tensioning element (18) to the respective anchoring element (19) by means of one fixing element (21).

[0085] The method further comprises a step of reducing the post-tensioning load of the tower (1) with respect to the nominal load before the step of arranging the at least one reinforcing element (2, 3), and a step of restoring the post-tensioning load of the tower (1) to the nominal load after the step of arranging the at least one reinforcing element (2, 3).

Claims

1. Reinforcement system for a tower (1) of a wind power generator, the tower (1) comprising at least a first concrete element (10, 11); and wherein the reinforcement system comprising: at least one reinforcing element (2, 3) which, in use, at least partially surrounds the first concrete element (10, 11), wherein the at least one reinforcing element (2, 3) is configured to exert a radial compression force on at least a portion of the first concrete element (10, 11).

2. The reinforcement system of claim 1, wherein, The at least one reinforcing element (2, 3) at least partially surrounds the first concrete element (10, 11) in use at least in a circumferential direction.

3. The reinforcement system of claim 2, wherein, The at least one reinforcing element (2, 3) comprises at least a substantially cylindrical or frustoconical wall (2) which, in use, at least partially surrounds the first concrete element (10, 11).

4. The reinforcement system of claim 3, wherein, The cylindrical or frustoconical wall (2) extends in use along a first length in a vertical direction of the at least a portion of the first concrete element (10, 11).

5. The reinforcement system according to any one of claims 2 to 4, wherein, The at least one reinforcing element (2, 3) comprises at least two sectors (2') which, in use, at least partially surround the first concrete element (10, 11) in at least a circumferential direction.

6. Reinforcement system according to claim 5, further comprising attachment means (14, 15) configured to attach the at least two sectors (2') of the at least one reinforcing element (2, 3), wherein, Each of the at least two sectors (2') comprises a first flange (16), wherein the attachment means (14, 15) are attached to the first flange.

7. The reinforcement system of claim 6, wherein, Each of the at least two sectors (2') further comprises a brace (17) configured to reinforce the attachment between the at least two sectors (2').

8. Reinforcement system according to any one of the preceding claims, further comprising a temporary or permanent element (13) configured to take up the at least one reinforcing element (2, 3) in a temporary or permanent manner, respectively.

9. Reinforcement system according to any of the preceding claims, wherein, The at least one reinforcing element (2, 3) at least partially embraces the first concrete element (10, 11) in use.

10. Reinforcement system according to any one of claims 1 to 8, further comprising a non-shrinkage material (6) arranged in a first gap (5) which, in use, extends at least between the at least one reinforcing element (2, 3) and the first concrete element (10, 11).

11. Reinforcement system according to any one of claims 1 to 10, further comprising a fixing device configured to at least partially fix the at least one reinforcing element (2, 3) to the first concrete element (10, 11).

12. Reinforcement system according to any one of the preceding claims, further comprising a tensioning system configured to exert a radial compression force on the at least one reinforcing element (2, 3).

13. The reinforcement system of claim 12, wherein, The tensioning system comprises: at least one tensioning element (18) having two ends (20); at least one anchoring element (19) configured to receive at least one of the two ends (20) of the tensioning element; and at least one anchoring element (19) configured to receive at least one of the two ends (20) of the tensioning element; and - at least one fixing element (21) configured to fix the at least one of the two end portions (20) of the tensioning element (18) to the at least one anchoring element (19).

14. The reinforcement system of claims 6 and 13, wherein, The first flange (16) is configured to fix the position of the at least one tensioning element (18) at a first height in the vertical direction of the at least one reinforcing element (2, 3), wherein each first flange (16) comprises at least one opening (7) through which the at least one tensioning element (18) passes.

15. Reinforcement system according to any of the preceding claims, comprising a plurality of reinforcing elements (2, 3) which, in use, are adjacently arranged in the vertical direction around at least the first concrete element (10, 11).

16. Reinforcement system according to any of the preceding claims, wherein, The at least one reinforcing element (2, 3) surrounds, in use, at least the first concrete element (10, 11) with a length in the vertical direction of between 0.4 and 2 meters.

17. A tower (1) of a wind power generator comprising at least a first concrete element (10, 11) and at least one reinforcement system according to any of the preceding claims, which at least partially surrounds the first concrete element (10, 11).

18. A tower (1) for a wind power generator according to claim 17, wherein At least one reinforcing element (2, 3) of the at least one reinforcement system covers at least a first tower surface (4) of an area subject to critical loads or damages.

19. A tower (1) for a wind power generator according to any of claims 17 or 18, wherein The first concrete element (10) is a first concrete section (10) of the tower (1).

20. A tower (1) for a wind power generator according to claim 19, wherein The tower (1) further comprises a second concrete section (10’) and a horizontal joint (12) arranged between the first concrete section (10) and the second concrete section (10’), wherein the at least one reinforcing element (2, 3) at least partially surrounds the horizontal joint (12) and, optionally, at least partially surrounds the second concrete section (10’).

21. A tower (1) for a wind power generator according to any of claims 17 or 18, wherein The tower further comprises an adapter (40) and at least a first steel section (30), wherein the first concrete element (11) is a concrete transition element (11) which is part of the adapter (40).

22. A tower (1) for a wind power generator according to claim 21, wherein The tower (1) further comprises a first concrete section (10”) and a horizontal joint (12) arranged between the adapter (40) and the first concrete section (10”), wherein the at least one reinforcing element (2, 3) at least partially surrounds the horizontal joint (12) and, optionally, at least partially surrounds the first concrete section (10”).

23. Tower (1) of a wind power generator according to any of claims 17 to 22, comprising at least two reinforcement systems according to any of claims 1 to 16, which are arranged adjacent or spaced apart along a first length in the vertical direction of at least the first concrete element (10, 11).

24. The tower (1) of a wind power generator according to claim 20 or 22, comprising at least two reinforcement systems according to any one of claims 1 to 16, the reinforcement systems being at least a first reinforcement system and at least a second reinforcement system, wherein, The first reinforcement system is a reinforcement system at least partially surrounding the first concrete element (10, 11) and the second reinforcement system surrounds the second concrete segment (10') or the first concrete segment (10'') respectively.

25. A method of reinforcing a tower (1) of a wind power generator, the tower (1) comprising at least a first concrete element (10, 11); wherein, The method comprises: - a step of placing at least one reinforcing element (2, 3) at least partially surrounding the first concrete element (10, 11) such that the at least one reinforcing element exerts a radial compression force on at least a portion of the first concrete element (10, 11).

26. The method of claim 25, wherein, The step of placing at least one reinforcing element (2, 3) at least partially surrounding the first concrete element (10, 11) is performed by placing the at least one reinforcing element (2, 3) at least partially surrounding the first concrete element (10, 11) at least in a circumferential direction, wherein at least a substantially cylindrical or frustoconical wall (2) is placed at least partially surrounding the first concrete element (10, 11), at least the substantially cylindrical or frustoconical wall extending along a first length in a vertical direction of at least a portion of the first concrete element (10, 11), wherein the at least one substantially cylindrical or frustoconical wall (2) comprises at least two sectors (2') attached to at least partially embrace the first concrete element (10, 11) at least in a circumferential direction, the method further comprising a step of tensioning the at least one reinforcing element (2, 3) to exert a radial compression force on the at least one reinforcing element (2, 3), wherein the step of tensioning further comprises: - a step of arranging at least one tensioning element (18) having two ends (20) and surrounding at least a portion of the at least one reinforcing element; - a step of anchoring at least one of the two ends (20) of the at least one tensioning element (18); and - a step of fixing the at least one of the two ends (20) of the tensioning element (18) to the at least one anchoring element (19).

27. The method of any one of claims 25 or 26, wherein, The step of placing at least one reinforcing element (2, 3) further comprises a step of leaving a first gap (5) between the at least one reinforcing element (2, 3) and the first concrete element (10, 11) and a step of filling the first gap (5) with a non-shrinkage material (6).

28. The method of any of claims 25-27, further comprising: Before the step of placing at least one reinforcing element (2, 3), a step of reducing a post-tensioning load of the tower (1) relative to a nominal load.

29. The method of claim 28, further comprising: After the step of placing at least one reinforcing element (2, 3), a step of restoring the post-tensioning load of the tower (1) to the nominal load.

30. The method of any of claims 25-29, further comprising: Before the step of placing at least one reinforcing element (2, 3), a step of sealing at least one crack of the first concrete element (10, 11).

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