Ice sensors for wind turbines

A review of ice sensor technology and the challenges for icing detection for wind turbines was performed. A total of 29 different methods for detection of icing were found, and these were then compared with a list of some basic requirements for an icing sensor for wind turbine applications. No reports of ice sensors performing satisfactorily were found, but the sensing methods using infrared spectroscopy through fiber optic cables, a flexible resonating diaphragm, ultrasound from inside the blade or a capacitance, inductance or impedance based sensor seem best suited for wind turbine icing detection.