The part of IEC 61400, which is a Technical Specification, sets out minimum requirements to the use of probabilistic design measures in order to ensure the structural and mechanical integrity of wind turbines. The document is based on the general approach in ISO 2394, which also forms the basis for IEC 61400‑1. In 61400-1, the design verification approach is based on deterministic design using safety factors. However, edition 4 of IEC 61400‑1:2019 opens for introduction of probabilistic design in an informative annex specifying requirements to the calibration of structural material safety factors and structural design assisted by testing. IEC 61400‑1 is the governing standard. This document provides appropriate methodologies and requirements for full probabilistic design by taking into account specific uncertainties on not only material properties but also on environmental conditions, design models and the degree of validation. This document also provides provisions for semi-probabilistic design, including reliability-based calibration of partial safety factors and assessment of existing wind turbines. The probabilistic methods in this document are formulated generically and can be applied to structural and mechanical failure modes where a limit state equation can be formulated.
