Dongfang’s 18 MW turbine is truly massive, with a rotor diameter of 260 meters and blades that sweep across an area of 53,000 square meters. This enormous size allows it to produce an astounding 72 GWh of electricity each year, enough to power 36,000 homes. The power output of this offshore wind turbine is unparalleled and demonstrates the incredible potential of large-scale renewable energy.
Advanced features
The turbine features a fully integrated medium-speed drivetrain and an 18.X MW permanent magnet semi-direct drive generator. Developed in-house by DEC, this generator minimizes vibration and noise while maintaining a consistent temperature. These characteristics improve the turbine’s efficiency and reliability.
The turbine’s transmission system is also noteworthy. It has a modular design that integrates the shaft system, gearbox, and generator. This integration improves the efficiency of power transmission and ensures the turbine adapts well to the electrical grid, making it a reliable choice for large-scale wind farms.
Environmental and economic benefits
One of the most significant advantages of Dongfang’s 18 MW turbine is its environmental impact. By generating such a large amount of electricity, a single turbine can avoid the use of over 22,000 tons of coal annually, reducing carbon dioxide emissions by more than 59,000 tons each year. This contributes substantially to efforts to combat climate change.
Economically, the turbine’s large capacity reduces the number of turbines needed for a wind farm. Fewer turbines mean lower construction, operation, and maintenance costs, making large-scale wind projects more financially viable.
Leading the industry
Dongfang’s achievement positions the company and China as leaders in the global renewable energy sector. This 18 MW turbine surpasses the previous record held by China Three Gorges Corporation and Ming Yang Smart Energy, who installed 16 MW turbines.
In recent years, DEC has been at the forefront of this progress. In 2020, it installed China’s first 10 MW wind turbine and followed it up with a 13 MW typhoon-resistant model two years later. Other Chinese companies, such as China Three Gorges, Goldwind, and Mingyang Smart Energy, have also made significant progress, but Dongfang’s latest turbine sets a new standard.
