SKF Wind Farm Management Conference 2017 – Highlights, presentations, results, and more
The SKF Wind Farm Management Conference is an annual event where key industry leaders and experts in wind turbine operations and maintenance (O&M) get together to network and share insights and experience. Here is a selection of the top highlights from the 2017 conference.
Better with age? – Older turbines present a valuable opportunity
A large number of wind turbines have been in operation for many years, leading to inevitable wear. At face value, this may be considered problematic – but on closer inspection, aging wind turbines could present a world of opportunity.
Don’t throw caution to the wind – Taking a statistical approach to wind turbine O&M
Operation and maintenance (O&M) costs represent a large portion of expenditure for wind farm operators. Failure to implement an effective strategy may result in increased costs or machinery failure. For this reason, it is important to take a statistical approach.
Wind O&M market set to soar – Findings from the 2017 Service Market Survey
The experts have spoken: A survey carried out at the 2017 SKF Wind Farm Management Conference has indicated that the global wind operations and maintenance (O&M) market is expected to grow by around 15% by 2020. Read on to discover what the findings of the poll could mean for the wind industry.
Fighting against the current – Protecting bearings from electrical erosion
Electrical erosion is a common cause of bearing failure – something that can lead to complications for wind farm operators, such as downtime or reduced productivity. However, there is a cost-effective solution to this. SKF collaborated with a wind turbine generator manufacturer to resolve the issue.
Up to the test? – New test center for wind turbine main bearings
In order for a wind turbine bearing to be as effective and durable as possible, it must be tested thoroughly. This is not always an easy task, with few facilities having the capabilities to put large-size bearings through their paces. SKF recently built and opened the world’s most powerful test center for this purpose.
Back in action – Remanufacturing old gearboxes
As a wind turbine gearbox reaches the end of its life, operators have a decision to make: dispose of it in a scrap yard or have it remanufactured. SKF provides wind farm operators the opportunity to have their deteriorated gearboxes repaired, or even upgraded – maximizing availability and reducing lifecycle costs.
A smooth operation – The importance of lubrication in turbine bearings
Wind turbines are among the most reliable of power-generating technologies. When they do break down, however, it is often due to poor lubrication of the gearbox bearings. Proper lubrication can keep a turbine operating reliably and efficiently. Finding the right oil – and system with which to apply it – is vital.
Bearing remanufacturing – Reducing costs by refurbishing old bearings
Not all old parts have to be replaced. SKF bearing remanufacturing services can extend service life – so you can reduce lifecycle costs and environmental impact.
