The advantages of wind are clear: it is an inexhaustible and environmentally friendly energy source. Furthermore, the technology to harness its power is already well established. However, although wind is a proven eco-efficient energy source, why is it struggling to achieve status as a cost-efficient one?

Maintaining wind turbine reliability is one of the main challenges facing the industry. Without correct lubrication for key components, there is always the risk that operation could grind to a halt. Fortunately, there are various options available to help avoid this.

In July 2017, the Sven Wingquist Test Center was opened in Schweinfurt, Germany. The aim of this project was to improve current testing software and standards and to develop more reliable large-size bearings. The facility is up and running and providing the wind power industry with a unique service.

An increasingly volatile climate and powerful winds are an endurance test not only for people, but also for machines. But what would appear to be a disadvantage could actually be a significant opportunity for an entire industry – at the very least for those whose wind turbines can withstand extreme conditions.

Wind energy is becoming increasingly important to our society. As a result, the industry is changing – and so is the market and the opportunities that it presents. We take a closer look at emerging market trends in wind energy and what implications these might have.

Save the date: On September 27–28, 2017, the Quo Vadis conference will be taking place in London. At the event, SKF will give a presentation to explain how optimized spherical roller bearings for wind turbine rotors benefit the industry.

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.

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.

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.