Wind innovations – Part 1 – Three wind technologies you should know about
As wind energy continues to be one of the fastest growing renewable energy sources worldwide, the possibilities in that area are endless. Many creative thinkers are coming up with various alternative innovations that could turn the tide.
Firmly anchored – How are wind turbines anchored to the seabed?
Offshore turbines have to deal with a lot of stress – the strong sea winds, waves crashing against the turbine shaft, and the fact that it has to reach the ground of the ocean to be constructed. It is vital for a wind turbine to have a strong foundation so that it can withstand all these stressors. The question is, how?
Ceramic outperforms steel – Clever material combinations for robust bearing solutions
Bearings often operate under challenging applicational conditions. Contamination and electrical erosion can cause bearings to fail quickly — if they aren’t engineered accordingly.
Strong and robust – Putting tailored heat-treated gearbox bearings to the test
Robust bearings are the key to a long-lasting wind turbine. To evaluate their surface and subsurface robustness and minimize failures, SKF has further developed the SKF Generalized Bearing Life Model (GBLM). During the "Bearing World by FVA" conference, the company presented its application of the SKF DuraPro for wind turbine gearboxes.
Africa’s huge wind potential – Electricity shortage in Africa: Gone with the wind?
In many parts of Africa, people still live without access to electricity. Although recent studies have shown the potential for renewable energy on the continent, electrification is proving to be challenging. In remote regions especially, the infrastructure is lacking.
Islands in the (wind) stream – How islands are reforming their power production
Inhabitants of small islands are having a hard time meeting their power needs, as redirecting energy from the mainland is only possible using expensive submarine cables. Yet more and more islands are now home to wind farms. Winds, after all, tend to be strong and steady at sea. But it's not quite as simple as it sounds.
100% recyclable – just a dream? – What’s new in recycling worn components in the wind industry?
Every part of a wind turbine is recyclable... almost. One of the few components that pose a problem are rotor blades. To help tackle the issue, researchers from companies all over the world are trying to find a solution, and it might not be so long until they do. On top of that, it could be that other industries benefit too.
New heights for German hydrogen – How northwest Germany scores big wins with hydrogen
The German government’s National Hydrogen Strategy highlights the significance of hydrogen in the energy transition. This scheme has been bolstered by a major project in the north of the country, which also underlines the importance of close cooperation between wind farm operators and hydrogen producers.
Inspecto-drones – How can drones support turbine maintenance?
Drones are fast, agile, and make light work of reaching high altitudes. But that doesn't necessarily mean they will revolutionize wind turbine maintenance overnight. Incidentally, we are still waiting for the big drone breakthrough in the industry. When is it going to happen?
