Exhibitors were unfortunately unable to participate in the digital version of WindEnergy Hamburg this year after all. To ensure that SKF Wind’s exciting showcase is not wasted, this article shares some insights into the technologies and data-driven processes which are shaping the industry. How are new technologies and computer-aided processes influencing the industry?

The digital exhibitor platform at WindEnergy Hamburg was unfortunately cancelled at short notice this year. For all parties still interested in accessing the exciting content from SKF, we are writing up the work that would have been showcased in real time at the trade fair. In this, the first article of a two-part series, the focus is on the topic of sustainability. How can wind turbines become more environmentally friendly?

The production of blue hydrogen has always been cheaper than its green counterpart. But this is set to change by 2030 – marking a triumph for the wind industry. But what exactly is changing? And what does that for wind farm operators?

As a general rule: a taller turbine catches more wind and generates more power. That said, transporting such vast structures to offshore locations is no mean feat, especially given a lack of vessels to carry out the job. This is a joint-sector issue that, until now, remained unsolved.

3D printing is well established in many industries. It provides prosthetics and implants for medical use, is revolutionizing lightweight construction in the aerospace industry, and is used in mechanical engineering. Now, a new development shows how the wind industry could soon benefit from additive manufacturing as well.

Previously, SKF announced that they had acquired Presenso Ltd. – a company that specializes in artificial intelligence (AI). Adopting data-driven technology presents wind farm operators and OEMs with plenty of opportunity to boost efficiency and reduce costs. So, how does this work in practice?

Wind energy is currently in competition with other electricity sources – both renewable and non-renewable – to establish itself as the world’s leading power source. Only by offering cost-effective, reliable energy will this goal be realized. Increasing power density may give the sector a competitive edge.

Global developments have strengthened the business case for AI-driven industrial analytics in wind farms. Predictive maintenance helps wind energy businesses to operate self-sufficiently, extend asset health and lifespans, reduce O&M costs, and better protect repair crews.

Wind turbines are usually designed to operate at high wind speeds to produce as much power as possible. But in certain regions, such as inland sites in South East Asia, wind speeds are lower – making conventional turbine models unviable. This is where innovative wind turbine design comes into play.