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.
Black oxide bearings – Improve wind turbine reliability and performance
Operation and maintenance (O&M) costs can constitute up to 25% of a turbine’s levelized energy cost over its lifetime. Technology that helps reduce maintenance and downtime is therefore crucial. In the previous article of this two-part series, we examined four of the most common bearing failure modes. This time, we will look at black oxidation – an effective solution to improve operational reliability.
White etching cracks examined – Facing the challenge of premature bearing failure
White etching cracks are a symptom of bearing failure. SKF researchers and application engineers discuss how to tackle the challenges and reduce the risk of this failure mode.
Machine meteorology – Big data #2: Boosting output with artificial intelligence
Big data is enhancing operations and maintenance (O&M) in the wind power industry. By harnessing insights gleaned from this explosion of information, companies optimize turbines to reduce costs and increase efficiency. Yet as effective as statistical models are, the intermittency of wind is inescapable. This calls for a solution that allows turbines to learn from and adapt to changing conditions autonomously.
HRS split seals from SKF – How to install HRS split seals in wind turbines
HRS seals from SKF are specially designed to cope with the harsh conditions that wind turbine main shafts face. They can help reduce the risks of lubrication or contaminant-related bearings failures and their consequences, such as production downtime and repair costs. This step-by-step guide shows you how to install them.
Turbine insights from afar – Effective remote monitoring solutions
Get the most out of your wind turbine data. Find out how SKF WindCon, SKF @ptitude Observer, and SKF Remote Diagnostic Centres help you prevent downtime, improve maintenance planning, and reduce operating costs.